“Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” are two highly acclaimed television series that have captivated audiences with their complex characters, gripping storylines, and masterful storytelling. If you’re new to these shows and wondering which one to watch first, it’s a difficult decision. In this article, we will explore both series in detail and help you decide which one to start with.
Overview of Breaking Bad
“Breaking Bad” is a crime drama television series that premiered in 2008. The show follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling methamphetamine after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Along with his former student Jesse Pinkman, Walter navigates the dangerous world of drug dealing and becomes embroiled in a web of violence, corruption, and moral ambiguity.
Plot and Characters of Breaking Bad
1.Walter White
Walter is the central character of the series. At the beginning of the show, he is a mild-mannered chemistry teacher who is struggling to make ends meet. However, after his cancer diagnosis, he decides to use his knowledge of chemistry to cook methamphetamine and provide for his family. As the series progresses, Walter becomes more and more ruthless and power-hungry, ultimately transforming into a dangerous criminal mastermind.
2.Jesse Pinkman
Jesse is Walter’s former student and partner in crime. He is a young, impulsive drug dealer who is haunted by his past mistakes. Throughout the series, Jesse struggles with addiction, guilt, and his loyalty to Walter. Despite his flaws, Jesse is a complex and sympathetic character who undergoes significant growth and development.
3.Other Characters
“Breaking Bad” features a rich cast of supporting characters, including Walter’s wife Skyler, his DEA agent brother-in-law Hank, and the drug kingpin Gus Fring. Each character brings their own unique perspective and motivations to the story, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
Themes and Messages of Breaking Bad
1.Desperation and Survival
One of the central themes of “Breaking Bad” is desperation and survival. Walter’s cancer diagnosis forces him to take extreme measures to provide for his family, and he soon finds himself in a world where he must constantly fight to stay alive. The show explores the lengths that people will go to in order to survive, and the moral compromises that they are willing to make.
2.Power and Corruption
As Walter becomes more involved in the drug trade, he gains power and influence. However, this power comes at a cost, and he soon finds himself corrupted by his own ambition. The show examines the corrupting nature of power and the toll that it takes on those who wield it.
3.Redemption and Forgiveness
Despite his many misdeeds, Walter ultimately seeks redemption for his actions. The show explores the possibility of redemption and forgiveness, and whether it is possible for someone to redeem themselves after committing heinous acts.
Overview of Better Call Saul
“Better Call Saul” is a prequel spin-off of “Breaking Bad.” The show follows the story of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer who eventually becomes the criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. Set in the years before the events of “Breaking Bad,” the series explores Jimmy’s transformation from a struggling lawyer to a morally ambiguous figure.
Plot and Characters of Better Call Saul
1.Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman
Jimmy is the main character of the series. He is a charming and resourceful lawyer who is constantly looking for ways to make a quick buck. As the series progresses, Jimmy’s actions become more and more questionable, and he begins to transform into the Saul Goodman we know from “Breaking Bad.”
2.Kim Wexler
Kim is Jimmy’s girlfriend and a fellow lawyer. She is intelligent, ambitious, and morally complex. Throughout the series, Kim and Jimmy’s relationship is tested as they navigate the world of law and crime.
3.Other Characters
“Better Call Saul” also features a number of characters from “Breaking Bad,” including Mike Ehrmantraut and Gus Fring. These characters add depth and continuity to the overall narrative, and their appearances help to bridge the gap between the two series.
Themes and Messages of Better Call Saul
1.Identity and Transformation
One of the main themes of “Better Call Saul” is identity and transformation. Jimmy’s journey from a small-time lawyer to Saul Goodman is a complex one, and the show explores the choices and circumstances that lead to his transformation. The series also examines the idea of identity and how our actions can shape who we are.
2.Morality and Ethics
As Jimmy becomes more involved in the criminal world, he is forced to confront his own morality and ethics. The show explores the gray areas of the law and the difficult choices that lawyers and criminals must make. Family and Loyaltycs of family relationships. Additionally, Jimmy’s loyalty to his friends and clients is tested throughout the series.
Which Series to Watch First?
1.Arguments for Watching Breaking Bad First
Watching “Breaking Bad” first allows you to experience the story in chronological order. You will get to know the characters and the world of the show before delving into the prequel.
“Breaking Bad” is a highly regarded series that has set the standard for modern television dramas. Watching it first will give you a better understanding of the impact and significance of “Better Call Saul.” If you are already familiar with “Breaking Bad,” watching “Better Call Saul” will be a more rewarding experience as you will recognize the connections and references to the original series.
2.Arguments for Watching Better Call Saul First
“Better Call Saul” is a more character-driven series that focuses on the development of Jimmy McGill. Watching it first allows you to become invested in his story and understand his motivations before seeing his transformation into Saul Goodman in “Breaking Bad.”
The prequel nature of “Better Call Saul” means that it can stand on its own as a separate story. You don’t need to have watched “Breaking Bad” to enjoy it. Watching “Better Call Saul” first can add an extra layer of depth and appreciation when you eventually watch “Breaking Bad.” You will be able to see the events of the original series from a different perspective and understand the origins of certain characters and storylines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision of which series to watch first, “Breaking Bad” or “Better Call Saul,” depends on your personal preferences. Both series are masterpieces in their own right, offering complex characters, engaging storylines, and thought-provoking themes. If you prefer to experience the story in chronological order and want to understand the impact of “Breaking Bad,” start with that series. However, if you are more interested in character development and don’t mind watching a prequel first, “Better Call Saul” is a great choice. Whichever series you decide to watch first, you are in for a thrilling and unforgettable television experience.
Related content: