TV REVIEW: BREAKING BAD: Late to the game, but never too late to start watching
Why didn’t I watch Breaking Bad years ago!
I know I’m SO late in the game. But, why didn’t I watch Breaking Bad years ago when it first debuted in 2008? My friends and my family would always encourage me to watch the series because they know I am drawn into intricate plots and great writing.
Over the past several years. I tried watching Breaking Bad several times but just couldn’t get into it. I was not alone. Apparently, the show started out slowly and grew into not just popularity, but a television phenomenon, in large part by word of mouth. I share a link below on 26 fascinating facts about the series.
This year, while I went to visit my family in Chicago over Thanksgiving, my little brother Shan said, “Trust me, give Breaking Bad three episodes and you will be hooked.”
My little brother Shan is the youngest in the family. He is an oncologist and has little time for TV. So, when he says a show is great, I need to pay attention!
Shan was right. I was drawn in and the best part, I had five seasons to watch.
I just completed the entire series.
What I loved the most was the character development of Walter White played by Bryan Cranston. I am a journalist through and through, so of course I had to research the show. Other writers also said White’s character was perhaps the most exceptional portrayal in television history. White, an educator already dissatisfied with his life, received a huge medical blow on his 50th birthday. He was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. It was then he turned from a high school chemistry teacher to drug manufacturer to pay his astronomical medical bills. It was fascinating to watch his character unfold, using his brilliance to run a drug empire.
The life of a criminal put those he cared for the most in harms way. While, like most anyone else, I abhor violence. I did find White quite brave. It was an eye opening moment when he admitted his decision started out for his family, but he truly did it for himself because he felt alive again. It really makes you think about life and the path you choose to follow. I am curious if people felt pity for him or anger for what he did to his loved ones?
The other character that also completely drew me in was his brother-in-law, Hank, played by Dean Norris. Again, the journalist in me had me research all the actors.When I found out that Norris went to Harvard University that made my respect grow even more. I know I have not been writing on my Indian Trailblazer blog lately, but I will resume. When I do, you will understand why Harvard means so much to me.
Bryan Cranston and Dean Norris
Again, I know I am late in the Breaking Bad bandwagon. But, I’m glad I got on for the ride.
If you haven’t watched, and we’re like me, I will echo my brothers words: “Trust me, three episodes and you are hooked!”
26 FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE SHOW: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/91302/25-fascinating-facts-about-breaking-bad
The entire cast is truly so talented. I can see why so many won so many awards.