“Better Call Saul,” the critically acclaimed prequel to “Breaking Bad,” has expertly charted the moral descent of Jimmy McGill, a once well-meaning lawyer, into the unscrupulous Saul Goodman. Season 5 stands as a pivotal chapter in this transformation, marking a shift where Jimmy’s choices push him irrevocably closer to his “Breaking Bad” persona. This analysis explores the complexities and key events of Season 5, assessing how they contribute to the overarching narrative and character development of the series.
Context And Overview
Season 5 of “Better Call Saul” picks up where the fourth season left off, with Jimmy McGill embracing the Saul Goodman persona more fully in his legal practice, much to the distress of those who knew him as Jimmy, especially Kim Wexler.
Across its 10 episodes, the season explores themes of identity, morality, and inevitability, weaving together multiple story arcs that set the stage for the series’ final act.
Jimmy McGill’s Transformation into Saul Goodman
The fifth season is critical in Jimmy’s evolution—or devolution—into Saul Goodman. This transformation is symbolized in the first episode, “Magic Man,” where Jimmy publicly adopts the Saul Goodman moniker for his attorney practice, signaling a definitive shift in his career and ethical boundaries. His engagement in legally dubious tactics and flamboyant courtroom strategies are indicative of his gradual merging with the Saul Goodman persona, which becomes increasingly pronounced as the season progresses.
The Role of Kim Wexler
Kim Wexler, played by Rhea Seehorn, remains a central figure in Season 5, providing a moral counterbalance to Jimmy’s deteriorating scruples. Her complex relationship with Jimmy is tested as she grapples with her own moral boundaries.
Kim’s arc this season is fascinating, as she oscillates between aiding Jimmy in his schemes and pursuing her own career ambitions, which are inherently more ethical and community-focused. The season deepens her character, exploring her motivations and her increasingly conflicted feelings about both her career and her relationship.
Lalo Salamanca And The Cartel’s Influence
Lalo Salamanca, introduced more fully in Season 4, becomes a significant antagonist in Season 5. His charming yet menacing presence in Albuquerque puts pressure on both Gus Fring and the operations of the local cartel. Lalo’s investigation into the discrepancies within the Salamanca operations, particularly related to Hector’s bell (a key plot element from “Breaking Bad”), introduces new conflicts and a layer of suspense. His interactions with Jimmy, particularly the intense scene where Jimmy must fetch Lalo’s bail money, highlight the dangerous world Jimmy is increasingly entangled with.
Saul Goodman’s Legal Antics And Ethical Dilemmas
Season 5 showcases several of Jimmy’s cases as Saul Goodman, each illustrating his creative yet ethically questionable legal tactics. Notable among these is his defense of Krazy-8, a small-time drug dealer connected to the cartel, where Saul negotiates with the DEA. This not only establishes his connection to the criminal underworld but also sets the stage for his future interactions with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman in “Breaking Bad.”
The Breaking Point: Jimmy And Kim’s Scheme Against Howard Hamlin
A significant subplot of Season 5 involves Jimmy and Kim’s plan to discredit Howard Hamlin, Jimmy’s former boss and brother’s partner, who represents the legal world Jimmy has rejected. This scheme serves as a turning point for Kim, showcasing her willingness to embrace Jimmy’s morally ambiguous tactics for perceived greater goods. Their actions lead to a dramatic climax, pushing both characters into darker territory and setting up the tension that will inevitably unravel in the final season.
Technical Mastery And Narrative Techniques
“Better Call Saul” is renowned for its technical craftsmanship, and Season 5 is no exception. The cinematography, editing, and sound design are meticulously crafted, contributing to the storytelling in subtle yet profound ways. The use of color, framing, and camera angles not only enhances the mood and tone but also serves as a narrative device, reflecting the internal states of the characters and the evolution of the plot.
Cultural Impact And Reception
Season 5 of “Better Call Saul” received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, performances, and its deepening of the “Breaking Bad” universe. It continues to be lauded for its detailed character studies and moral complexities, making it a standout example of television excellence.
Conclusion
Season 5 of “Better Call Saul” is a masterclass in character development and narrative pacing, setting up the final pieces for Jimmy McGill’s complete metamorphosis into Saul Goodman. Through its complex characters, intricate plot developments, and ethical explorations, the season not only advances the storyline but also enriches the viewer’s understanding of the universe first introduced in “Breaking Bad.” As the season closes, viewers are left anticipating how these threads will conclude in the final season, with Jimmy fully embodying the persona of Saul Goodman and the inevitable consequences of his actions coming to bear.
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