FX Series The Bear captures the hectic, fast paced nature of one of the most volatile industries in business, restaurants. Without giving away too many details for those who haven’t watched, the quick summary of the show can be whittled down to how family interactions, or the lack of, shape the behaviors of the members creating both negative and positive qualities in how those family members engage within and outside of the family. This explanation could describe every television show ever created around familial structures, from crime dramas to soap operas.
The Bear is labeled as comedy but is best positioned as a therapeutic, anxiety filled multi-hero’s journey (since many episodes focus on providing background on each character) instead of a sitcom. At an average length of 30 minutes, the show may sit in that pocket of traditional television comedies, but the storytelling generates tension and uneasiness. There are comedic aspects in the character engagements and certain moments are hilarious, but with two seasons in The Bear is easily one of the greatest shows to ever be created and Season 2 Episode 7 Forks is a Masterclass of television.
One of the characters, Richie (played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach), in episode 7 creates one of the most important and amazing character developments in film. The episode moves slowly into what feels like a situation witnessed in other shows, but the camera work, the acting, enhances the recognition of purpose. The clip below sets the scene but doesn’t capture the overwhelming feeling of thankfulness, and gratitude the viewer is given. People in every walk of life should watch Fork, even if they don’t watch the rest of the show. It is honestly a lifechanging work of art.
Sneaker Connection
In a recent post I discussed Vans:
How the Vans AVE Represents a Business Filled with Overlooked Opportunities
In this post I stated that the brand needed to find its WHY. If I’m consulting the company, I bring the marketing, sales and design teams together to watch this episode of The Bear. In 30 minutes, it explains the importance of purpose and how having a clear vision of providing for the consumer creates long-term success. Minutia matters.
