Better Call Saul Series Review
As I watch Better Call Saul every week, I will rank the episodes here in order from best to worst, along with providing a short review and rating. In addition, I will recognize which actor gave the best performance for that episode.
Spoilers follow.
Also for some reason IMDb won't allow episodes to be added to lists anymore so every entry has to be "Better Call Saul" from now on.
Spoilers follow.
Also for some reason IMDb won't allow episodes to be added to lists anymore so every entry has to be "Better Call Saul" from now on.
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- DirectorDaniel SackheimStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornKim and Jimmy face off with Chuck and Howard at the New Mexico Bar Association hearing."Chicanery" is a remarkable courtroom drama and a heartbreaking meditation on family. Its abandonment of subplot allows the heartache of Jimmy and Chuck's deteriorating relationship to reach breathtaking new heights, and the episode's writing contains nuanced, compelling surprises that play out in an awe-inspiring manner. If ever you have doubted that Better Call Saul could be better than Breaking Bad, look no further than this masterpiece.
Rating: 10/10
Episode MVP: Michael McKean - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Winner | S4E10
Prophetic and unbelievably climactic, "Winner" more than deserves its apt title. Bob Odenkirk delivers the performance of a lifetime as Jimmy cements his descent into Saul, and Mike follows a similar trajectory in performing one of the most sorrowful killings in the Breaking Bad universe. Season 5 should see the show's many plots finally intertwining, with the electrifying Lalo at the center.
Rating: 10/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorAdam BernsteinStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornMike's days as a police officer in Philadelphia catch up to him when he's questioned about a tragic event from his past."Five-O" acts not only as an engrossing, intense, and much appreciated background into the life, character, and motivation of Mike, but it also serves as spellbinding showcases for the terrific acting capabilities of Jonathan Banks and the sublimely measured writing of the show's breakout star, Gordon Smith.
Rating: 10/10
Episode MVP: Jonathan Banks - DirectorPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornKim resolves to take some time off from work, while Jimmy does his best to make amends; Nacho takes a major gamble with his future; Hamlin applies pressure on Chuck to finally make a decision.Disturbing. Suspenseful. Terrifying. Tragic. "Lantern" is a masterfully crafted piece of television that brings many plot points to a satisfying conclusion while opening the door for many more, and as a testament to the show's darkening tone, what appears to follow next season is not exciting, but inevitably dreadful. Most of all, the episode is an outstanding send-off for one of television's most unique and well-acted characters in history, and his final moments are emotionally devastating and haunting.
Rating: 10/10
Episode MVP: Michael McKean - DirectorPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornMike takes a methodical approach to his mission; someone questions Chuck's capabilities; Jimmy faces a personal dilemma.Crafted with immense skill and masterful attention to detail from series co-creator Peter Gould, "Nailed" provides the series with some of its most complex character development while delivering a deeply emotional and ultimately harrowing plot, culminating in a cliffhanger that manages to leave one's jaw dropped without a gun or nursing home explosion in sight.
Rating: 9.8/10
Episode MVP: Michael McKean - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Quite a Ride | S4E5
This might be the most fully realized, beautifully edited, and uniquely directed episode of television I have ever seen. Every single moment in "Quite a Ride" is undeniable brilliance, from the innovative camera techniques to the poetic script that is both laudable in its structure and its magnificent character depth.
Rating: 9.8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorVince GilliganStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy and Kim hire an assistant; Mike seeks out a mysterious acquaintance; and Chuck uses the law to gain an advantage over Jimmy.The unbelievably satisfying buildup and reappearance of Breaking Bad favorite Gus Fring would be enough itself to make "Witness" one of the show's finest episodes, but the hour's intense and emotional climax is somehow even more powerful than this long-awaited moment. It is truly telling of how well Better Call Saul has escaped from its predecessor's shadow, that just a few minutes of interaction between Jimmy and Chuck induces more passion than any amount of time devoted to Mike's and Gus's criminal activities.
Rating: 9.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorVince GilliganStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy must make a hard choice; Mike takes control of matters; Hamlin delivers shocking news."Klick" is a pitch-perfect season finale thanks to a plethora of sensational performances, Gilligan's trademark adept direction, and a pair of superb cliffhangers which promise that yet another compelling, carefully-crafted season will come next year.
Rating: 9.6/10
Episode MVP: Michael McKean - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Breathe | S4E2
Sinister at every turn, "Breathe" manages to further the depth and understanding of every single major character AND showcase series-best performances from many of them. Kim's confrontation with Howard and Gus's "full measure" resorts prove that the best moments of the series - and maybe all of television - do not lie in the past.
