The Bear (TV Series) Forks (2023) User Reviews

Incredible

[sweetcypress777 · 10/10 · 25 June 2023]

I was hoping for something like this for Richie, but never expected it to be delivered in such an exquisite story. I always thought Richie was good with people and wondered why they didn't make better use of his relationships with the customers... and then this happens. I actually sobbed this episode because I feel this way about hospitality and creating beautiful and welcoming food and experiences.

My father said to me once at a Taco Bell drive thru how wonderful it would be to have that job and I said "why?!?" His reply was how great it would be to make people happy bringing them food. It changed the way I thought about the service industry in all it's forms and gave me an appreciation I never lost.

I sobbed because I've been in a car accident that took my ability away to create those experiences and so to have the characters in this episode explain it and embody it so well and give Richie a sense of purpose and pride and competence was so beautiful.

And I won't spoil it, but the ending message... Yes! What a freaking reveal!!

Unexpected

[nategerard77 · 10/10 · 29 June 2023]

I don't say unexpected because I thought it wouldn't be good. I say unexpected because this episode made me think about aspects of life and professionalism that this show hadn't touched on yet for me.

Being in a service industry myself it was magical to see the pride in giving an extraordinary experience to people and Ritchie catching the satisfaction of a job very well done.

The exploration of why Ritchie's lack of self confidence has made him the way he is and his choice to change should win him more fans including me.

After the craziness of the last episode I really needed this. So far my favorite of the second season.

one of the greatest redemption arcs in tv

[Mesina02 · 10/10 · 13 September 2023]

I implore more shows to take this episode as an example of how to grow a character. Towards this point in the season, Richie has been a backdrop for a majority of the episodes.

Although it may seem like a critique considering the fact that he is one of the main characters it actually quite suits him because we know that Richie doesn't necessarily have any skills to benefit the crew, that's why he's always been in the background trying to make himself apart of the team.

That part of Richie is what made this episode one of the best in the show. It's a great character study looking into a person that wants to find purpose and this episode captures that idea perfectly well.

Every second counts

[Slater_isntreal · 10/10 · 26 June 2023]

This episode made me so happy and proud of Richie, Ebon Moss-Bachrach was amazing in this episode, I was really worried Richie would end up being the last remnants of the "original beef" and end up being replaced but this episode brought my faith back into the new restaurant and Richie's placement in kitchen. The wonderful Olivia Coleman never fails to amaze in every aspect and finding out she was the notorious chef Terry was a cherry on top, Also in ep.4(Honeydew) when Luka(Will Poulter) was telling Marcus(Lionel Boyce) the exact story Carmen had told about his competition in the kitchen I wondered if they were the same people in each's story and getting it subtly confirmed was another nice cherry on this episode.

An amazing standalone episode that hits close to home.

[bayleykedar · 10/10 · 8 July 2023]

I've always loved Richie, so to watch an entire episode devoted to him was easy. I've heard a lot of people praise this episode because it made them see the character in a new light, but I feel as though Richie's vulnerabilities have always been one of the strongest aspects of the show in regards to its emotional core. Even if they've never been addressed as explicitly as within this episode.

The episode is great because of the setting, too. The restaurant is so much fun to watch in action; you can't help but share the radical excitement of Richie as he and you realise just how much the service industry can make people's days, if the workers are willing to go that extra mile.

And in many ways, maybe this is something that Richie has never been fully willing to do before. He tries to take on tasks that don't fit him, and he doesn't want to stand around and take the time to learn before he dives right in. His heart is in the right place, he wants to go the extra mile, but he's never truly receptive to the exact course of action it would take for him to get there. It was great to see this episode change that, and I think Ebon Moss-Bachrach could have a career-altering awards season, if the Emmys and Golden Globes know what's right for them.

Fun, hilarious, thought-provoking and a deeply emotional look into one of this show's best characters.

And the hits keep coming....

[rankinmtj · 10/10 · 13 July 2023]

Probably one of the best episodes of the series. I didn't think they could top the Christmas episode but they did.

I love the show because I worked at a high-end restaurant at one point in my life and it's refreshing for a show to appeal to an "insider" along with people just looking for a compelling well-written drama. This is as true to the industry as anything I've seen.

Some might not know the actor playing Fak has run a number of restaurants, done a number of food shows and was an executive chef in Toronto. He's also an executive producer on the show. This along with some great cameos shows Hulu's commitment to excellence and really exceed my expectations. The scene with Olivia Colman and Richie was amazing.

