Holiday TV specials are usually all about cozy moments and festive cheer. But The Bear Christmas episode, “Fishes,” throws that tradition out the window. From the start, when Andy Williams’ classic “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” plays, you realize this is going to be something entirely different. Instead of warm family moments, you get a chaotic and emotionally charged dinner that feels like it might blow up at any moment.

Jamie Lee Curtis: The Heart of the Storm

Jamie Lee Curtis, as Donna Berzatto, steals the show with a performance that’s anything but ordinary. She brings a raw and intense energy to the role, making Donna a far cry from the typical comforting holiday mom. Curtis went all out, even writing letters to her on-screen kids to get into character. Her Donna isn’t here to make you feel warm and fuzzy—she’s struggling to keep everything from falling apart, and it shows.

From cooking the Feast of the Seven Fishes to wielding a white towel with frustration, Donna’s presence is magnetic but also deeply unsettling. Curtis gives Donna a depth that’s both captivating and intense, turning what could have been a predictable role into something far more complex.

Tension You Can Feel

What makes “Fishes” stand out is its constant, palpable tension. It captures the essence of a family that’s been together too long, drinks too much, and avoids saying what really matters. The dialogue is sharp, and the long, unbroken camera takes adds to the feeling that you’re right there with them.

One of the most striking scenes is when Donna grabs Natalie’s face in the kitchen. It feels almost intrusive, like you’re peeking into a real family argument. That’s what The Bear does so well—it doesn’t just tell a story; it pulls you right into the messy, raw reality of it.

A Dinner Turned into Chaos

At the center of “Fishes” is a family dinner that’s far from festive. Jon Bernthal’s Mikey adds another layer of drama. His struggles are evident, especially in his interactions with Carmy. The dinner table becomes a battleground where old issues resurface, and the veneer of holiday cheer is stripped away.

The episode reaches a shocking peak when Donna, at her breaking point, drives her car through the house. It’s a darkly comedic moment that captures the explosive dynamics of the Berzatto family. Curtis calls it the ultimate “f*** you” moment—a dramatic release of all the pent-up frustration and anger.

Why “Fishes” Hits Home

Why does “Fishes” resonate so deeply? Despite its dramatic flair, it’s something many viewers can relate to. Family gatherings can be chaotic, filled with unspoken tensions, and overwhelming even with loved ones. Curtis’s line, “I make things beautiful for them, and no one makes things beautiful for me,” strikes a chord with those who feel underappreciated and overlooked. It touches on themes of sacrifice and the often-unseen work behind making holidays special.

The Lasting Impact of This Christmas Episode

By the end of the episode, it’s clear this Christmas will be remembered—and never repeated. The Berzattos’ family dynamics are forever changed by the events of that night. In true The Bear fashion, there’s no tidy resolution. Life moves on, messy and complicated, just as it always does.

For viewers, “Fishes” isn’t just another episode; it’s a powerful experience. It reminds us of TV’s ability to capture the raw essence of human relationships. As the holiday season approaches, The Bear is one of the best shows to watch and this episode provides a timely reflection on family complexities, holiday pressures, and how we cope with them or don’t.