Rating: 9.4/10
Episode MVP: Rhea Seehorn - DirectorThomas SchnauzStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornChuck wants to transfer the Sandpiper case to HHM much to Jimmy's dismay. Mike gets a job offer working as a bodyguard.In "Pimento," a truly heartbreaking confrontation between brothers Jimmy and Chuck puts the nail on the coffin of their already tense relationship and serves as the catalyst for Jimmy's troubled descent into illegitimacy, while Mike's continued foray into the world of crime presents related, thought-provoking themes into the thin line between morality and crime.
Rating: 9.4/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Wiedersehen | S4E9
"Wiedersehen" vastly exceeds the expectations of a penultimate season episode by accelerating the speed of each plotline and ending them on cliffhangers that make the finale a must see event. Most impressive is the confrontation between Jimmy and Kim, not only for its layered performances but also for the nuanced dialogue that weaves in snippets from prior arguments between Jimmy and Chuck, subtly reminding the viewers that he is still grieving in his own, painful way.
Rating: 9.4/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorThomas SchnauzStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy calls in a favor from Mike. Meanwhile, new complications disrupt the Salamancas' business; and Chuck and Jimmy struggle to compromise."Sabrosito" is the 63rd episode of Breaking Bad. Although it does devote some time to furthering Jimmy's plot, it focuses almost entirely on Gus and building the world of the cartel, and the results are astonishing: Hector and Gus's relationship has become increasingly clear and undeniably riveting, and Gus can now be seen as a likable anti-hero, a far cry from the calculating monster we see cutting throats with box cutters in Breaking Bad.
Rating: 9.4/10
Episode MVP: Giancarlo Esposito - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Coushatta | S4E8
"Coushatta" has enough stakes, humor, depth, and plot progression that it could have been a film. The reintroduction of Slipping Jimmy/Slipping Kimmy and the introduction of the manic Lalo will undoubtedly provide the last two episodes of the season with propulsive, and potentially explosive, excitement.
Rating: 9.2/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorMinkie SpiroStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy visits Irene at Sandpiper Crossing to see how the class action lawsuit is going; Chuck and Howard spar over the future of the firm; and Kim faces challenges after deciding to take on a new client."Fall" is a harrowing episode that revolves around one word: consequences. Unfortunately for many of the series' most beloved characters, actions do not always have negative repercussions on those who commit them, but instead on those whom they hold dear. Better Call Saul is darker than ever before, now completely defined by tragedy and characters resorting to extreme and painful measures.
9.2/10
Episode MVP: Patrick Fabian - DirectorAdam BernsteinStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornMike makes a deal with Nacho in regards to his newest job offer. Jimmy and Kim face the repercussions of the TV commercial.The reintroduction of numerous of its predecessor's recurring characters, a dark and riveting plot guided by yet another fantastic performance by Banks, and a deeper look into the complicated relationship between Jimmy and Chuck all make "Gloves Off" another glowing triumph for the show and writer Gordon Smith.
Rating: 9/10
Episode MVP: Jonathan Banks - DirectorColin BuckseyStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy discovers the Sandpiper Retirement Home has been scamming his elderly clients, and prepares to take legal action.RICO is a fantastic representation of how Better Call Saul is able to stand on its own from its predecessor; almost completely devoid of any criminal activity, it instead rightfully focuses on the tumultuous building of the ongoing Sandpiper Crossing case and the unique dynamic between Jimmy and Chuck, delivering both an intelligently written law procedural and a great character study in the process.
Rating: 9/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorJohn ShibanStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy decides to represent a new client, much to Kim's dismay. Meanwhile, Mike meets a formidable ally who presents him an enticing offer."Sunk Costs" furthers the complexity of the protagonists, who are increasingly filled with contradictions and pulled apart in opposing and agonizing directions, and it allows its duel plot lines to approach their climaxes at thrilling yet nuanced speeds. The show's craft is also on full display, as the cinematography remains perhaps the best on television and Porter's score blends beautifully with all the show's twisting turns.
9/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorAdam BernsteinStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy is pushed to desperate measures. Nacho picks up a skill and Mike explores an alliance. Kim stands up to Hamlin."Slip" is an episode which finds its characters acting in ways which are relatively unfamiliar and utterly fascinating: Chuck is evermore confident and positive in his mental state and recovery; Kim is more aggressive and defensive; Nacho is calculating yet fittingly nervous in his thrilling plot; Mike and Hamlin are emotionally distraught; and Slippin' Jimmy is now more pronounced than Jimmy himself, with Saul just around the corner.
