Breaking Bad on AMC (2 Viewers)

[Abraham]

The sounds tonight were fantastic. Every cup set on a table and door closed made for a great episode.

 

[Tiger Fan]

Glad they have an endpoint in mind. If they do it right, can be the best series of all time

It's already #3 for me behind Lost and 6 feet under. Got a good feeling it's going to end up #1 when it's all said and done.

 

[Jefferson the Caregiver]

Pretty weak episode, the writing for this show may have plateaued.

 

[corpcow]

Pretty weak episode, the writing for this show may have plateaued.

Though I guess if you're going to plateau, plateauing at the top makes sense.....

 

[⚡DEADHEAD⚡]

Need to think about it a bit more but I am developing a hunch that Skyler is working with the feds unbeknownst to the DEA.

 

[Carver]

Thought the music from tonight's episode was awesome. Loved it. Good episode too, IMHO. Although Walt getting liquored-up and getting Hank thinking more about the "mastermind" or genius behind the cook felt a little contrived. But hey, I suppose it keeps the plot moving along...

I dont think that was out of character at all for Walt. They have been gradually showing us just how big his ego really is for quite some time now.

 

[Daywalker]

So Gus made Jesse feel like a hero so that he feels apart of the team and will start caring about his job?

The scene with Walt get liquored up and raising suspicions with Hank was ridiculous. No need to write it that way. We already know Walt is very insecure. No need to drive the point home.

Would be awesome if Skylar was working with the Feds. Think it's unlikely though. Why bring Walt back into the house if she feels he is in such peril.

 

[Shrugs]

Pretty weak episode, the writing for this show may have plateaued.

Best episode of the season. Walt gets what he's wanted, his family back and the money to support them. But it's not enough anymore. Hank described Heisenberg (who he thinks was Gale) as a combination of Scarface and Mr. Rogers. Walt can't stand that Mr. Rogers lifestyle anymore. He can't bear regular family dinner converations about the car wash and such. He doesn't want to move back in and deal with normal family stuff and be subervient to Skyler. He doesn't want to go back to his old life. Jesse has no pride and is in a downward spiral. So Gus manufactures a reason for him to have pride, and possibly become more loyal to Mike and Gus in the process. Walt has too much pride and puts everyone back in danger because he can't stand for a dead guy to get the credit as a genius that he deserves. Perfect parallel storylines. Brilliant episode.

 

[Cunk]

I think it's perfectly plausible that a liquored up ego-maniac like Walt wouldn't be able to keep his mouth shut when someone else is being called a "genius" for his work. Good kinda-drunk acting by Cranston I thought btw.

 

[pantherclub]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?

How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

 

[boofatty]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

 

[boofatty]

Pretty weak episode, the writing for this show may have plateaued.

Best episode of the season. Walt gets what he's wanted, his family back and the money to support them. But it's not enough anymore. Hank described Heisenberg (who he thinks was Gale) as a combination of Scarface and Mr. Rogers. Walt can't stand that Mr. Rogers lifestyle anymore. He can't bear regular family dinner converations about the car wash and such. He doesn't want to move back in and deal with normal family stuff and be subervient to Skyler. He doesn't want to go back to his old life. Jesse has no pride and is in a downward spiral. So Gus manufactures a reason for him to have pride, and possibly become more loyal to Mike and Gus in the process. Walt has too much pride and puts everyone back in danger because he can't stand for a dead guy to get the credit as a genius that he deserves. Perfect parallel storylines. Brilliant episode.

Agreed, to me it now looks like Walt has opened the door for him to become the main target of Gus, and Jesse the safe option for Gus.How can anyone question the writing of the show? You're just not paying attention to all the plot lines.

 

[The Noid]

Let's not forget Gus' stance about never trusting an addict. I don't think Gus would hand the keys of the lab over to Jesse anytime soon, if at all. He was tweaking during the car ride, so it's not even like he's recovered and sober for years at this point.

