This season has been such a great deep dive into characters so far. This episode, looking at Marcus going to Copenhagen, warmed my heart immensely. We all know he is a great guy, but adding the additional context by showing him with his mom, helping a man who has fallen, and sending pictures to people at home characterizes how much he loves his family and his home. Will Poulter is also a welcome addition to this episode as the chef tasked with teaching Marcus how to become better. The calm, smooth pacing of the episode is perfect for Marcus. It's also wild Ramy Youssef directed, what a great surprise at the end credits!
14 Reviews
Endearing episode that gives Marcus his shine.
bayleykedar6 July 2023
Following on from Syd's episode, this outing focuses on Marcus and his experience in Copenhagen, as he is trained by guest Will Poulter in his cameo appearance.
A conversation between the pair at the halfway mark depicts a brief moment of connection; these two men are from vastly different walks of life, tied together by the struggle of modern living, surviving within the culinary world, coping with illness, loss and various family issues. It's a nice moment, one that feels real, thoughtful and endearing. It's also what I've liked the most about 'The Bear' so far in its second season, it's delivering these heartwarming moments frequently throughout each and every episode.
That's a microcosm for the episode as a whole. Marcus is given his time to shine; he is one of the most likeable characters on television currently. The cinematography is gorgeous, and various montages follow on from those prevalent within the previous Syd-focused episode, however, there's further dialogue and a deeper focus on Marcus' personal life, his mother's health, which take this outing up a notch.
I think Season 2 of 'The Bear' is taking what made Season 1 so special, turning it up to 100 and thoroughly outclassing it on a episode-by-episode basis. That's not an easy feat, but if this quality continues then I think the show may just pull it off.
A conversation between the pair at the halfway mark depicts a brief moment of connection; these two men are from vastly different walks of life, tied together by the struggle of modern living, surviving within the culinary world, coping with illness, loss and various family issues. It's a nice moment, one that feels real, thoughtful and endearing. It's also what I've liked the most about 'The Bear' so far in its second season, it's delivering these heartwarming moments frequently throughout each and every episode.
That's a microcosm for the episode as a whole. Marcus is given his time to shine; he is one of the most likeable characters on television currently. The cinematography is gorgeous, and various montages follow on from those prevalent within the previous Syd-focused episode, however, there's further dialogue and a deeper focus on Marcus' personal life, his mother's health, which take this outing up a notch.
I think Season 2 of 'The Bear' is taking what made Season 1 so special, turning it up to 100 and thoroughly outclassing it on a episode-by-episode basis. That's not an easy feat, but if this quality continues then I think the show may just pull it off.
TV just doesn't get any better than this.
GeoffreyAustinNewland17 July 2023
What an episode...television just doesn't get any better than this. The rhythm, the cinematography, the sensitivity, the music, the location (a character in itself), the direction, the depth of character, the acting, the hug - woah...Tears in my eyes in multiple moments.
As an actor I must congratulate Will Poulter on his performance - beautifully balanced, subtle, truthful, understated, the perfect dish - bravo.
Only complaint: why don't we get more TV like this!?
The Bear is such a joy and delivers on every level, I didn't know how they could possibly improve upon season 1 and yet somehow they've made that feel like an amuse bouche.
Can't recommend this series and this episode highly enough.
As an actor I must congratulate Will Poulter on his performance - beautifully balanced, subtle, truthful, understated, the perfect dish - bravo.
Only complaint: why don't we get more TV like this!?
The Bear is such a joy and delivers on every level, I didn't know how they could possibly improve upon season 1 and yet somehow they've made that feel like an amuse bouche.
Can't recommend this series and this episode highly enough.
Wonderful, heartwarming episode of tv
jakecrowley199124 June 2023
I loved every moment of that episode. It was so calming and heartwarming. Marcus is a fantastic character and someone you can't help but want the best for. His phone calls and messages back to his sick mother just hit so hard. The episode was shot beautifully and Will Poulter just topped it off with a masterclass in acting. I could have watched that episode for at least another hour! I think they say, chef's kiss..
This show seems to go from strength to strength and it's easily up there with my favourites ever. It brings a humanity to tv that I rarely feel when I'm watching the shows made today.
This show seems to go from strength to strength and it's easily up there with my favourites ever. It brings a humanity to tv that I rarely feel when I'm watching the shows made today.