Rating: 9/10
Episode MVP: Michael Mando - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Something Stupid | S4E7
"Something Stupid" is rooted in one of the most realistic romantic relationships ever represented on television. The natural rift that grows between Jimmy and Kim is powerful, and it reflects the ability of the writers to eschew obvious developments. They could have made their separation a climax, but instead it is a whimper, and the characters are all the more human for it.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Rhea Seehorn - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Magic Man | S5E1
Season 5 opens with Better Call Saul's version of a bang: a 15-minute monochrome sequence that packs in more suspense and character growth than most shows accomplish in an hour. What follows is a series of intricately staged scenes that hint toward profound moral conflicts to come; most notably, Jimmy vs. Saul vs. Kim and Mike and Nacho vs. Gus and Lalo.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Pinata | S4E6
Containing one of our most notable glimpses into Saul and an instant-classic soliloquy from Gus that tells us so much from so little, "Pinata" is an encapsulation of the show's most successful aspect. It is able to progress the plot and its characters in significant ways by focusing on silence and absence.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Giancarlo Esposito - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Something Beautiful | S4E3
"Something Beautiful" continues Jimmy's complex manifestation of grief in a subversive and stirring scene, but the episode's true knockout moments are the spectacularly acted, directed, and edited sequences concerning Nacho and the regrettable results of his attempt to escape the cartel's grasp.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Rhea Seehorn - DirectorTerry McDonoughStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy must prove that Nacho is innocent when he is wrongly suspected of kidnapping.A deeper exploration of Jimmy's troubled background juxtaposed with his seemingly determined dedication to building his legitimacy make "Nacho" a thrilling and complex episode that manages a skillful balance between high plot stakes and calculated character development.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorVince GilliganStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornStruggling public defender Jimmy McGill constructs an elaborate yet questionable plan for winning back a pair of wealthy potential clients."Uno" is both an expertly crafted and acted hour of television and a pitch perfect series premiere; it introduces a plethora of instantly dynamic characters, establishes the primary themes of the series, and tells a story in itself (which is something that too many premieres fail to do, instead getting lost in exposition) complete with one of the most thrilling cliffhangers in recent memory.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy seizes an opportunity to reconnect with an old friend; Chuck adjusts to a new way of life.Although it is not the sort of explosive, tying-up-lose-ends finale one has been made used to by the majority of today's dramas, "Marco" is a unique, contemplative, entertaining, and ultimately sorrowful finale which fundamentally transforms its protagonist while still leaving the viewer wanting more.
Rating: 8.8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorColin BuckseyStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornWhen Mike's hand is forced, he can no longer hide his frustration; Mike and Jimmy work together to keep the peace.Improved by a stylish directorial flair and a thought-provoking, ambitious cold open, "Inflatable" ultimately succeeds by maintaining a perfect balance between comedy and rich character growth, mainly from Jimmy and Kim.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorLarysa KondrackiStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornThe Kettlemans seek Jimmy as their lawyer after turning down an offer from HHM.Portraying deeper sides of Jimmy as he rises and falls all too quickly portrays the character's not often seen but always present heart; this deep exploration, coupled with an especially entertaining appearance by the Kettlemans as complications arise between them and Jimmy make "Bingo" a memorable and essential episode.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorMichelle MacLarenStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy's latest scam has gone horribly wrong and he's face-to-face with violent criminals and being forced to talk his way out of a life-threatening situation.The nail-biting resolution to the premiere's shocking cliffhanger and a welcome emphasis on Breaking Bad's life or death situations make Mijo an enthralling - albeit familiar - hour of television and a perfect portrayal of the fast-talking genius of Jimmy's character.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Raymond Cruz - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Smoke | S4E1
"Smoke" is a slow, introspective premiere filled with sorrow, the most tense cold open in the show's history, and some entertaining Mike shenanigans that manage to lift the episode from sheer melancholy. The floating embers at the beginning signal a more daring season filled with consequences that will continue to haunt its tragic characters for another spectacular season.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorKeith GordonStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy is back in the commercial making business. Chuck pushes himself to the limit. Nacho finds himself ensnared in a power struggle.Although not nearly as important nor nuanced as the episode preceding it, "Off Brand" fills in its cracks with a lighter tone, and its emphasis on advancing each of its many stories is greatly welcomed. And if this episode is an indication that Madrigal will be playing a role in the series, I am elated.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorMichael SlovisStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy finds comfort in familiarity; Kim receives a life-changing proposal; when he is threatened, Mike finds himself pushed to the limit.In "Bali Ha'i," an intense and suspenseful subplot concerning Mike and his business with the Salamancas hangs a shadow of gloom over the proceedings, indirectly correlating to the struggling relationship between Jimmy and Kim which has now become one of the main focuses of the series.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Jonathan Banks - DirectorThomas SchnauzStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy tries to settle his debts. Nacho reunites with an old acquaintance. Mike helps Stacey with a project and makes a meaningful connection.A slow and repetitive plot is completely overcome by a sensational and Emmy-worthy performance by Odenkirk, who expertly portrays the many complicated layers of Jimmy as he comes ever closer to Saul.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorLarysa KondrackiStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornKim hopes to keep the Mesa Verde case, but HHM won't let it go without a fight. Mike stakes out the Salamanca's business.Bolstered by a stunning directorial achievement in a one-shot cold open, "Fifi" is an effective and carefully-composed piece of television that provides both foreboding plot set-ups and empathetic moments for many of its characters.