 

[Cunk]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?

How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.

For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?

In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Please tell me this is schtick (bold). BTW, I agree with everything you wrote.

 

[boofatty]

Let's not forget Gus' stance about never trusting an addict. I don't think Gus would hand the keys of the lab over to Jesse anytime soon, if at all. He was tweaking during the car ride, so it's not even like he's recovered and sober for years at this point.

Correct. But why would Gus try to pump him up like this, when he could at any time take out Jesse and force Walt to do his bidding? He probably recognizes that Jesse has no family, parents, etc and is in need of encouragement rather than threats. If he can build up Jesse, while Walt continues his risky ways, then Jesse becomes his guy and Walt is an unnecessary risk. Gus' options are a young, misguided tweeker, or an old, genius with a DEA brother in law. Which one is less risk for Gus?I think Walt and Hank are definitely going to end up working together somehow. The question will be what does Walt do when that starts - mislead Hank or help get Gus?

 

[Flying V]

Smooth move by an egotistical Walt.

"You... guarded ... Mike?"

He's no genius.

 

[The Noid]

Let's not forget Gus' stance about never trusting an addict. I don't think Gus would hand the keys of the lab over to Jesse anytime soon, if at all. He was tweaking during the car ride, so it's not even like he's recovered and sober for years at this point.

Correct. But why would Gus try to pump him up like this, when he could at any time take out Jesse and force Walt to do his bidding? He probably recognizes that Jesse has no family, parents, etc and is in need of encouragement rather than threats. If he can build up Jesse, while Walt continues his risky ways, then Jesse becomes his guy and Walt is an unnecessary risk. Gus' options are a young, misguided tweeker, or an old, genius with a DEA brother in law. Which one is less risk for Gus?I think Walt and Hank are definitely going to end up working together somehow. The question will be what does Walt do when that starts - mislead Hank or help get Gus?

I think he just wants to have his cooks going smoothly each day and to get Jesse focused on his job, as an employee, and not risking exposing himself and Gus with the funk he was in. This was Gus giving Jesse a "Star of the Week" mug to boost his confidence and make him feel like he has a purpose coming to work.

 

[The Noid]

I think it's perfectly plausible that a liquored up ego-maniac like Walt wouldn't be able to keep his mouth shut when someone else is being called a "genius" for his work. Good kinda-drunk acting by Cranston I thought btw.

WAAAALT!!!!

 

[Flying Spaghetti Monster]

Great episode.

Gus is master at manipulating people.

I think he wants the new guy to learn to cook with Walt in the lab but needed to get Jesse out of the way in order to do so - his solution get Jesse to go out with Mike; also by giving Jesse the illusion that he is valuable to them as pickup men with Mike he will be more likely to be going out with him later. Jesse seeing himself as a HERO might led to Jesse actually preferring to go out with Mike rather than in the lab playing second fiddle to Walt, thereby giving more of an opportunity for the new guy to learn how to cook with Walt.

And when the new guy learns all he needs, Walt will be told that Jesse and Mike got ambushed and Jesse got killed - but what really happened is that Mike killed him.

 

[Aaron Rudnicki]

Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Please tell me this is schtick (bold). BTW, I agree with everything you wrote.

lol

 

[Dvorak]

Great episode.

Gus is master at manipulating people.

I think he wants the new guy to learn to cook with Walt in the lab but needed to get Jesse out of the way in order to do so - his solution get Jesse to go out with Mike; also by giving Jesse the illusion that he is valuable to them as pickup men with Mike he will be more likely to be going out with him later. Jesse seeing himself as a HERO might led to Jesse actually preferring to go out with Mike rather than in the lab playing second fiddle to Walt, thereby giving more of an opportunity for the new guy to learn how to cook with Walt.

And when the new guy learns all he needs, Walt will be told that Jesse and Mike got ambushed and Jesse got killed - but what really happened is that Mike killed him.