A love letter to life
goldenlampshade9 August 2023
This episode is ******* beautiful. Simple is simple does. Beautiful music, heartwarming moments, and spectacular writing. 10 out of 10. A love letter to life. I have to have more characters so here's Letters to a Young Poet by Ranier Maria Rilke:
It is also good to love: because love is difficult. For one human being to love another human being: that is perhaps the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us, the ultimate task, the final test and proof, the work for which all other work is merely preparation. That is why young people, who are beginners in everything, are not yet capable of love: it is something they must learn. With their whole being, with all their forces, gathered around their solitary, anxious, upward-beating heart, they must learn to love. But learning-time is always a long, secluded time ahead and far on into life, is-; solitude, a heightened and deepened kind of aloneness for the person who loves. Loving does not at first mean merging, surrendering, and uniting with another person (for what would a union be of two people who are unclarified, unfinished, and still incoherent-?), it is a high inducement for the individual to ripen, to become something in himself, to become world, to become world in himself for the sake of another person; it is a great, demanding claim on him, something that chooses him and calls him to vast distances. Only in this sense, as the task of working on them- selves ("to hearken and to hammer day and night"), may young people use the love that is given to them. Merging and surrendering and every kind of com- munion is not for them (who must still, for a long, long time, save and gather themselves); it is the ultimate, is perhaps that for which human lives are as yet barely large enough.
It is also good to love: because love is difficult. For one human being to love another human being: that is perhaps the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us, the ultimate task, the final test and proof, the work for which all other work is merely preparation. That is why young people, who are beginners in everything, are not yet capable of love: it is something they must learn. With their whole being, with all their forces, gathered around their solitary, anxious, upward-beating heart, they must learn to love. But learning-time is always a long, secluded time ahead and far on into life, is-; solitude, a heightened and deepened kind of aloneness for the person who loves. Loving does not at first mean merging, surrendering, and uniting with another person (for what would a union be of two people who are unclarified, unfinished, and still incoherent-?), it is a high inducement for the individual to ripen, to become something in himself, to become world, to become world in himself for the sake of another person; it is a great, demanding claim on him, something that chooses him and calls him to vast distances. Only in this sense, as the task of working on them- selves ("to hearken and to hammer day and night"), may young people use the love that is given to them. Merging and surrendering and every kind of com- munion is not for them (who must still, for a long, long time, save and gather themselves); it is the ultimate, is perhaps that for which human lives are as yet barely large enough.
Marcus has his own episode!
jam473 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I like that in season two, The Bear has allowed us to explore the backstories and growth of individual supporting characters with dedicated episodes. Episode four, Honeydew, gives us the chance to follow Marcus, as he travels to Denmark to learn from a well known pastry chef through Carmy's contacts. The previous episode focused on Sydney, her relationship with her father, and her adventure visiting various restaurants in Chicago to reset her palate and generate ideas. The direction so far in season two has been more enjoyable for me so far compared to season one, which was always intense. Although chaos is still present while they remodel the restaurant, this season has resonated more with me because of the deeper dives into character development, personal growth, and life itself.
Wonderful television
pmitchell-1096624 July 2023
Just a beautiful piece of work, a joy from start to finish. It's uncharacteristically gentle and contemplative for The Bear, a study of character and also a celebration of the joy and satisfaction of craft and creation. As with any great dish the ingredients are great - one of the series' most loveable characters in Marcus, the beauty of Copenhagen, a fine guest performance by Will Poulter and lots and lots of beautiful looking desserts and pastries - but the way they are put together is just wonderful. It reminded me of the wonderful episode in the second series of Master of None where Dev learns to make pasta in Modena and that is high praise.
Marcus's journey
Mesina0221 August 2023
Its been made clear that this season was going to take a different approach. While the ultimate goal is the opening of the restaurant it also prioritizes on character growth and I think that is truly shown here.
I really liked how Marcus was the main focus here. We get to know more about his passion but also about his personal life. He's always been a character that hasn't really been showcased too much but this episode certainly changed that.
He has always been an interesting character to me because he's such a genuine person who is not as chaotic compared to the rest of the crew. Giving him his own episode where he ventures on a journey of discovery is something that was needed from him.
Also the addition of Will Poulter was quite a surprise and it definitely gave this episode a massive boost.
I really liked how Marcus was the main focus here. We get to know more about his passion but also about his personal life. He's always been a character that hasn't really been showcased too much but this episode certainly changed that.
He has always been an interesting character to me because he's such a genuine person who is not as chaotic compared to the rest of the crew. Giving him his own episode where he ventures on a journey of discovery is something that was needed from him.
Also the addition of Will Poulter was quite a surprise and it definitely gave this episode a massive boost.
As someone from Denmark.. Incredible episode!!
and_mikkelsen10 January 2024
Wow! This episode was truely something else! Suddenly the vibe changed as Marcus went on this beautifull and inspirering journey of culinary discovery!
Since I am from Denmark and live close to Copenhagen i have to praise the episode for capturering the beauty and charm of the danish capital! It is clear the people behind the show has always had a thing for Copenhagen since it is broad up numerous times, and now they get to show it in this episode!
Will Poulter also completely steals the show as Luca! He gives of such a deep and heartwarming performance and he just feels dedicated to a point where you can feel his passion just by looking at him!
The food alomg with the shots of Copenhagen makes for a visually pleasing episode with a lot of heart!
Since I am from Denmark and live close to Copenhagen i have to praise the episode for capturering the beauty and charm of the danish capital! It is clear the people behind the show has always had a thing for Copenhagen since it is broad up numerous times, and now they get to show it in this episode!
