Better Call Saul is a riveting legal drama and character study that builds on the legacy of Breaking Bad while establishing its own identity as one of the greatest television series ever created. Developed by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, this AMC original premiered on February 8, 2015, and concluded on August 15, 2022, after a six-season journey spanning 63 episodes.
Serving as a prequel (and partial sequel) to Breaking Bad, the show centers on the moral decay of Jimmy McGill, a struggling attorney played by Bob Odenkirk, who evolves into the cunning criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. Set mostly in early 2000s Albuquerque, the series reveals the layered personal and legal drama behind one of Breaking Bad’s most colorful characters, while weaving in cartel dealings, legal conspiracies, and emotional relationships that rival and even surpass its predecessor.
Better Call Saul – Official Trailer
What is Better Call Saul About?
At its core, Better Call Saul is a tragedy about identity and ambition. It traces Jimmy McGill’s transformation from a charming yet flawed conman—once known as Slippin’ Jimmy—into the unscrupulous lawyer Saul Goodman. Working in the mailroom of Hamlin, Hamlin & McGill (HHM), Jimmy is inspired by his successful but emotionally distant brother Chuck McGill (played by Michael McKean) to pursue law. After earning a degree from the fictional University of American Samoa, he tries to prove himself, only to be undermined at every turn—especially by Chuck, whose manipulations shape much of Jimmy’s ethical decline.
Along the way, Jimmy forms a romantic and professional bond with Kim Wexler, portrayed by Rhea Seehorn, whose evolution from ambitious associate to morally conflicted partner becomes one of the show’s most compelling arcs. The story also follows Mike Ehrmantraut (played by Jonathan Banks), a former cop turned fixer, as he becomes entangled in the world of drug kingpins like Gus Fring (played by Giancarlo Esposito) and the Salamanca cartel, setting the stage for major Breaking Bad events.
Is Better Call Saul Worth Watching?
Absolutely—Better Call Saul is essential viewing, not only for fans of Breaking Bad but for anyone who enjoys slow-burn character drama. It’s a masterclass in writing, acting, and long-form storytelling. While Breaking Bad focused on the transformation of Walter White from teacher to kingpin, Better Call Saul explores a different kind of descent—one filled with subtle moral erosion, emotional manipulation, and the price of choosing self-preservation over principle.
Critics have often hailed it as equal or even superior to Breaking Bad, particularly for its emotional nuance and layered performances. Rhea Seehorn’s portrayal of Kim Wexler and Bob Odenkirk’s career-defining role as Jimmy/Saul earned widespread acclaim. The show has been praised for turning what could have been a comedic side character into the centerpiece of a tragic masterpiece.
Key Questions Answered
How does Jimmy McGill become Saul Goodman?
Jimmy begins as a struggling lawyer who genuinely tries to play by the rules. But repeated betrayals—especially from his brother Chuck—push him toward bending the law and embracing his past as a conman. The Saul Goodman persona becomes his way of surviving a system rigged against him.
Who is Kim Wexler and why is she important?
Kim is more than just a love interest. She is Jimmy’s emotional anchor and moral mirror. Her slow evolution, internal conflicts, and eventual choices give the show much of its heart and tragedy.
How does the show connect to Breaking Bad?
Better Call Saul serves as a prequel, detailing events that lead up to Breaking Bad. Characters like Mike Ehrmantraut, Gus Fring, Hector Salamanca, and even Walter White appear. It also includes flash-forwards set after Breaking Bad, showing Saul’s life as Gene Takavic, a fugitive managing a Cinnabon.
Who is Lalo Salamanca?
Introduced in later seasons, Lalo (played by Tony Dalton) is a charismatic but terrifying member of the Salamanca cartel. He quickly becomes one of the show’s most intense and unpredictable villains, challenging both Jimmy and Mike in unique ways.
Better Call Saul Watch Order
Since the series is both a prequel and a partial sequel, here’s how you can experience it:
Standard Chronological Watch Order
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- Better Call Saul (Seasons 1–6)
- Breaking Bad (Seasons 1–5)
- El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie
Suggested Alternate Order (for emotional payoff)
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- Breaking Bad (Seasons 1–5)
- El Camino
- Better Call Saul (Seasons 1–6)
Watching Better Call Saul after Breaking Bad allows you to fully appreciate the depth added to recurring characters and how their fates unfold.
Better Call Saul Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Better Call Saul better than Breaking Bad?
A: While subjective, many critics argue Better Call Saul surpasses Breaking Bad in terms of character development and emotional complexity.
Q: Can I watch Better Call Saul without seeing Breaking Bad?
A: Yes. It works perfectly as a standalone show, though knowledge of Breaking Bad enhances many moments.
Q: Is the series fully completed?
A: Yes. The final episode aired on August 15, 2022, bringing the story to a conclusive and emotional end.
Q: Why is it called “Better Call Saul”?
A: The title refers to the catchphrase used in Saul Goodman’s cheesy commercials in Breaking Bad. It symbolically represents Jimmy’s transformation into that persona.
Q: Has Better Call Saul won any awards?
A: Despite 53 Emmy nominations, it never won, setting a record. However, it received numerous other accolades, including Writers Guild Awards and a Peabody nomination.
Conclusion: The Tragedy of Jimmy McGill
Better Call Saul isn’t just a spin-off—it’s a fully realized drama that elevates television storytelling. It explores the personal cost of compromise, the pain of seeking approval, and the slow but steady erosion of integrity. With its haunting performances, beautiful cinematography, and morally rich narrative, it’s a tragic, poetic journey that stands among the greatest shows ever made.
Whether you’re a fan of Breaking Bad or completely new to the franchise, Better Call Saul offers a gripping, emotional, and unforgettable experience.
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