Premiering its third season on April 10, and now with the first two seasons on Netflix, “Better Call Saul,” has begun taking over AMC. The show explores the life of a notorious lawyer, Saul Goodman, from the television series “Breaking Bad.” Carrying on a similar stylistic form of television, “Better Call Saul” is filled with themes about the ambiguous line between legal and illegal skills.
Acting as a prequel, set nearly six years before Walter White and Saul Goodman meet for the first time, Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould produced another dark humor-filled crime drama.
The main story line follows the life of lawyer Saul Goodman, or in his younger years James (Jimmy) McGill, played by Bob Odenkirk. McGill’s young life is filled with minor league grifting, scamming drunks and being a major disappointment to his older brother, Chuck McGill, played by Michael McKean.
Developing as a character fairly rapidly, James attempts to use his talents in a more useful manner, one that could be used for good and one that would impress his brother.
Just like “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul” follows the life of a good man and his transformation into a felon with good intentions. However, unlike Walt, James lacks arrogance and is humble with matters regarding business.
Although we know James eventually ends up as Saul Goodman, the slick lawyer who helps you out with all your illegal needs, we can still see the tender side to James. He is gentle with his girlfriend Kim throughout their relationship, and although he introduces her to the slick new lifestyle he is working towards, he still respects her decision to not want any part of it.
We also witness James tend to his older brother and his supposed allergy to electricity, even though there is a slight sense of animosity in the air.
One of the most interesting aspects of this show is how the audience gets back stories not only on McGill, but other characters that played prominent roles in the “Breaking Bad” series.
Characters such as drug lord Tuco Salamanca, played by Raymond Cruz, and ex-cop Mike Ehrmantraut, played by Jonathan Banks, are what keep fans coming back for more. It’s a whole new beginning for Walt and the start-up of his role in the underground community of illegal activity.
Creating a non-linear story line through multiple television shows seems like a brilliant, though difficult, idea. By following many different characters all from one television series, you can maintain a fan base that has potential to grow with every new series you add.
Regardless of whether you have seen “Breaking Bad” or not, this series is a must-add to your watch list on Netflix.