Rating: 8.6/10
Episode MVP: Rhea Seehorn - DirectorTerry McDonoughStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornWhile Mike attempts to track down Pryce's stolen baseball cards, Jimmy must defend him when the police call him in for further questioning."Cobbler" boasts perhaps the series' most effective comedic moment, and it contains essential developmental moments between Jimmy and Kim as well as a greater emphasis on Mike's subplot; although many would argue that Price has overstayed his welcome.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Jonathan Banks - DirectorColin BuckseyStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy makes a bold move against Hamlin in an effort to attract potential clients."Hero" provides a thoroughly entertaining and often humorous exploration of Jimmy's scamming tendencies, but it also maintains a necessarily serious tone in Chuck's reaction to his brother's return to the con artistry that will eventually make him become the titular Saul.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorVince GilliganStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornAs Chuck plots his next move, another lie comes back to haunt Jimmy. A rattled Mike tries to find out who's been tracking his movements - and how."Mabel" contains the series' most beautiful cinematography and skilled direction to date. Although it is proof that the series may keep its signature slow-burning plot for just a little while longer, its craft and symbolism continue to improve exponentially, and the seeds of a darker, more disturbing season are beginning to take form.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.Talk | S4E4
Somehow both aimless and overstuffed, "Talk" overcomes its choppiness by highlighting each character's crisis in distinct yet philosophically related ways. Jimmy's story is in need of more attention, but fortunately the series fills the leftover time with outstanding development for Nacho, Mike, and Kim.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Jonathan Banks - DirectorScott WinantStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy struggles with client outreach and decides to shoot a TV commercial for Davis & Main. Mike begins an investigation.Expertly shot and crafted but with an admittedly slow pace, "Amarillo" allows the viewer to savor each subtle moment to the fullest extent while preparing them for what's to come; specifically, the knock-out episode which follows it.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorJohn ShibanStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy chafes under his restrictive work environment; Kim goes to extremes to dig herself from a bottomless hole at HHM.A fantastic cold open that reveals many insights into Chuck's complicated character and a welcome emphasis on Kim's personal and professional struggles make "Rebecca" a unique and well-made episode despite its slow pace and repetitiveness.
Rating: 8.4/10
Episode MVP: Rhea Seehorn - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.50% Off | S5E2
"50% Off" displays the first bad writing of the series. Plot-wise, a lot happens in this episode, from Nacho gaining Lalo's trust to Saul becoming involved in their legal woes. But these exciting advancements arrive in the most questionable ways, such as Mike committing a completely uncharacteristic act toward his granddaughter and two annoying side-criminals receiving way too much shaky-cam screentime.
Rating: 8.2/10
Episode MVP: Michael Mando - DirectorNicole KassellStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornAfter a strange encounter with the police, Chuck ends up in the hospital. Jimmy meets up with a series of unruly clients.Although there are stretches of dullness, "Alpine Shepherd Boy" provides the series with some of its most successful comic relief, and it gives to the audience a greater understanding of Chuck's condition.
Rating: 8.2/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - DirectorThomas SchnauzStarsBob OdenkirkJonathan BanksRhea SeehornJimmy decides to quit the law after turning down a job at Davis & Main. Mike breaks ties with a former associate.While it is a bit too quirky and at times even silly, "Switch" still provides enough thrills to entertain while simultaneously laying the groundwork for a more contemplative, nuanced season to come.
Rating: 8/10
Episode MVP: Bob Odenkirk - CreatorVince GilliganPeter GouldStarsBob OdenkirkRhea SeehornJonathan BanksThe trials and tribulations of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill in the years leading up to his fateful run-in with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.