Better Call Saul Review: A Prequel That Surpasses Its Parent
9.5/10 — Better Call Saul (2015)
Pros
- Odenkirk and Seehorn are fantastic
- Precise, patient writing
- Gorgeous cinematography
Cons
- Slow burn
- Fan service in early seasons
Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer, slowly transforms into the sleazy Saul Goodman, while navigating his relationship with his brother Chuck and his partner Kim Wexler. It runs for six seasons.
What works
Odenkirk is a revelation, and Rhea Seehorn is magnificent as Kim. The writing is patient and precise, the direction is gorgeous, and the series gives the Breaking Bad world new depth with characters like Mike and Gus. The final seasons are superb.
Where it falters
The pace is slow, and the Breaking Bad connections in the early seasons are underwhelming.
Verdict
Beautifully crafted and moving, arguably the equal of its predecessor.
