Walter starts cancer treatment as Jesse works on a deal.
For me this is when the filmmakers offer a first glimpse of what the lead character can do and some of the psychology that underlies his behaviour. It is quite clever how writers manipulate you into cheering him on at the key moments. It also shows their ability to create exciting spectacle without sacrificing too much plausibility.
As ever the ironic humour involving Walt's family and their ignorance to his extracurricular activities is excellent. His scene with Hank at the school and the also poker game with all the family together are great examples. There is generally a great level of irony to everything that happens in this episode as there is in so much of Breaking Bad.
It is admirable that along with glamourising certain aspects of Walt's behaviour, there is a contrast with more somber moments, such as the depiction of cancer treatment and the associated side effects. Importantly the sub-plot involving one incredibly nice and caring guest character is very effective and shows the impact of certain behaviours on decent well meaning bystanders.
Bryan Cranston is on tremendous form and is supported well by other cast members. Raymond Cruz in particular deserves a lot of credit for an unhinged and psychotic performance.
The cinematography, art direction and editing is great as always. I like the intimidating environment the filmmakers create for Tuco's place and the effectiveness of the action spectacle, particularly how it is revealed in the episode's narrative.
For me this is when the filmmakers offer a first glimpse of what the lead character can do and some of the psychology that underlies his behaviour. It is quite clever how writers manipulate you into cheering him on at the key moments. It also shows their ability to create exciting spectacle without sacrificing too much plausibility.
As ever the ironic humour involving Walt's family and their ignorance to his extracurricular activities is excellent. His scene with Hank at the school and the also poker game with all the family together are great examples. There is generally a great level of irony to everything that happens in this episode as there is in so much of Breaking Bad.
It is admirable that along with glamourising certain aspects of Walt's behaviour, there is a contrast with more somber moments, such as the depiction of cancer treatment and the associated side effects. Importantly the sub-plot involving one incredibly nice and caring guest character is very effective and shows the impact of certain behaviours on decent well meaning bystanders.
Bryan Cranston is on tremendous form and is supported well by other cast members. Raymond Cruz in particular deserves a lot of credit for an unhinged and psychotic performance.
The cinematography, art direction and editing is great as always. I like the intimidating environment the filmmakers create for Tuco's place and the effectiveness of the action spectacle, particularly how it is revealed in the episode's narrative.