Better call Saul: Review

Socrates Kanetakis, Podcast Editor

Two years ago on Sept. 29, 2013, television fanatics and regulars sat down on their couches and turned on their televisions, streaming websites or downloaded their torrent files, anxiously biting their fingernails while the dark, demonic and wicked figure of Walter White took his last steps on screen.

Held as the greatest show in television history, Breaking Bad ended its five year run with leaving us thirsty for more. After two years of high anticipation, the hyped spin-off to the “Breaking Bad” series has knocked down our doors. “Better Call Saul” is the ambitious brainchild of “Breaking Bad”, revolving around the criminal cases of the comically relieving crook-of-a-lawyer, Saul Goodman (aka James McGill) played by Bob Odenkirk. It is truly a show which will ground viewers to their seats.

The connections to “Breaking Bad” are numerous and the Easter eggs will make any “Breaking Bad” fan get ecstatic. This does not mean that the show will appeal to “Breaking Bad” fans exclusively; “Better Call Saul” stands out plot-wise, even though some previous knowledge of Breaking Bad’s events and characters might please the viewer with a delighted smirk on his face.

Taking place before its predecessor, “Better Call Saul” has more of a comical approach to its audience although the jokes and scams are mostly dark and indirect. Following an occasionally non-linear narrative, “Better Call Saul” does not fail to intrigue and attract interest. Viewers witness Saul’s concealed emotions, often not depicted in Breaking Bad, and watch as his internal demons affect his professional and personal life. 

The show’s supporting cast is far from secondary; it is equally dynamic and multilayered like the protagonist’s and each character is memorable in his/her own way. So far, “Better Call Saul” is not a bloody and explosive extravaganza like some Breaking Bad fans are hoping for, it is rather a slow burn full of character development. But without giving away any spoilers, it is noteworthy to say that the events which occurred in the first two episodes are already hinting towards a big showdown.

Directors and writers Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould boldly reincarnate their worldwide acclaimed series into a smaller scale jaw-dropper which vividly recollects its predecessor in style but manages to stand out in matters of context and content.