If the writers decide to kill off Jesse, I think they'll have it done by Walt's hands. The ultimate conclusion of Walt "Breaking Bad".

 

[boofatty]

Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Please tell me this is schtick (bold). BTW, I agree with everything you wrote.

lol

Wow, just realized what I did. I really did go to college, I swear I did!

 

[boofatty]

Let's not forget Gus' stance about never trusting an addict. I don't think Gus would hand the keys of the lab over to Jesse anytime soon, if at all. He was tweaking during the car ride, so it's not even like he's recovered and sober for years at this point.

Correct. But why would Gus try to pump him up like this, when he could at any time take out Jesse and force Walt to do his bidding? He probably recognizes that Jesse has no family, parents, etc and is in need of encouragement rather than threats. If he can build up Jesse, while Walt continues his risky ways, then Jesse becomes his guy and Walt is an unnecessary risk. Gus' options are a young, misguided tweeker, or an old, genius with a DEA brother in law. Which one is less risk for Gus?I think Walt and Hank are definitely going to end up working together somehow. The question will be what does Walt do when that starts - mislead Hank or help get Gus?

I think he just wants to have his cooks going smoothly each day and to get Jesse focused on his job, as an employee, and not risking exposing himself and Gus with the funk he was in. This was Gus giving Jesse a "Star of the Week" mug to boost his confidence and make him feel like he has a purpose coming to work.

Could be, but that kind of under estimates Gus if you ask me. There must be more to it.IMO, for Hank to wind up tying Gus to Gayle via a fast food bag can be a stretch. I'd like to see how that plays out.

 

[Big Blue Wrecking Crew]

The show has been renewed for a fifth and final season.

http://www.eonline.com/news/watch_with_kristin/breaking_bad_renewed_fifth_final_season/258010

A little more info here...

 

[McJose]

White oriented dance music was pretty bland pre-Madonna.

 

[Carver]

Pretty weak episode, the writing for this show may have plateaued.

Best episode of the season. Walt gets what he's wanted, his family back and the money to support them. But it's not enough anymore. Hank described Heisenberg (who he thinks was Gale) as a combination of Scarface and Mr. Rogers. Walt can't stand that Mr. Rogers lifestyle anymore. He can't bear regular family dinner converations about the car wash and such. He doesn't want to move back in and deal with normal family stuff and be subervient to Skyler. He doesn't want to go back to his old life. Jesse has no pride and is in a downward spiral. So Gus manufactures a reason for him to have pride, and possibly become more loyal to Mike and Gus in the process. Walt has too much pride and puts everyone back in danger because he can't stand for a dead guy to get the credit as a genius that he deserves. Perfect parallel storylines. Brilliant episode.

Great take. You're a smart dude.

 

[Raider Nation]

Sepinwall:

"You're not the guy. You're not capable of being the guy. I had a guy, and now I don't. You're not the guy!" -Mike

Why did Walter White walk away from the company he had helped build, and that could have made him millions?

Pride.

Why did Walt continue cooking meth even after Gretchen and Elliott offered to pay for his treatment and anything else he might need?

Pride.

Why did Walt go back to cooking even after the experimental cancer treatment worked?

Pride.

Why does Walt put Hank back on the trail of Heisenberg when Gale made such an easy fall guy?

Pride.

On "The Sopranos," Dr. Melfi once asked Tony, "How many people have to die for your personal growth?" With "Breaking Bad," it's Walter White's staggering levels of pride and self-regard that have led to so much death and pain and heartache. And the closing scenes of "Shotgun" suggest that his pride will once again get him and others into deep, deep trouble.

And yet the bulk of the episode is about Gus and Mike exploiting Jesse's pride to not only refocus him on his work, but possibly turn him into an ally in their ongoing struggle with Mr. White.

