While “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” exist as two separate series with their own distinct storylines and characters, they both stem from the brilliant mind of the director Vince Gilligan. This allows both shows to share a cohesive narrative world, enhancing the viewing experience for fans and expanding upon the narrative universe of the Breaking Bad franchise.
“Better Call Saul” serves as a prequel to “Breaking Bad”, providing an in-depth exploration of the character Saul Goodman, played by actor Bob Odenkirk, prior to his work as a shady lawyer for Walter White and Jesse Pinkman in “Breaking Bad”. The show delves into the backstory of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer struggling to find legitimate success within the industry. The story follows his transformation into the morally compromised lawyer, Saul Goodman, and explores the circumstances and events that shaped his character.
As the narrative progresses many connections between the two shows are emphasized by the overlap of key characters throughout both series. Mike Ehrmantraut, played by actor Jonathan Banks serves as one of the most notable examples of this. Mike plays a pivotal role in “Breaking Bad”, serving as a trusted associate of both Saul Goodman and Gustavo Fring. “Better Call Saul” delves into Mike’s backstory, providing insights into his life as a cop, the tragic events that led him to become involved with the criminal underworld, and his eventual association with Saul, Walt, and Jesse.
Moreover, the shared universe is strengthened by recurring locations and organizations that appear in both shows. Some of the most evident examples of this are the overlapping setting of Albuquerque, New Mexico and fast-food restaurant chain Los Pollos Hermanos, which serves as a front for Gustavo Fring’s drug empire. The restaurant is featured prominently in both tv shows, highlighting its significance in the overarching narrative. This consistency of settings and establishments adds a layer of familiarity for viewers, tying the two shows together and creating a sense of continuity.
Narrative correlation is further enhanced by the meticulous attention to detail in both
“Better Call Saul” and “Breaking Bad”. The creators and writers of both shows have ensured that the timelines, character arcs, and plot developments align seamlessly. For example, “Better Call Saul” depicts the early construction of the underground methamphetamine lab, which later evolves into the prevalent work location for both Walt and Jesse. The continual overlap of narrative development allows for the creation of a cohesive universe that spans both series, providing a satisfying experience for fans who have followed both shows.
The shared universe also allows for the exploration of deeper themes and character development. “Better Call Saul” delves into the moral complexities of its characters, providing nuanced insights into their motivations and choices. By exploring the pasts of characters like Jimmy McGill and Mike Ehrmantraut, the show adds layers of depth to their personalities, shedding light on the events that shaped them into the individuals we see in “Breaking Bad”. This character development enriches audiences relationships to these characters by providing the viewer insight into their complicated backstories.
Additionally, “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul” often include easter eggs and references that further connect the two narratives. Better Call Saul often features subtle nods to “Breaking Bad”, such as the appearance of familiar objects or references to key events. These easter eggs serve as a delightful treat for fans who are familiar with Breaking Bad, creating a sense of interconnectedness and rewarding viewers for their investment in the universe. The easter eggs become increasingly prominent throughout the show. These efforts come to a front in the final season of “Better Call Saul” with the shows attempts to blur the timelines of “Better Call Saul” and “Breaking Bad,” further emphasizing their simultaneous existence within this universe.
In conclusion, “Better Call Saul” and “Breaking Bad” undeniably exist within the same realm. The shows complement each other by providing a cohesive narrative, shared characters, and consistent locations. The attention to detail, thematic exploration, and character development in both series create a rich viewing experience that is enhanced by key overlapping narrative elements. The success of “Better Call Saul” as a prequel to “Breaking Bad” is a testament to the seamless integration of these two shows, satisfying fans and further cementing their place in television history.