Is Better Call Saul Before Or After Breaking Bad

Better Call Saul Before or After Breaking Bad? The Ultimate Viewing Order Debate

Should you watch Better Call Saul before or after Breaking Bad? This is a question that plagues many fans of the critically acclaimed television universes created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. There's no single right answer, as both viewing orders offer unique advantages and drawbacks. This article will delve into the pros and cons of each approach, helping you decide which viewing experience best suits your preferences. The ultimate decision hinges on your priorities: maximizing emotional impact or understanding the nuanced character development.

The Case for Watching Better Call Saul First:

• Fresh Perspective on Jimmy McGill's Transformation: Experiencing Jimmy McGill's journey from struggling lawyer to the morally compromised Saul Goodman without the pre-existing knowledge of his eventual fate provides a unique and compelling narrative arc. You witness his transformation in real-time, feeling the weight of each choice and the gradual erosion of his integrity. This approach allows for a deeper appreciation of the character's complexities and motivations.
• Enhanced Appreciation of Breaking Bad's Cameos: The appearances of familiar Breaking Bad characters in Better Call Saul carry extra weight if you've already seen Jimmy's transformation. You understand the context of their interactions and the impact they have on his trajectory. These cameos feel more meaningful and impactful.
• Independent Enjoyment: Better Call Saul stands on its own as a compelling legal drama and character study. It doesn't require prior knowledge of Breaking Bad to be appreciated. Watching it first allows you to fully immerse yourself in its own world and story before encountering the interconnectedness of the larger universe.

The Case for Watching Breaking Bad First:

• Understanding Saul Goodman's Context: Knowing Saul Goodman's role in Breaking Bad provides immediate context for his actions and motivations in Better Call Saul. You already understand the stakes involved and the consequences of his choices, which can amplify the dramatic tension and emotional impact.
• Increased Emotional Investment in Cameos: Seeing familiar Breaking Bad characters in Better Call Saul evokes nostalgia and a sense of familiarity. This pre-existing knowledge intensifies the emotional resonance of their appearances, leading to a heightened viewing experience.
• Recognizing Foreshadowing and Callbacks: With knowledge of Breaking Bad's events, you'll pick up on subtle foreshadowing and callbacks throughout Better Call Saul, enriching your appreciation for the intricate storytelling and interconnectedness of the two series.

The Verdict:

Ultimately, the best viewing order depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a fresh, impactful experience of Jimmy McGill's transformation and appreciate the build-up to the known outcome, watch Better Call Saul first. However, if you value context, emotional resonance, and the immediate payoff of recognizing familiar characters and foreshadowing, starting with Breaking Bad might be the better choice.

Either way, both viewing orders provide a deeply rewarding and enriching experience within this interconnected universe. Prepare for a wild ride, no matter which path you choose!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Are there spoilers? Yes, both shows contain spoilers for the other. The degree of spoilers varies depending on the viewing order.
• Can I watch them simultaneously? You can certainly switch between the shows, but it might lessen the impact of each individual storyline.
• Which show is better? This is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Both are considered masterpieces of television.

This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the Better Call Saul vs. Breaking Bad viewing order debate and make the best choice for your personal viewing experience. Enjoy!