On the Jesse side of things, "Shotgun" is actually a very simple episode (albeit another gorgeous-looking one, taking greater-than-usual pleasure in the desert landscapes). "Breaking Bad" is a process-oriented show, and that story is all process. Jesse rides around with Mike for a day, and gets an idea of how the dead drops work, and all of it is just a build-up for the little play that Gus and Mike stage for Jesse's benefit at the final pick-up spot. A good con requires preparation, and Gus - like Walter White, and like Vince Gilligan, for that matter - is a patient man. He knows that Jesse needs some sense of purpose to shake him out of his nihilist phase. He's aware of how the Walt/Jesse partnership works: that even though they're protective of each other, Walt tends to treat Jesse like garbage, and Jesse lets him because he's hoping for another moment of approval from his surrogate father figure like the one in the hospital room in "One Minute." And in one well-executed chess move, Gus gets Jesse to start taking pride in both his job and the approval of the men who employ him. And given how standoffish and/or bullying Walt is towards Jesse - except on those rare occasions when he has no choice but to be kind - I can easily see a scenario where the next time Walt and Gus are in conflict, Walt doesn't have Jesse as his ally.

And that is why you don't mess with the Chicken Man.

On the other hand, Gus may have another problem to deal with, all because Walt was drunk and miserable and unable to let a dead man get credit for his work.

Though Jesse travels more literal miles over the course of this day, Walt has by far the longer and more complicated emotional journey. We open up with him frantically driving to Los Pollos Hermanos, convinced that either Gus is about to die or he is(*), and making phone calls to Saul and Skyler. But Gus isn't there, Mike reassures him about Jesse while simultaneously keeping Walter off-balance by not telling him what's up, and Walt has to muddle through the cook on his own until it's time to go sign the car wash papers with Skyler. And suddenly the message he left as a possible farewell gets interpreted by a nervous Skyler as a mark of vulnerability and affection from her estranged husband. They fall back in bed together, and the next thing you know, Skyler's making plans for him to move back in.

(*) And being so unconcerned with his future that he gives his full name to the assistant manager.

This is all Walt has wanted since Skyler kicked him out of the house at the end of season 2, and yet it doesn't seem to be something he wants anymore.

Is it Walt's damned pride again? Is he just mad that Skyler is the one taking charge and making the decisions, rather than her giving in to one of his moves? Though Walt's pride is obviously at work at the Schrader dinner table, in this case I think it's something more complicated. Walt can be arrogant and self-deceptive much of the time, but I think the events of these last few episodes have made him realize just how unstable his life has become. He's in a dark place, working for a man he believes intends to kill him at the first opportunity, and he no longer feels comfortable slipping back into his old life, bantering with Skyler and Walter Jr., being part of jovial dinner conversation at Hank and Marie's house. He needs all the wine he can get at that dinner party because of the events of the previous day he, but he also needs to have it alone in the kitchen. This isn't his life anymore, these aren't his people, and this is all too much to handle. And the combination of his nerves, and the booze (recall how close he came to confessing about Jane when Jesse slipped him a mickey in "Fly") and hearing Hank describe Gale the copycat as a genius five-star chef - not to mention one who wasted his intellect on meth when he could have been improving the world - leads him to blurt out his theory that Gale isn't the man Hank has been looking for.

Hank was out. He'd found closure, was done looking for his white whale. But now he's on the trail again, and while that sense of purpose has clearly improved things between himself and Marie, it's also going to put both Hank and his brother-in-law back into harm's way.

All over stupid pride.

Some other thoughts:

• Lots of speculation last week over whether Hank genuinely suspected Walt while they were discussing the "WW" reference in Gale's notebook. And I imagine there will be some more after that dinner scene, and the look on Hank's face as Walt is convincing him that Gale's not the guy. While there's obviously meant to be tension in both scenes, I don't think Hank has Walt on the brain in either one - at least not at the forefront of his brain. Maybe deep down he's cataloging all these inconsistencies, and the ways in which Walt would make such an obvious Heisenberg candidate. But up front, he still thinks of Walt as his goofy, milquetoast brother-in-law - even his reaction to Walt's new identity as a gambler is more a source of amusement than suspicion - and I think the look in this episode was just Hank pondering whether Walt is right about Gale, and then about whether he wants to take action about it. I have no doubt that there will come a point where Hank gets wise to Walt, but I think it has to come right near the end of either the series or just of Hank's life. Even though Hank is now wrapped up in this mess because Walt is paying his medical bills, I still don't see Hank or the show continuing for much longer past the point where he puts the black hat onto Mr. White.

