'Better Call Saul'
Grade: A
AMC is the network known for producing “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad,” two of the most critically acclaimed shows in recent history.
The network then added “The Walking Dead,” which became one of the most-watched shows in the nation.
All of this brings me to a singular point: AMC’s pretty good at selecting and airing quality TV shows.
“Better Call Saul” is the newest member of the spectacular AMC programming family.
A sort-of-prequel to “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul” focuses on the popular character Saul Goodman, a criminal lawyer with a dark side.
The show takes place before the meth manufacturing in “Breaking Bad” as it shows how Jimmy McGill, played by Bob Odenkirk, becomes renowned lawyer Saul Goodman.
A fellow “Breaking Bad” actor, Jonathan Banks, who plays Mike Ehrmantraut, enforcer and Goodman’s handyman, joins Odenkirk.
“Better Call Saul” has brought in a new cast of actors to flesh out the New Mexico town, including Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler.
The dark comedy of its predecessor is a significant part of “Better Call Saul,” along with an interesting character arc of how Jimmy McGill changes throughout time into a new persona.
From the first episode, you can see that the beautiful shots and camerawork prevalent in “Breaking Bad” will be found in its descendant.
The main fear about this show is that it will ride on the coattails of its predecessor and just be a money-grab.
However, it seems obvious from the first episode that the only real connection is the main character.
“Better Call Saul” is a show that already knows its identity and is in the hands of more than capable show-runners and superb directors.
AMC has another hit that will replace “Breaking Bad” and the soon-departing “Mad Men.”
