WHO SHOULD WATCH BREAKING BAD?
I'm fifty-(ahem) years old and I've watched a lot of tv in my life. In my opinion this stands out as the best of all the outstanding drama series from the 60's and beyond. Were you a fan of "Hill Street Blues"? How about St. Elsewhere, NYPD Blue and Law and Order? Did you like the cop shows in the 70's? Did you watch Homicide, LA Law, ER, 24 or CSI? It follows the format of "The Fugitive" more than any I remember. This drama has all the good stuff of those and then LEAPS into a level beyond in terms of drama, suspense, acting, writing, and production. Every company who produces tv shows should have a shrine in honor of Breaking Bad.
But, let me add: If you're a bit squeamish, you may have to turn your head at times.
A SHORT INTRO (no spoilers)
The setting is Albuquerque, NM and the series begins on Walter White's 50th birthday. He's really a regular sort of guy. A nerdy fellow who's afraid of his own shadow. A family man. A man with a mortgage and a job he's not really crazy about, because he is severely over qualified. We would later learn that he was removed from his chosen enterprise in a political move, but brings his bagged lunch to his boring job every day in his AZTEC. That's how bland he is. He drives a Pontiac Aztec. And, he also drives it to his crappy part time job. His front yard is gravel. They've got magnets on the refrigerator. He's a guy who could be your next door neighbor, or your brother in law, or YOU. Then, all of a sudden he's hit with adversity. Inoperable lung cancer. Walter is a very private, proud person and the apple of his eye really is his family whom he doesn't want to worry or be burdened with his care. (remember that). Walter begins to reflect on his life, his options and his response to the crummy hand he's been dealt. He's not going to take this lying down. He's determined not to leave his family in ruins, he's not going to die a schmuck and he's tired of being pushed around his whole life. Then one day...
WHY IT'S UNIQUE
The single most impressive factor is the first rate writing. The script is a very clever, interwoven storyline with sharp turns and interesting characters. The writers control just how much you know about a character until its time to let you know more. The acting is top notch, but I think much of that may be due to the roles themselves. Characters that you love, or hate or love to hate (or hate to admit that you love)
Every episode begins with a short scene that is a flashback, or something that won't take place for some time. Or something off to the side. It doesn't make sense at that point, but it will fit into the larger puzzle later down the line. The show doesn't always follow a linear timeline but it doesn't get mixed up enough to confuse you, just to tease you or keep you trying to figure out what's going to happen next. There are plenty of times the plot takes an unexpected turn and sometimes you might be laughing, followed by a sudden, "Man, I cant believe they did that!!" 180 degree turn in the middle of traffic.
And, if you appreciate good photography and music you will see that this series is at the top of the chart. The Southwest U.S. cinematography and choice of music makes this a stunning masterpiece. Story and acting aside, this is really something beautiful to look at. Plus, it gets better each season.
THE ONLY NEGATIVE
Another reviewer made this point and I have to agree. Some of the events are kind of far fetched. I mean the sun and moon and stars must all align in perfect harmony for it to happen, but c'mon. Crazy things do happen. And they all happen in the life and times of Walter White. You should actively watch, but don't overthink it. Just enjoy.
RECOMMENDATION
Watch the first episode. Its called "Pilot". The first few minutes won't make any sense cause it's a flash forward...and...Walter's in his underwear. But don't let that concern you, it will make sense later. Watch the entire episode and see if it's for you. You can see it here: Pilot
FINAL WORD
Ordinary citizen. Cancer. Bad choices. Consequences.
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