• This episode's director, Michelle MacLaren, was also responsible for the shootout in "One Minute," and I smiled to see that Jesse, like Hank, recognizes the value of a car in reverse as a weapon when you don't have a gun and your opponent does.

• Gale is described in this episode as "like Scarface had sex with Mr. Rogers," which is an amusing twist on Gilligan's mission statement for the series about taking Mr. Chips and slowly turning him into Scarface.

• The song in the pair of Jesse and Walt montages is "1977" by Ana Tijoux.

• Victor's replacement, Tyrus, hasn't had much to do yet, but it's clear he's very much cut from the Gus/Mike cloth, acting without talking except when absolutely necessary, and projecting an aura of professional cool that puts Jesse and/or Walt ill-at-ease.

• For that matter, I love Mike in this episode. So unflappable, so understandably terrifying to Jesse (who would have had no shot whatsoever trying to attack with his keys), and yet in the end it's revealed that he doesn't quite understand Gus's endgame. Gus needs Mike to protect the operation, but Mike needs Gus for big-picture thinking. Good combination.

• Love that Walter Jr. is drinking out of a Beneke mug as he talks to Walt about Walt moving back in - no matter what happens between Walter and Skyler now, there's always going to be the whole "I.F.T." business between them.

 

[Sundays Rule]

The Jesse Walt montage was so money. The editing and camera work on this show never ceases to amaze me after 4 years.

 

[wildbill]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?

I thought at first that Mike had set Jesse up, but then I remembered that Mike wouldn't even let Jesse smoke in his car, there's no way he's going to let him get his head blown off in there.

 

[Walton Goggins]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?

I thought at first that Mike had set Jesse up, but then I remembered that Mike wouldn't even let Jesse smoke in his car, there's no way he's going to let him get his head blown off in there.

Jesse smoked after the incident. If Jesse was going to die it would have been done in the desert. Gus doesn't need anyone to do his job (kill) for him.

 

[The Shizzle]

Need to think about it a bit more but I am developing a hunch that Skyler is working with the feds unbeknownst to the DEA.

Your quote hit me late, but makes absolute sense. Why would they write the whole story line with her old boss & coloring his books. Gotta think about that one!!

 

[⚡DEADHEAD⚡]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Well described. This set of scenes and their purpose was genius, IMO.

 

[Raider Nation]

#1 fan of "Breaking Bad"...

Who posted in: Breaking Bad on AMC

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[⚡DEADHEAD⚡]

So Gus made Jesse feel like a hero so that he feels apart of the team and will start caring about his job?

The scene with Walt get liquored up and raising suspicions with Hank was ridiculous. No need to write it that way. We already know Walt is very insecure. No need to drive the point home.

Would be awesome if Skylar was working with the Feds. Think it's unlikely though. Why bring Walt back into the house if she feels he is in such peril.

In other words, why bring danger to her home? It's a good question. She may not be working with the Feds voluntarily. The Feds could have approached her and said the game's up unless you help us.That exchange last night when she insisted on complete transparency seemed slightly out of place (not a criticism of the writing). I just don't know what Skyler gets out of full transparency, although she may be fulfilling her control-freak side or she doesn't trust Walt. Outside of this, why is it necessary? It COULD be necessary because she's working with the Feds. And bringing him back into the home, which might be bugged, under surveillance and under Fed protection could be a good way for the Feds to get the evidence they need to go after (or learn of?) Gus, Mike, Saul, and the rest of the operation.