Richie is a complex character that has been demonized to the point that he's difficult to watch most of the time. How the writers chose to humanize him in this episode is truly genius. I went from hatred for the character to empathy. Now that's a neat trick.

On second watch this might be the best episode of the series

[kensaiamg · 10/10 · 25 June 2023]

We all need someone to root for. "Forks" does a phenomenal job of giving us just that. In the age of the antihero and style over substance often we see characters spiraling with no real payoff. Sorry hollywood, a 'charismatic' lead only goes so far. Not only does this episode give us everything we could ask for, I would go so far as to say that this episode will inspire people and change their lives.

I could go into added detail about the brilliant performances and great music choices, how it all comes together seamlessly. This might actually be my favorite bit of filmmaking since Whiplash. Even in whiplash the only real hero of the movie is the music itself.

In this one they gave us the ultimate payoff and still leave us wanting more, like the perfect meal is supposed to do. 11 out of 10.

Exquisite.

[GrayedMan · 10/10 · 22 June 2023]

This episode is a portrait all its own. Episode S2 E7 "Forks" is a journey. I went into it not fully appreciating the character of Richie, and not really understanding the draw of the restaurant field. I came away with passion for both. The lesson builds through each second as he polishes, works, listens, and serves. Every second counts. I am surprised, moved, and impressed. There is a gift in making people happy. Within this gift there is a self-fulfilling state of being. I've never thought about it before, and I never would have considered the restaurant business as such a powerful teacher. We witness Richie becoming more, and healing.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach is sheer genius. I'm blown away.

Everyone has a story

[devinpbuffington · 10/10 · 23 June 2023]

Richie from the start of this series has kinda been the loud mouth dumb cousin. The first season spent a lot of time showing him as the number 2 who knew the dirty secrets of life in The Beef. He didn't like Sydney, He was pissed Carman was back to take Mike's spot in the kitchen, and he was scatterbrained to say the least.

Now it's Richie's time to shine after almost a whole seasons worth of wanting to find his meaning in the world. We have seen him as a dad now, We have seen him as a husband, and now we get to see him as a professional. Learning from the best just like Carman did for so many years before now.

Richie really comes into his own in the kitchen, and knowing what he can do now should give great insight into what The Bear will become once it's time to open its doors.

Extraordinary.

[hugor · 10/10 · 11 July 2023]

All season long, I was hoping for Richie's "redemption", or him finally finding his purpose, and to actually experience it, in such an amazing and immersive way, in what "fine dining" aims to deliver at the highest level, was an extraordinary experience, and watching Richie embracing it completely was amazing, actually inspiring.

The performances were amazing, from a constantly great Ebon Moss-Bachrach to the unexpected surprise of Olivia Colman, the visuals were amazing, the food looked amazing and i was just pulled into the workings of such a fine restaurant and the passionate people that work in them.

Can't wait to see how it will all culminate at The Bear.

Extraordinary.

Simple yet perfect

[jdrendinell10 · 10/10 · 3 July 2023]

Let me start by saying that for 2 seasons, 6 episodes, and 10-15 minutes, Richie was one of the most unlikable characters in television history for me. I just figured that was his role at this point (like Ramsay in GoT or Skyler in Breaking Bad). The writers have made it a point to show change and growth in each character, and I assumed that Richie would be left out (not in a bad way, but as a plot device).

By the end of this episode, I couldn't help but feel some strange sense of pride and happiness watching Richie change before our eyes. We have seen his struggles and understand his feeling of not fitting in, and this episode had a way of perfectly giving both Richie and the viewer exactly what we needed (I nearly cried when he asked to bring the deep dish out).

The writers of this show are giving one of the better character driven plots in any show in years and this is easily the best show on television right now.

9.9/10.

What it feels like to fall in love with food

[edirgeek · 10/10 · 27 June 2023]

This episode brought back so many memories for me from when I fell in love with food that led me to a culinary career. To see Ritchie evolve is so familiar and is so realistic. I felt the same way in an almost identical situation. The continued hassles f opening a restaurant continued to be shown in this episode is also so true. The show gets better and better each episode. After seeing this one I also have a new dining bucket list item in Chef Curtis Duffy's Ever. If only I could keep my kitchens that clean. One of my first days in a hotel kitchen I peeled mushrooms for what felt like days. This is a good example of where skill is earned.