Will Poulter also completely steals the show as Luca! He gives of such a deep and heartwarming performance and he just feels dedicated to a point where you can feel his passion just by looking at him!
The food alomg with the shots of Copenhagen makes for a visually pleasing episode with a lot of heart!
Marcus and his Copenhagen journey
richardguion10 October 2023
I was really intrigued by Marcus' story arc in season one, as he leveled up his game and became more serious about his craft. And I was pleased to see that the writers did develop this further in season two, by sending Marcus to study in Copenhagen. You can almost feel Marcus' consciousness expanding as he spends time there, not only through cooking but exploring the city. Will Poulter has a dynamite role as Luca, the more experienced chef who passes on his knowledge to Marcus. Perhaps one of the best performances I've ever seen from Poulter; he put a lot into this role. Now I want to go to Copenhagen and eat pastries!
Transformation of life
brianmail-2057718 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I don't know why I'm crying, it might just be the beautiful moments of life displayed in this episode. The growth of a person, seeing genuine passion for what you do, finding that passion, being nervous but overcoming. This episode has it all. It also have the element of surprise, as this episode is nothing like any of the others. As a viewer you are transported to a different place. The travel to another country is not only a travel in itself, but also a transformation for the character. Leaving his zone of comfort, only to rediscovering himself and a new more well-equipped zone. This season is truly something else.
Where's the cat?
Trey_Trebuchet15 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
It was simply phenomenal.
Seriously what the heck? This came out of nowhere. I love Marcus, so I was really digging the episode before coming to the realization that he'd be the center and focal point, but it's such a great character piece. We learn so much about him in just half an hour.
He's so loving and affirming of everyone, from his grandmother to his boss (you know, not always the nicest guy in the kitchen) to this Denmark chef who he barely even knows (at first). I feel like we really got the best feel for the character here, and I already loved him.
Will Poulter also turns in a really solid performance as this chef from a different childhood and country. I adored the relationship he had with Marcus here. His line "I don't know, ask me tomorrow" really hit home. I love that he didn't end up being some tight*** too. They could have taken that strict, abusive boss route, but we instead got a really genuine guy who is simply doing what he loves. The last conversation he has with Marcus is gonna stick with me for a while.
I like the scene with the biker as well. Really heartwarming, believable stuff.
One of the best in the series for SURE.
Seriously what the heck? This came out of nowhere. I love Marcus, so I was really digging the episode before coming to the realization that he'd be the center and focal point, but it's such a great character piece. We learn so much about him in just half an hour.
He's so loving and affirming of everyone, from his grandmother to his boss (you know, not always the nicest guy in the kitchen) to this Denmark chef who he barely even knows (at first). I feel like we really got the best feel for the character here, and I already loved him.
Will Poulter also turns in a really solid performance as this chef from a different childhood and country. I adored the relationship he had with Marcus here. His line "I don't know, ask me tomorrow" really hit home. I love that he didn't end up being some tight*** too. They could have taken that strict, abusive boss route, but we instead got a really genuine guy who is simply doing what he loves. The last conversation he has with Marcus is gonna stick with me for a while.
I like the scene with the biker as well. Really heartwarming, believable stuff.
One of the best in the series for SURE.
Inconsistencies
rich-palmer-18 February 2024
For a restaurant that is struggling with time and money ahead of a major remodel and rebranding, how do they have the time and money to send two staff to culinary school and one to Copenhagen to learn pastry making? This is just one example of the many inconsistencies that drag down this show.
Another from Season 1 was the ridiculousness of a sandwich shop that did not do online orders previously and did not promote the service suddenly getting an avalanche of online orders on their first day.
Also, what beef shop would spend hours making its own beef from scratch? Sandwich shops buy it from a meat provider. They would have to charge $30 a sandwich to break even.
Another from Season 1 was the ridiculousness of a sandwich shop that did not do online orders previously and did not promote the service suddenly getting an avalanche of online orders on their first day.
Also, what beef shop would spend hours making its own beef from scratch? Sandwich shops buy it from a meat provider. They would have to charge $30 a sandwich to break even.
Episode 204
bobcobb30114 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Honeydew was an episode that definitely took a different kind of approach to The Bear and put Marcus, a seemingly uninteresting and uninspiring background character, to the forefront of things.
He went to Denmark in search of learning some new desserts that the restaurant desperately needs (along with a plethora of other things). It did get a little bit too in the weeds, but I think that is one of the things that people love about The Bear that they could have a long scene about playing a tiny piece in the right spot in a very tiny pudding goop. Not many other kinds of shows out there could pull that off.
He went to Denmark in search of learning some new desserts that the restaurant desperately needs (along with a plethora of other things). It did get a little bit too in the weeds, but I think that is one of the things that people love about The Bear that they could have a long scene about playing a tiny piece in the right spot in a very tiny pudding goop. Not many other kinds of shows out there could pull that off.
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