Is Better Call Saul a Superior Prequel to Breaking Bad

When fans of Breaking Bad first heard about Better Call Saul, many wondered if the prequel could live up to the original’s intense storytelling and complex characters. Both shows share a universe, but they offer very different experiences. The question remains: is Better Call Saul a better show than Breaking Bad, or does it simply complement it? This post explores the strengths and differences of both series to help you decide which one stands out.

Storytelling and Pacing

Breaking Bad is known for its fast-paced, high-stakes drama. It follows Walter White’s transformation from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher into a ruthless drug kingpin. The story moves quickly, with tension building in almost every episode. This pace keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a thrilling watch.

In contrast, Better Call Saul takes a slower, more deliberate approach. It focuses on Jimmy McGill’s journey to becoming Saul Goodman, the morally flexible lawyer we first met in Breaking Bad. The show spends more time on character development and subtle storytelling. This slower pace allows viewers to understand the motivations and struggles of characters in greater depth.

This difference in pacing means Better Call Saul appeals to viewers who enjoy character-driven stories and detailed world-building, while Breaking Bad suits those who prefer fast-moving plots and high tension.

Character Development

One of the biggest strengths of Better Call Saul is its deep dive into characters who were secondary in Breaking Bad. Jimmy McGill, played by Bob Odenkirk, is a complex character whose transformation feels both tragic and believable. The show also explores the backstories of other familiar faces like Mike Ehrmantraut and Gus Fring, giving them more layers and motivations.

Breaking Bad focuses heavily on Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, whose dynamic drives the series. Walter’s descent into darkness is compelling and well-acted, while Jesse’s struggles add emotional weight. However, some supporting characters in Breaking Bad are less developed compared to their portrayals in Better Call Saul.

If you appreciate nuanced characters and gradual transformation, Better Call Saul offers a richer experience. It shows how small choices and circumstances shape people over time.

Themes and Tone

Breaking Bad explores themes of power, pride, and consequence. It often feels intense and dark, with moments of violence and moral ambiguity. The tone is urgent and sometimes bleak, reflecting the dangerous world Walter enters.

Better Call Saul shares some of these themes but adds a layer of legal drama and personal struggle. It highlights the challenges of ambition, identity, and family loyalty. The tone is more reflective and sometimes even darkly humorous. This mix creates a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from Breaking Bad.

The difference in tone means Better Call Saul can feel more relatable and human, while Breaking Bad delivers a gripping, high-stakes thriller.

Visual Style and Direction

Both shows benefit from excellent direction and cinematography. Breaking Bad uses vibrant desert landscapes and sharp contrasts to emphasize isolation and danger. Its visual style supports the story’s intensity and drama.

Better Call Saul adopts a more subdued color palette and often uses close-ups and quiet scenes to focus on characters’ emotions. The visual storytelling is subtle, matching the show’s slower pace and introspective tone.

Fans of cinematic storytelling will find both shows visually impressive but in different ways. Better Call Saul offers a more intimate look at its world, while Breaking Bad delivers bold, dramatic imagery.

Impact and Legacy

Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the greatest TV dramas ever made. It won numerous awards and left a lasting impact on popular culture. Its story arc is complete, with a satisfying conclusion that wrapped up most plotlines.

Better Call Saul has earned critical acclaim for its writing and performances. It has expanded the Breaking Bad universe in meaningful ways and deepened fans’ understanding of key characters. While it may not have the same cultural footprint yet, it stands on its own as a high-quality series.

For viewers who want a complete story with a clear ending, Breaking Bad remains the go-to. For those interested in character exploration and a fresh perspective on familiar events, Better Call Saul offers a rewarding experience.

Which One Should You Watch First?

If you haven’t seen either show, starting with Breaking Bad makes sense. It introduces the world and characters that Better Call Saul builds upon. Watching Breaking Bad first also preserves the surprise of discovering Saul Goodman’s backstory later.

If you already love Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul is a must-watch. It enriches the original story and provides new insights. Some fans even find themselves enjoying the prequel more because of its depth and slower pace.

Final Thoughts

Both Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad excel in different ways. Breaking Bad delivers a thrilling, intense story with unforgettable characters and a powerful conclusion. Better Call Saul offers a thoughtful, character-driven narrative that deepens the universe and explores themes of identity and morality.

Choosing which is better depends on what you value most in a TV show. If you prefer fast-paced drama and high stakes, Breaking Bad will likely be your favorite. If you enjoy detailed character studies and a slower build, Better Call Saul might stand out as the superior prequel.