The Christmas episode of The Bear is titled “Fishes” and serves as episode six of the critically acclaimed show’s second season. It’s a chaotic, emotionally charged flashback episode that depicts a Christmas Eve dinner at the Berzatto family home five years before the events of the first season, providing crucial context for understanding the characters’ present-day struggles.
Unpacking the Chaos: The Significance of “Fishes”
“Fishes” isn’t just a lighthearted holiday diversion; it’s a deeply unsettling and essential piece of the The Bear puzzle. Through its unflinching portrayal of the Berzatto family dynamic, simmering resentments, and the destructive force of unresolved grief, the episode reveals the origins of Carmy’s (Jeremy Allen White) trauma, Sugar’s (Abby Elliott) anxiety, and Richie’s (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) volatile nature. The episode’s significance lies in its ability to explain the why behind the characters’ actions in the present.
The episode builds to a crescendo of shouting, shattered glass, and emotional breakdowns, culminating in a shocking moment that underlines the dysfunction at the family’s core. This single evening serves as a microcosm of the larger issues that plague the Berzattos, highlighting the cycles of abuse, neglect, and enabling that have shaped their lives. The presence of Uncle Lee (Bob Odenkirk) is particularly poignant, showing the existing animosity and tension that plays a pivotal role throughout the series. Furthermore, Donna Berzatto (Jamie Lee Curtis)’s erratic behavior and constant need for validation offer a disturbing glimpse into the mother figure that shapes Carmy and Sugar.
This Christmas dinner is not a celebration; it’s a pressure cooker, and by the episode’s end, it has violently exploded, leaving the audience reeling and armed with a deeper understanding of the Berzatto family’s fractured foundation.
Diving Deeper: FAQs About “Fishes”
Here are some frequently asked questions that shed even more light on this pivotal episode of The Bear:
What Year Does “Fishes” Take Place?
The episode takes place five years prior to the start of The Bear season one, setting it in 2018. This timeframe is crucial for understanding the characters’ ages and life circumstances at the time, especially given the timeline of Michael’s (Jon Bernthal) death.
Who are the Guest Stars in “Fishes”?
“Fishes” boasts an impressive ensemble of guest stars, including Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna Berzatto, Bob Odenkirk as Uncle Lee, Sarah Paulson as Michelle, John Mulaney as Stevie, and Oliver Platt as Uncle Jimmy. These actors bring depth and complexity to the already rich tapestry of characters.
What is the Significance of Donna’s Cooking?
Donna’s relentless need to cook an elaborate and never-ending feast represents her deep-seated desire to nurture and control her family. However, her efforts are often met with criticism and rejection, fueling her insecurities and leading to outbursts of anger and emotional manipulation. It highlights her inability to adequately express love and communicate effectively.
Why is Uncle Lee So Aggressive Towards Michael?
Uncle Lee’s aggression towards Michael stems from a combination of factors. There are hints of past business dealings gone wrong, simmering resentments, and a clash of personalities. The two characters seem to have fundamentally different perspectives on life and family, creating a constant source of friction. There’s also a palpable jealousy from Lee regarding Michael’s charisma and status within the family.
What is Michelle’s Role in Carmy’s Life?
Michelle is a close friend of Carmy’s who offers him a safe haven and a sense of normalcy outside of his chaotic family. She sees his potential and encourages him to pursue his dreams, providing a much-needed source of support and stability. However, her presence also highlights the limitations of her ability to truly understand the depth of the Berzatto family’s problems.
How Does “Fishes” Explain Carmy’s Anxiety?
“Fishes” vividly illustrates the origins of Carmy’s anxiety by showing the constant stress and pressure he experienced growing up in a dysfunctional household. Witnessing his mother’s emotional instability, his brother’s addiction, and the constant family conflicts instilled in him a deep-seated fear of failure and a need for control. The episode shows the immense weight he carries from a young age.
What is the Significance of the Fork Incident?
The fork thrown by Donna at Uncle Lee is a pivotal moment in the episode, representing the culmination of years of pent-up frustration and resentment within the family. It symbolizes the breaking point of their already fragile dynamic and highlights the destructive power of their unresolved conflicts.
How Does “Fishes” Impact Our Understanding of Richie?
“Fishes” offers a more nuanced understanding of Richie’s behavior in the present. It reveals that his loyalty to Michael and his defensiveness towards the Berzatto family stem from a genuine desire to protect them, even if his methods are often misguided. It shows how much he cares for the family, however dysfunctional they are.
What is the Significance of the Opening Scene with Michael?
The opening scene featuring Michael driving around Chicago on Christmas Eve with presents sets a contrasting tone compared to the rest of the episode. It showcases his charisma, his generosity, and his desire to connect with others, creating a sense of tragedy and loss knowing his fate.
How Does “Fishes” Contribute to the Overall Narrative of The Bear?
“Fishes” is not just a standalone episode; it’s an integral part of the larger narrative of The Bear. It provides crucial context for understanding the characters’ motivations, relationships, and the underlying themes of grief, trauma, and family dysfunction that permeate the entire series. It enriches the emotional resonance of the later episodes.
What is the Symbolic Meaning of the Various Fishes Prepared During the Dinner?
The elaborate fish dishes prepared by Donna, each with its unique presentation and complexity, symbolize the multifaceted and often overwhelming nature of the Berzatto family dynamic. They represent the effort and energy required to maintain the facade of normalcy, even when the family is falling apart. The sheer amount of food speaks to the attempt to satiate a deeper need, a void that food alone cannot fill.
How Does “Fishes” Prepare Us for Season Three of The Bear?
“Fishes” sets the stage for potential plotlines and character arcs in future seasons of The Bear. It hints at unresolved issues within the Berzatto family that may resurface, such as Donna’s mental health struggles and the lingering tensions between Richie and the rest of the family. Further exploration of these dynamics could be a significant focus in season three. The episode solidifies a deeper understanding of the Berzatto’s trauma, setting the stage for future growth or relapses in each character’s journey.