I. Introduction
If you haven’t heard of Breaking Bad, you’ve probably been living under a rock for the past decade. Breaking Bad is a television show that aired from 2008-2013, telling the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to the drug trade to secure his family’s financial future after he receives a devastating cancer diagnosis.
The show has won numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest television shows of all time. However, what makes Breaking Bad so good, and why does it continue to captivate audiences years after its finale? In this article, we will explore the complex characters, cinematography and sound design, exploration of themes, legacy, and behind-the-scenes production that contributed to the show’s success.
II. Analysing the Complex Characters
One of the reasons why Breaking Bad is so good is its complex and multi-dimensional characters. None of the characters in the show are entirely good or entirely bad; rather, they are complex and flawed individuals who are shaped by their environment and circumstances.
A. Introduction to Walter White and Jesse Pinkman
Walter White, the protagonist of the show, is a chemistry teacher with a background in research who is diagnosed with cancer. To provide for his family after his death, he starts cooking and selling crystal methamphetamine with his former student Jesse Pinkman. Jesse is a small-time drug dealer who is a high school dropout and struggling to keep his life together. Together, Walter and Jesse navigate the drug world of Albuquerque to try to make a profit and avoid getting caught by the authorities.
B. The character development of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman
Over the course of the show, Walter and Jesse undergo significant character development. Walter goes from a sympathetic character trying to provide for his family to a prideful and ambitious drug lord, willing to do anything to protect his empire. Jesse, on the other hand, starts as a careless and reckless individual but begins to display a conscience and moral compass as the show progresses.
C. What makes their motivations and actions intriguing
What makes Walter and Jesse’s motivations and actions intriguing is their complexity. Walter’s initial motivation is to provide for his family after his death, but as he gets deeper into the drug world and starts to see the money and power it brings, his motivations shift. Jesse, on the other hand, initially sees drug dealing as a way to make quick cash, but as he becomes more involved, he starts to see the consequences of his actions and the harm they cause to others.
D. Relatability to viewers
Addiction, greed, loss, and ethical dilemmas are just some of the issues that Breaking Bad addresses. Through the characters’ journeys, viewers can see how each character’s decisions shape their lives and how their actions have consequences. The show is relatable to viewers because it explores universal themes that are relevant to everyone, such as morality and the consequences of one’s actions.
III. Cinematography and Sound Design
Breaking Bad also stands out for its excellent cinematography and sound design. The show’s creators, Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, used color, lighting, and sound to create a tense and immersive viewing experience.
A. Introduction to the technical elements of Breaking Bad
The show’s use of color, lighting, and sound all contribute to the show’s overall tone and mood. The color palette evolves throughout the show, from bright and colorful at the beginning to dark and desaturated towards the end, reflecting Walter’s transformation into Heisenberg.
B. Use of color, lighting, and sound
The show also uses various lighting techniques to create tension and suspense. For example, in the episode “Half Measures,” an intense confrontation between Walter and Jesse takes place in a parking lot at night. The lighting is dim and dappled, creating an eerie mood and making the scene more dramatic.
The show’s use of sound is equally effective. Music is used sparingly throughout the show but is incredibly powerful when used. The most iconic use of music in the show is the song “Crystal Blue Persuasion” by Tommy James and the Shondells, which is used in a montage scene in the episode “Gliding Over All.”
C. Contribution of the technical aspects to tension and suspense
Breaking Bad’s use of color, lighting, and sound all contribute to the show’s overall tone and mood, making the viewing experience more immersive and intense. These technical aspects allow the show to build tension and suspense, making it more engaging and entertaining.
IV. Exploration of Themes
One of the reasons why Breaking Bad is so good is its exploration of various themes and issues relevant to contemporary society. The show’s thoughtful exploration of ethical and moral dilemmas and its emphasis on character development and relationships make it a compelling and thought-provoking drama.
A. Introduction to the themes addressed in Breaking Bad
The show addresses themes such as the ethical implications of drug trade, the consequences of ambition and greed, and the disintegration of personal relationships.
B. Ethical implications of drug trade
Breaking Bad raises important questions about the ethics and morality of the drug trade. The show does not romanticize drug dealing but instead depicts it as a dangerous and unethical enterprise. The characters’ involvement in the drug trade often leads to disastrous consequences, both for themselves and for those around them.
C. Consequences of ambition and greed
The show explores the consequences of unchecked ambition and greed. Walter’s obsession with power and control ultimately leads to his downfall, causing the destruction of his personal relationships and his own life.
D. Disintegration of personal relationships
Breaking Bad also examines the disintegration of personal relationships, whether it be between Walter and his wife Skyler or between Jesse and his girlfriend Jane. The show depicts the devastating effects of mistrust, secrets, and lies on relationships.
E. How the show tackles these themes through character arcs and plot developments
Breaking Bad tackles these themes by exploring them through the characters’ journeys and experiences. The show’s character development is exceptional, and viewers can see how each character’s decisions impact their lives and the people around them. The show’s emphasis on character development allows it to explore complex themes in a nuanced and thought-provoking way.
V. Breaking Bad’s Legacy
Breaking Bad’s impact as a cultural phenomenon cannot be overstated. The show has influenced countless other television shows and media and has left a lasting impression on pop culture.
A. Introduction to Breaking Bad’s impact as a cultural phenomenon
The show has received critical acclaim for its writing, cinematography, and acting, and has won numerous awards and accolades. However, Breaking Bad’s impact goes beyond critical recognition.
B. Influence on other television shows and media
The show’s realistic portrayal of the drug trade has influenced other television shows and media. Narcos, Queen of the South, and Ozark are just a few examples of television shows that tackle similar themes and explore the drug trade in a realistic and nuanced way.
C. Reasons behind Breaking Bad’s lasting popularity
Breaking Bad’s lasting popularity can be attributed to its writing, cinematography, and acting. The show’s careful attention to character development and exploration of complex themes resonated with viewers, making it one of the most beloved TV shows of all time.
D. Why the show has continued to resonate with audiences years after its finale
The show’s exploration of universal themes, nuanced characters, and technical brilliance have ensured its continued popularity years after its finale. Breaking Bad remains a must-see TV show that continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of TV makers and writers.
VI. Behind the Scenes
Breaking Bad’s success can also be attributed to the creative decisions and behind-the-scenes elements that contributed to the show’s success.
A. Introduction to the production of Breaking Bad
The show’s creators, Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, had a clear vision for the show from the beginning. Gilligan had previously worked on the popular television series The X-Files, and Breaking Bad was his first show as a creator.
B. Creative decisions and behind-the-scenes elements that contributed to the show’s success
The show’s meticulous attention to detail and technical brilliance was a result of the creative decisions and behind-the-scenes elements that contributed to the show’s success. From the writing to the casting, music, and cinematography, every element of the show was carefully crafted to create an immersive and engaging viewing experience.
C. Interviews with writers, directors, or actors
In interviews with the cast and crew, it is clear that each person involved in the show’s production was passionate about their work and took it seriously. This dedication and love for the show is evident in every frame, making Breaking Bad a true masterpiece of television.
VII. Conclusion
Breaking Bad is one of the greatest television shows of all time, and its popularity and critical acclaim are well-deserved. The show’s complex characters, technical brilliance, exploration of themes, lasting legacy and behind-the-scenes production all contribute to its success.
After exploring the intricacies of Breaking Bad, it’s clear why the show is so good. It is a show that explores the nuances of human nature and the consequences of one’s actions. Breaking Bad is a must-see for anyone interested in television and the art of storytelling. So if you haven’t already, binge-watch this fantastic show and experience the magic of Breaking Bad.