OrliAguilarT

It begins with the typical decisions of the genre and with a couple of protagonists that honestly do not look promising at all. However, from one moment to the next the chemistry between them happens (and it happens very well) supported by a good narrative rhythm, simple and direct. The "misunderstanding" is nice and is resolved by the director very efficiently. One of the best modern Japanese boys love works I've seen to date, it's amazing how beautifully it works given the limited resources the director works with; you never expect that something so seemingly small at first ends up being a charming mid-length film that every fan of this genre should run to see.

I started watching it just recently on a Twitter recommendation, without even reading the synopsis and with no expectations. I confess that I did not love the first episode because of the particular humor that the writers gave to certain adult male characters behaving like annoying teenagers and then making super intelligent social comments, nor because of the slight racial stereotypes of the different personalities in the kitchen. I found both things overwritten and lifeless, very American screenwriting. However, soon these characters begin to reveal more than we can see at the tip of the iceberg and I enjoyed how casually and subtly the personal history that has forged their character is revealed. It's especially bittersweet to learn about Carmy and his cousin's past. Jeremy Allen White and Ebon Moss-Bachrach are sensational acting here. I love how the series handles how these apparently tough, simple and reserved men are affected by the weight of their past experiences and decisions. It's also especially nice to meet the character of Sydney, an empathetic, intelligent, focused and funny girl. Ayo Edibiri embodies her gracefully.

In summary, it is a well acted series, an unpretentious drama to enjoy, with characters that matter and make you care, it takes a while to find its own rhythm and tone but once it does you will be hooked on the story and its protagonists. One cannot but become attached to this kitchen and wish that it and all those who work in it do very well. People who have worked in a kitchen I suppose will enjoy it even more. And it is with this last idea that I conflict: does it need a second season? In truth, that ending is so good that it could be left as an open ending and it would be perfect like that. The writers will, in my opinion, have to be very careful about what they plan to deliver as a sequel. The minimalism and good hand with which this first season was given supposes a challenge so as not to spoil it with a sequel that is not up to its standards.