'Ozymandias'

“Ozymandias” is the most devastating, heartbreaking, shocking, gut-wrenching episode of “Breaking Bad” yet. But it’s also one of the greatest episodes of television ever created.

When “Breaking Bad” creator Vince Gilligan said he thought it was the best episode the cast and crew had done, we knew we would be getting something special. Many fans have put a tremendous amount of faith in Gilligan, and rightfully so.

“Ozymandias” follows the aftermath of last week’s tumultuous “To’hajiilee” ending. The episode title comes from the poem of the same name by Percy Bysshe Shelley. Both works describe a once-great king who now looks upon his dilapidated empire.

Every episode of “Breaking Bad” is a showcase of great acting, but “Ozymandias” stands out. Dean Norris delivers one of his greatest lines as Hank Schrader in the opening moments of the episode. Anna Gunn lives the role of Skyler White, who desperately tries to protect what is left of her family.

R.J. Mitte, who has seen limited screen time in his role as Walt Jr., finally gets his moment in the sun. Mitte embodies the role, and he nails the nuances of a kid who is experiencing the worst day of his life.

Of course, Bryan Cranston is brilliant as Walter White, the would-be titular character of “Ozymandias.” With all the astounding moments from the Emmy-winner, his phone call with Skyler near the end of the episode might go down as his finest moment in “Breaking Bad.”

Even though “Ozymandias” is only an hour long, it’s just as fulfilling as many dramatic feature films. Everything comes crashing down following events set in place throughout the series.

At the end of it all, I was emotionally and physically exhausted. At different points throughout the episode, I wanted to cry, laugh and scream, sometimes all at the same time. But by the end, I was totally drained.

That’s the mark of a great piece of fiction. “Ozymandias” is totally engrossing. I’ve rarely seen anything like it on the big or small screen. It’s the type of episode I know is brilliant, but I never want to watch again.

Gilligan has promised no loose ends at the conclusion of “Breaking Bad.” With only two episodes left, it’s hard to say how everything will turn out. One thing we know — all looks bleak for Walter White.

I’ll be sad when “Breaking Bad” is over, but I’ll be satisfied to know I was able to take in one of the greatest works of fiction of all time.