Why Breaking Bad is Better than Most Movies - Part 1

--DISCLAIMER--

Please Be Advised: While I will do my best not to reveal any spoilers within this series of posts, I cannot 100% guarantee that it will not happen.

--READ AT YOUR OWN RISK--

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"Chemistry is the study of matter, but I prefer to see it as the study of change ... It's growth, then decay, then transformation." Walter White

On the eve of the Breaking Bad series finale, my wife and I began to discuss her recent disinterest in movies. Whether it was going to the theater, or selecting a DVD rental off of the wall at our local Hastings, we've generally become dissatisfied with most recent releases. Her interest has waned considerably because character development and story has taken the backseat to car chases, explosions, high octane action, comic book franchises, and special effects.

As I began to rack my brain over my first 'hit' of Breaking Bad (bad pun, I know), it made me start to wonder why it is that Breaking Bad was better than most movies released today? That answer was easy and I've listed them below.

1. Character Development

Over the course of six years and 62 episodes, we watched a lowly high school chemistry teacher transform into a power hungry kingpin who's aspirations to provide for his family got shoved to the side once his supplementary income radically increased with zeros. It's amazing how a life-changing event can alter your entire outlook on life. Most would probably make different decisions than Water White, but no one doubts his motivations. Unfortunately the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

I don't believe that Walter White's fascinating character arc would translate very well into a 2  hour movie. Making that leap without the passage of more time would seem extremely unrealistic. On the other hand, when broken up into 45 minute intervals, where we see Walt slowly slide into the makings of a sociopath and what his motivations are, the transition seems plausible.

What episodic television provides for the viewer is time -- and more importantly -- personal reflection. Giving the viewer this opportunity, the ability to invest their time -- whether it's once a week, or binge-watching several 45 minute episodes on Netflix -- this medium allows the audience to grow with the character. We experience what he experiences. We begin to sympathize with Walt and his predicament. It's like inviting a close friend over for supper every Sunday night who regales us with their outrageous stories without having to hold them accountable for their actions by the time the dessert and coffee is passed around the table.

Stay Tuned for Part 2 Coming Soon!