Decoding the Chronological Order- Did Better Call Saul Precede Breaking Bad-
Did Better Call Saul Come Before Breaking Bad?
In the world of television, there are few series that have captured the hearts and minds of viewers like AMC’s “Breaking Bad.” The series, which follows the transformation of high school chemistry teacher Walter White into a notorious drug lord, has been lauded for its storytelling, character development, and complex themes. However, one question that has often been asked by fans is whether “Better Call Saul,” a prequel to “Breaking Bad,” came before the original series. This article aims to explore this question and provide some insight into the timeline of these two iconic shows.
Understanding the Prequel Relationship
To answer the question of whether “Better Call Saul” came before “Breaking Bad,” it is important to understand the relationship between the two shows. “Better Call Saul” is a prequel, which means it tells the story of the events that led up to “Breaking Bad.” The show follows the character of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer who later becomes the cunning and morally flexible Saul Goodman. While Jimmy McGill is the same character as Walter White in “Breaking Bad,” the narrative of “Better Call Saul” takes place before the events of the original series.
The Timeline of the Shows
The timeline of the two shows is as follows: “Better Call Saul” begins in the early 2000s and follows Jimmy McGill’s journey as he navigates the legal and moral complexities of his career. The show explores his transformation into Saul Goodman, who is known for his sharp wit and unscrupulous tactics. Meanwhile, “Breaking Bad” starts in 2008 and follows Walter White’s descent into the world of methamphetamine after he is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
Why the Prequel Format?
The decision to create “Better Call Saul” as a prequel was made to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations. By exploring the backstory of Jimmy McGill and Saul Goodman, “Better Call Saul” allows viewers to see the evolution of the characters and understand how they became the complex individuals they are in “Breaking Bad.” The prequel format also gives the writers the opportunity to delve into the series’ themes of morality, power, and corruption in a way that would be difficult to do in a continuation of “Breaking Bad.”
Impact on the Franchise
The success of “Better Call Saul” has had a significant impact on the “Breaking Bad” franchise. The prequel has been praised for its storytelling, with critics and fans alike lauding its ability to stand on its own while still providing valuable context to the original series. The show has also introduced new characters and storylines that have enriched the overall narrative of the franchise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Better Call Saul” did come before “Breaking Bad.” The prequel format allowed the writers to explore the characters’ backstories and provide a deeper understanding of their motivations. While “Breaking Bad” remains a fan favorite for its compelling storytelling and memorable characters, “Better Call Saul” has proven to be a worthy addition to the franchise, offering viewers a unique perspective on the events that led to Walter White’s transformation.