Mind = Blown

[Top_Dawg_Critic · 10/10 · 28 June 2023]

This episode is perfection in so many ways. Firstly, especially considering previous episodes, this one as well was 99% filler, BUT, it was literally the best filler in any series I have ever seen. It added a small percentage to the series main narrative, yet it was the most powerful, and my favorite episode of the series thus far. I loved how it shed a light on what happens behind the scenes at upscale restaurants - the little things patrons don't see and we take for granted. The entire movement of the lines and the communication was insane to see in action. And as for the development and growth of a character, this was by far the best episode to show Richie's growth and enlightenment. The directing was brilliant by showing him simply clean up and organize his kitchen counter, which showed the viewer Richie's progress along the way. Everything in this episode was perfection - all casting performances, the cinematography, score and soundtracks, and the breathtaking restaurant set.

Wow they really did it

[nyc11516 · 10/10 · 28 June 2023]

The episode before this was one of the best episodes of television I have seen in a long time, yet it is THIS episode im reviewing. I thought how could they possibly follow that up, but they did! I always liked Richie, but wow now i love him. I was so emotional many times through this episode and wished it would never end. It was awesome to see the whole episode carried just by Richie. I liked it so much in fact that if the entire show was Richie in this kitchen I would be fine with it and love every minute. What a wonderful job writing and directing I hope they win a bunch of awards. They sure deserve it.

Might be the best episode of television I've watched

[yveehopkins · 10/10 · 6 September 2023]

I can't exaggerate how this episode is perfection. In such a short time, this episode pulls at your heart stings and leaves you in a puddle. It's an empowering episode about second chances and allowing yourself to take them.

Forks changes the perspective of an entire character and, with this, the experience as a viewer. I went from hating this character to cheering him on and excited to see what comes next for him.

This seriously might be one of the best episodes of television I've ever watched. The writers and acting all come together to punch you straight in the heart. I audibly said "this episode is art" and would stand by this statement to anyone who questions it.

I may now have hope for humanity

[ashleynotevil · 10/10 · 25 June 2023]

I've cried more to this season of The Bear than any other movie or show I can remember and I'm not a crier. Once again the restaurant scenes are realistic and more than anything a restaurant is made of people. You spot talent and nourish it. Often they don't even know what their real talents are. I've been there to see transformations and sometimes it was something simple and sometimes it took a village but always a person is made of moments where another is open to them.

"Forks" in just 35 minutes shows this journey which often takes months, even years, without cliché as I can verify having many nearly identical myself and we realize it's not about making the person useful to us, it's about setting the stage where there talents can shine for anyone to see, especially themselves.

Restaurants are often the forge where this can happen if a master is present. We get to see all that is wonderful about Richie. And we also get to know why he has been there all this time, why the Chef, the Bear, kept him there: he is and has been essential to the mission.

The writers and makers and actors and everyone else that makes this show work did what often can't be explained to others in just 35 minutes. I've waited far longer for a meal unworthy of the wait. This was as nearly perfect as humans get.

If you don't get it, start your life over or take a break and go beg for a job as many times as it takes at a restaurant and hope there are artists and maybe a master around.

Richie masterclass !

[elbadrifaouzi · 10/10 · 14 July 2023]

I'm writing this comment while watching Richie sing along with Taylor Swift, what a moment and what an episode. Might be the best I watched this year, all the emotions are there. We all knew Richie had more in him than what we saw in season 1 and early season 2, he can be annoying sometimes with all his yelling, but man he truly showed in this one that he's definitely in Van Halen for a reason. From the moment he heard those heartbraking news and hung up the phone, i knew my guy was gonna drop a masterclass. Can't wait to see how this new Tuxedo Guy develops in this 3-stars restaurant panoply.

"I wear suits now"

[drewindallas · 10/10 · 12 August 2023]

This may be one of the most satisfying and well written and acted episodes of television I have ever watched. Richie's transformation was such a a beautiful journey and I don't know how it could have been handled better.

As meticulously crafted as one of Marcus's gourmet pastry creations it was sublime in every way. The icing on the cake, Olivia Coleman in a short, quietly powerful and surprisingly touching scene as a notorious chef. Each one of the season two episodes have been little jewels (except for the Christmas Dinner episode that was longer, and a truly uncomfortable to watch absolute master class in acting, directing and editing).

Overall, the best thing on television in many years.

