Season 3 Review
Season 3 was very different from Season 2. Personally, I enjoyed the second season a little bit more, but not by much. The difference involves the method of storytelling. Season 2 employed a storybook format, where the season began and ended with the same image (the floating teddy bear). In other words, the writers had to plan the overarching story from the beginning, leaving a little bit of wiggle room.
The third season was different. The writers took it week-by-week. I don’t think it was planned from the beginning, and as a result, we don’t quite have the resolution we had in Season 2. I prefer Season 2’s method of storytelling (I hope that makes a comeback in Season 4), but I’d be lying to myself if I said Season 3 was anything short of fantastic.
There were so many highlights this season - Walt’s speech after the plane crash, the pizza on the roof, Tuco’s cousins, Skyler’s affair (“I.F.T!”), Hank outside the RV with Walt inside, Skyler’s monologue to her divorce attorney, Hank’s shootout in the parking lot, Saul Goodman meeting Skyler, “Run.” - these are only a few.
However, the standout of Season 3 is “Fly.” I loved that episode, although I know some disagree. It was such an important episode because it allowed us to take a step back and look at where these characters are… and it’s a very sad place. Bryan Cranston gave it his all during that speech: “If I had just lived up until that moment… and not a second more… that would have been perfect.” It’s such a heartbreaking line, yet so appropriate for Walter White.
Aaron Paul also gave a fantastic performance as Jesse. His character hit a bumpy patch this season - he’s been very unsure of himself after Jane’s death. This all culminates with the final minute of “Full Measure.” We know this is going to kill Jesse, and it’ll be fascinating to see where the character goes from here. And speaking of that final scene, take a look at Jesse in the Season 3 promo picture above - looks familiar, right?
I really don’t know what else to say about this season - it’s been great. All the characters are really coming into their own. I wonder about Skyler and Walter, Jr. though. It seems there isn’t much left for them story wise. I’m sure the writers will think up something.
The most exciting thing about Season 3 is all the possibilities for Season 4. The story can go anywhere, and I’m excited to see where that leads us next March (… I mean, July…)
Feel free to read more in-depth episode reviews right here. Also, let me know what you thought of Season 3 in the comments below. Did it top Breaking Bad’s excellent Season 2? I don’t know, but it came close.
-MP