Napkins

I think Ayo Edebiri's directorial debut hit it out of the park. It was an exquisitestory of a regular person, faced with the challenges of competing on a playing field heavily tilted against her. Liza Colón-Zayas' acting - paired with David Zayas as a terrific counterpart - was beautiful, evocative, a shining example of simplicity in authenticity. Jon Bernthal also toned down his star power so I could forget about him as the Punisher, haha. Every performance was equally nuanced, comedic, yet painfully poignant. Also, killer soundtrack and musical choices. Kudos to the cast and crew! Ayo Edebiri is clearly going to be a force in the filmmaking world.

I normally don't leave written reviews on here, but this episode compelled me to. I was recently laid off and have been struggling, and this episode perfectly captured everything I'm going through and feeling. Excellent writing and acting, it really made me cry when Tina started crying. I know this is meant to be backstory for Tina's character, but the writers truly captured what it's like to lose your job and sense of purpose, and all of the fears and worries that creep in while trying desperately to stay afloat. 10/10 - hard to get through without sobbing (maybe not sobbing but definitely crying).

I often feel that when I end up reviewing on here, it's to reveal how frustrated I am with a show or movie. It is my absolute pleasure to be able to provide a glowing analysis of a show for once!

'Napkins' pulls at your heartstrings. Most of us have been in Tina's shoes at some point and endured life's anguish. Every grit of her teeth, every desperate glance and every tear you really feel. Liza Colón-Zayas delivers an incredible performance, and whilst we've already seen her shine in the series so far, this episodes particular focus on her struggles reenforces her talent. Characterisation is the soul of this show. You could easily hand awards to everyone in the cast.

I must also add that Jon Bernthal is on another level. Everything he's in, I'm truly captivated. Despite his small role in this series, he is truly magnificent.

What a beautifully written, acted, and directed episode. Such an human story that added so much texture to already well developed characters. I'm so touched by the way this story was told. The job search struggle/desire to "find one's passion" continues to get harder as you age; and this is episode. Expressed that In such a lovely, honest, and judgement-free way. It's all too common and relatabl.

This season has been good to date but perhaps not as striking/stand out as season two. But this episode brought back a little more kindness/love/humanity. The stress of the kitchen and running a business can only take us so far. Bravo to all those that contributed to this episode, particularly Liza Colon-Zayas.

This episode had me in tears. Liza Colón-Zayas portrayal of Tina's struggle as a middle-aged Mum looking for work wanting to support her family wanting to feel valued wanting to feel like a member of society was just absolutely incredible.

The storyline, the performance, Before everything about this episode is just perfection from start to finish. I love the character of Tina and seeing a glimpse into her life and how she came to work at The Bear was fantastic.

Out of all Out of all the episodes this is the one that really spoke to me. Liza's performance, the direction the editing everything is just amazing more of Tina's story please! This is story telling at its best!