In the world of television, few series dare to serve as a prequel to a legendary work like 'Breaking Bad,' and even fewer succeed so well that many consider it 'better than the original.' That is 'Better Call Saul,' the series that takes us back to meet Jimmy McGill, an ordinary lawyer before he becomes Saul Goodman, the shady lawyer of Albuquerque.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story takes place in 2002, six years before the events of Breaking Bad. Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk) is a struggling lawyer trying to make a name for himself in Albuquerque. He has an older brother, Chuck (Michael McKean), a partner at a top law firm who doesn't support Jimmy as he should. Jimmy faces obstacles from both the legal system and his own conflicted identity. Meanwhile, he meets Kim Wexler (Rhea Seehorn), a fellow lawyer who becomes both his colleague and lover. The series also follows the path of Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks), a former cop turned bagman and eventually a hitman in the criminal underworld, as well as Nacho Varga (Michael Mando), a cartel underling trying to escape the cycle.
Acting and Characters
Bob Odenkirk delivers the best performance of his career. The transformation from well-meaning but misguided Jimmy to shameless Saul Goodman is captivating. Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler is the heart of the series; she portrays the complexity of a character both strong and vulnerable with incredible skill. Jonathan Banks remains excellent as Mike, and Michael McKean makes Chuck both pitiable and detestable at the same time. Supporting performances like Giancarlo Esposito (Gustavo Fring) do not disappoint.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Creators Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould deliver a series meticulous in every detail. The cinematography of Better Call Saul is beautiful and distinctive, with creative camera angles and vibrant colors contrasting with the dark content. The score by Dave Porter creates an atmosphere that is both tense and emotional. The editing and sequencing in some episodes evoke art films, making this series high art.
Editorial Analysis
Better Call Saul is not just a prequel; it is a deep character study of 'how a good person becomes bad.' The series questions morality, family, and life choices. Its strength lies in its slow but emotional storytelling, without constantly relying on Breaking Bad references. Some may find the early episodes slow, but as the story progresses, the enjoyment and complexity will make you unable to stop watching.
Verdict
Better Call Saul is a perfect series in every aspect—acting, writing, cinematography, and music. If you are a Breaking Bad fan, you will fall in love. And if you haven't seen it, this series stands on its own with grace. Watch it; you won't regret it.
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👍 Pros
- +Masterpiece performances by Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn
- +Deep and complex writing with multidimensional characters
- +Beautiful cinematography and music that create excellent atmosphere
👎 Cons
- −Early first season may be too slow for some
- −Must watch Breaking Bad first to fully understand the connections
Top Cast
FAQ
It is recommended to watch Breaking Bad first because the series are connected and contain some spoilers. However, you can watch it without prior knowledge, but you will miss important details.
6 seasons total, 63 episodes, and it has concluded.
It's a matter of taste. Many think it's better because it focuses more on character development and emotion, while Breaking Bad is more intense with action.
It is a prequel that tells the story before Breaking Bad, featuring several shared characters like Mike, Gus, and Tuco Salamanca, as well as the Albuquerque setting.
