In its six-season run, “Better Call Saul” has masterfully carved out a space for itself in the landscape of television drama. The show’s meticulous writing, under the stewardship of Peter Gould and Vince Gilligan, has transformed a morally ambiguous side character from “Breaking Bad” into a complex protagonist whose journey is as compelling as it is tragic.
The narrative structure of “Better Call Saul” has been a study in measured pacing and understated storytelling. The show does not rely on constant twists or shocks; instead, it slowly builds its narrative around the incremental changes in its characters, with every action, choice, and consequence meticulously depicted. An entire episode could revolve around a single sight gag inside a department store, yet it’s these seemingly trivial moments that form the connective tissue of the larger narrative arc.
A significant aspect of the show’s writing is its ability to balance humor with pathos, often within the same scene. This narrative strategy is especially visible in the character of Jimmy McGill, who oscillates between moments of levity and despair, a trait shared with other characters in similar shows like “Barry”. The show’s dialogue is frequently sharp and witty, demonstrated in lines such as, “What do you call a lawyer with an IQ of 60? Your Honor,” yet they often mask the underlying melancholy and desperation of the characters.
The character development in “Better Call Saul” is some of the finest in television. The transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman is not a sudden shift but a gradual and painful process. Every decision he makes, every line he crosses, is a step towards his inevitable downfall. Jimmy’s relationships with the other characters, particularly with Kim Wexler, are complex and nuanced, adding layers to his character. Kim, excellently portrayed by Rhea Seehorn, is a compelling character in her own right, with her own moral struggles and dilemmas. Her lines such as, “Either you fit the jacket, or the jacket fits you,” encapsulate the struggle between personal desires and professional ethics, a recurring theme in the series. The narrative constantly challenges us to empathize with its flawed characters, even as we’re appalled by their actions.
“Better Call Saul” also excels in its thematic exploration. The show delves into themes of identity, morality, and the corrosive effects of ambition. The series repeatedly emphasizes the idea that actions have consequences, a theme mirrored in shows like “Billions” and “Boardwalk Empire.” Jimmy’s transformation into Saul Goodman is not just a change in name but a loss of identity, a sacrifice made in the pursuit of success. It’s a tragic fall, and the writing ensures that we feel every step of it.
Comparatively, shows like “The Good Fight” and “Show Me A Hero” also utilize the legal drama genre to explore social issues and moral dilemmas, yet they maintain a more conventional narrative structure. “Better Call Saul”, however, stands out for its unique blend of character-driven storytelling and thematic depth.
The writing also significantly influences other elements of the show. The acting performances, particularly from Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn, effectively convey the complex emotions and moral struggles of their characters. Their performances are shaped by the nuanced writing that provides depth to their characters. The directing and cinematography also reflect the show’s slow and deliberate pacing, with long shots and sequences allowing the audience to fully absorb the implications of each scene. The sound design, too, complements the writing, often utilizing silence and ambient noise to heighten the tension in key moments.
Culturally, “Better Call Saul” has had a significant impact. Despite not having won an Emmy prior to its final season, the show has been widely acclaimed for its writing, acting, and storytelling. It has contributed to the larger discourse around antiheroes in television and has continued the narrative legacy of “Breaking Bad” while carving out its own distinct identity.
In conclusion, “Better Call Saul” is an exemplar of television writing. Its narrative structure, dialogue, character development, and thematic exploration are all of the highest caliber. The show’s gradual pacing and character-driven storytelling might not appeal to all viewers, but for those who appreciate thoughtful, nuanced narratives, “Better Call Saul” is a rewarding experience. The show’s writing not only crafts a compelling narrative but also explores larger themes of morality, identity, and the human capacity for change. As Kim Wexler so eloquently puts it, “Winning doesn’t always mean ‘getting a favorable verdict at trial’,” and “Better Call Saul” is a testament to the victories that can be achieved through stellar writing.
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A.I. in Screen Trade 