Breaking Bad is an American drama series consisting of five seasons, from the golden era of cable television way back in 2008. Critically acclaimed one of the best shows ever,’ Breaking Bad’ has a cult following of millions all over the world till this date. This series is a fantastic tale about a teacher who became a criminal because of life’s compulsion, depicts unforgettable journeys of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. With some best written characters and fantastic cinematography and acting, the series gives a sheer emotional gut punch of events which make it worth watching.

Directed by – Vince Gilligan

Genre – Crime, drama, thriller, neo-western

Seasons – 5

Staring:

• Bryan Cranston
• Aaron Paul
• Anna Gunn
• Dean Norris

Release Date – 20 January 2008

Episodes – 7

Breaking Bad (season 1) storyline and plot

The best thing about Breaking Bad Season 1, is it is the story of an average person who has normal everyday life, but suddenly in his life comes an unexpected health condition and financial struggle, which takes him down the dangerous path. Walter White is a high school chemistry teacher, living from a small salary while providing for his family. Then he learns he has cancer, at which point he begins to think differently and make different decisions. From that point, we follow a man who is ready to do anything for the future of his family, despite whether it is right or wrong.

Performance: Unique blend of chemistry and crime

One of the key strengths of Season 1 was taking a normal subject that is boring to most people, chemistry, and making it thrilling and full of danger. Walter used his chemistry knowledge to create meth, an illegal drug. This is a game changer, and the show is clearly different from the many types of crime shows. The more cleverly he made his product, the more his name spread in the drug culture. Mixing crime and science together added an artistry to making Breaking Bad a phenomenal show to watch.

Acting: A great pair of Jesse Pinkman and Walter White

Season 1 introduces Jesse Pinkman’s character, a former student of Walter’s and part-time small-time dealer. Walter and Jesse pairing with each other is an unexpected turn in the show, but when you see the chemistry develop over the seasons, it makes more sense. Jesse is an immature, careless kid, while Walter is a disciplined, intelligent, educated teacher. Their pairing of comedy, drama and thrills is key to the success of the show. Walter couldn’t achieve his goals without Jesse and vice versa, and together their chemistry (pun intended) becomes the heart and soul of the show.

Family Drama where tension and suspense also run parallel

Alongside Walter’s illicit operation, there was mounting family drama, which made the series relatable. Walter’s wife, Skyler, starts to notice changes in his behavior but does not know why. Walter keeps his secret life hidden from his family, and living with that double life creates constant tension. His brother-in-law Hank is in law enforcement as a DEA agent, and he is on the front lines in the war against drugs. This juxtaposition takes the suspense and thrill in the series to the next level.

 A Slow Start which then Becomes a Big Delight

Season 1’s pacing is a little slow, but then continues to build and build. Setting the stage in the beginning seems simple enough. We are rooting for a teacher with cancer in this sick world, working to make a little extra cash for his family. The story becomes a whole new ball game as the character constructs come into play and things rapidly become unpredictable. By the last episode of Season 1, the viewer is feverishly invested in the show and cannot wait for the next season.

A Show Which Made the Anti-Hero Your New Best Friend

With Season 1, Breaking Bad did something special with television by creating a trend of anti-hero protagonists. Walter White is not a hero, however the evolution of his journey is constructed in such a way that we find ourselves rooting for him through the “emotional rollercoaster” of the series, even though he is a criminal. It was a difficult balance to maintain, yet season one was able to execute this balance to perfection.

The most intriguing aspect of Breaking Bad Season 1 is that it is not just a crime series, it is a moral journey. Walter’s intentions are to provide for the family, which is a positive motive, however he is acting in illegal and dangerous ways, in which there are people’s lives at stake. The audience becomes conflicted about whether Walter is doing the right thing or wrong. These moral greys are the stunning masterpiece of the show – as no character seems to be a 100% hero or villain.

Overall ‘Breaking Bad season 1’ is the starting of a thrilling and emotional journey which keep the viewers hooked throughout the series. The transformation of Walter White and his partnership with Jesse make it all unique. With its slow burn narrative and intense character development, season 1 set a strong base for further seasons. Clearly, it’s not just a crime thriller, but a deep human story which balances between greed, desperation and survival. Definitely a must watch….

FAQ

Where can you watch American television drama Breaking Bad (Season -1)?

American television drama Breaking Bad (season-1) is now streaming on Netflix.