If you Ever wonder why these restaurants are so special

[tbartman-81942 · 10/10 · 5 July 2023]

I did that title intentionally! This was shot at Ever, in Chicago. They took some liberty with the plot - it only opened 3 years ago and immediately got two Michelin stars (not three, though the chef and manager previously had three stars at another restaurant). I was fortunate enough to have been there in 2021 and they showed on this episode the real dishes! I've also been to Alinea and Single Thread.

Why would someone spend that kind of money for food you may ask. Because the food is amazing in taste and presentation. But above that, at these 3 restaurants, for a few hours, I and my guests felt like we were the only people on earth. This episode absolutely made that shine through (and it comes up in the season finale). An excellent episode to show what Carmy is trying to do, that provides important context to his character and the story line!

TV doesn't get better

[ggrex · 10/10 · 3 July 2023]

By far the best of the season for me. Despite being quite low-key compared to the episode before, the pacing is perfect as we see a new side to Richie and the beginning of his redemption from a man who hates change to being open to learn.

Richie is placed in a 3 star restaurant through Carmy's connections. At first feeling like he is there for punishment, by the end Richie can appreciate the effort required in the service industry to meet customer's standards and create memories. We also find out more about his relationship with his ex-wife and daughter.

Beautiful cinematography as always, the score works well and the acting is 10/10 (with a nice cameo from Olivia Coleman).

Every second counts.

I cried. Quite a lot

[rivenmill · 10/10 · 31 August 2023]

I cried very quietly to myself, hoping that nobody else in the room would notice. But I cried throughout this episode, for each and every one of those very beautiful characters.

It's taken Richie this long for me to like him (to even think of liking him). And now I love him to pieces.

The Bear gives us these subdued characters that are (quite often) obsessional and addictive, and yet still perfectly normal.

I'm yet to see what Richie will take back to The Bear. Clean forks are probably a bit too obvious.

I'm not really a guy that cries very often. I loved this so much.

Long time listener, first time caller..

Incredibly satisfying episode!

[and_mikkelsen · 10/10 · 12 January 2024]

This episode goes to show just have well written this show is and how well the characters are handled!

This episode centers on Richie.. and oh man!

I think we have all been a Richie at some point! Struglimg to find a purpose and figure out what makes YOU special and what are YOU good at! Like Richie.. we sometimes needs help to figure that out cause we dont know ourselves!

Seeing Richie develop from feeling punishied, to experience the love of service and making a difference for someone.. was the best thing I have ever seen! A crescendo of emotions! The soundtrack was incredible!

And then Olivia Coleman steals everything at the end with a great life lessons and giving Richie just what he needs to hear! Just wow!

This episode was the best thing I have seen and Richie became one of the best characrers along the way!

Purpose and Meaning

[asharnold-49603 · 10/10 · 3 August 2023]

In spite of not being a fan of stand-alone episodes, this was a great example of how it can be done. People can find their purpose and ignite their passion from their environment and from being acknowledged for their achievements. There are a number of teaching moments I feel I could use in a classroom setting because there are many philosophical aspects that prove why The Bear is such a popular show.

All characters are believable and you really feel they have a lot of experience in their field despite being actors. A cameo at the end is also a nice touch. Super, super episode that made me so happy watching.

Every second counts.

[dwaynechambers1887 · 10/10 · 13 September 2023]

This episode is the best I've ever seen in terms of character development. I thought Richie was the deepest character in the show before, but didn't anticipate this development. The moment he serves the pan pizza and you see the excitement on his face, coupled with the scenes afterwards, triggered such strong emotions in me that my face was full of tears.

This episode is just brilliant. The change of pace, the camera work, the dialogue, the music, the actors. It makes me look completely new at gastronomic service, which I learned and hated. Not only that, the episode made me think about life itself and motivated me. Every second counts.

Thanks to all involved for creating this fantastic piece of art.

Favourite Fecking Episode.

[vipulgarbyal · 10/10 · 1 July 2023]

I f#cking love this episode so much. After scaling the great walls of tension on Fishes (an episode which would be taught in film schools btw100%), Forks gave me a newfound appreciation to the BTS of fine dining, the details of storyboarding & Richies remontada arc.

The whole episode was an education with a feel good factor & the character development you see is fantastic.

Always been one of my favourite characters in the show & I was patiently waiting for his comeback episode.

This episode is what it's all about & The Bear f#cking delivers.

Hadouken baby.

(Please don't reject my for the spellings of certain words 🙏)