I mean let's put it this way. If Hank finds out tomorrow that Walt is Heisenberg, wouldn't the Fed thing to do be to plan an operation and try to sweep up the entire operation?

 

[PlasmaDogPlasma]

#1 fan of "Breaking Bad"...

Who posted in: Breaking Bad on AMC

Member name - Posts

Raider Nation 120

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And here I thought I was posting too much.

 

[Flying Spaghetti Monster]

• The song in the pair of Jesse and Walt montages is "1977" by Ana Tijoux.

Here are the lyrics in Spanish and English.

Interesting lyrics.

 

[Raider Nation]

• The song in the pair of Jesse and Walt montages is "1977" by Ana Tijoux.

The way I interpret those lyrics is that Flynn will be killed in a tragic steamroller accident.

 

[Scrooloose]

• The song in the pair of Jesse and Walt montages is "1977" by Ana Tijoux.

never thought I would say these words: "I love hot latina rap"

 

[Daywalker]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Well described. This set of scenes and their purpose was genius, IMO.

I'm not sure. Jesse not suspecting Mike/Gus at all was a bit much. They should have had Jesse confront Mike in front of the liquor store when he picked him up. Then have Mike say, "I could have killed you at any point today. I could have led you into a dark building and finished you. Why would I have two thugs try to ambush you out in the open?"Nitpicking a bit I know. But would have been much cleaner that way.

 

[Charlie Frown]

Thought the music from tonight's episode was awesome. Loved it. Good episode too, IMHO. Although Walt getting liquored-up and getting Hank thinking more about the "mastermind" or genius behind the cook felt a little contrived. But hey, I suppose it keeps the plot moving along...

Love the look on Skyler's face in that scene.

 

[Sam Quentin]

I think it's perfectly plausible that a liquored up ego-maniac like Walt wouldn't be able to keep his mouth shut when someone else is being called a "genius" for his work. Good kinda-drunk acting by Cranston I thought btw.

The other aspect of Walt's character and why he broke bad is kind of a Falling Down-esque #### you to the world. When Hank was talking about the good that this genius could have accomplished, I think that this stoked Walt's inner resentment he has held all of these years for not being all he could have been. I'm interested in the back story of how this brilliant chemist became a mediocre high school teacher. Walt is angry and has been from day one of the show and the degrading life he had lived compared to say Gretchen and Elliot.

 

[Charlie Frown]

So Gus made Jesse feel like a hero so that he feels apart of the team and will start caring about his job?

The scene with Walt get liquored up and raising suspicions with Hank was ridiculous. No need to write it that way. We already know Walt is very insecure. No need to drive the point home.

Would be awesome if Skylar was working with the Feds. Think it's unlikely though. Why bring Walt back into the house if she feels he is in such peril.

In other words, why bring danger to her home? It's a good question. She may not be working with the Feds voluntarily. The Feds could have approached her and said the game's up unless you help us.That exchange last night when she insisted on complete transparency seemed slightly out of place (not a criticism of the writing). I just don't know what Skyler gets out of full transparency, although she may be fulfilling her control-freak side or she doesn't trust Walt. Outside of this, why is it necessary? It COULD be necessary because she's working with the Feds. And bringing him back into the home, which might be bugged, under surveillance and under Fed protection could be a good way for the Feds to get the evidence they need to go after (or learn of?) Gus, Mike, Saul, and the rest of the operation.

I mean let's put it this way. If Hank finds out tomorrow that Walt is Heisenberg, wouldn't the Fed thing to do be to plan an operation and try to sweep up the entire operation?

Walter IS just the cook. I could see them wanting to take out the mastermind of this HUGE operation out rather than just the cook for sure. They probably would have very little to go on at this stage as far as who is running the show. Gus' operation has to be one of the largest in the country I bet.

 

[Please See Mine]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Well described. This set of scenes and their purpose was genius, IMO.

I'm not sure. Jesse not suspecting Mike/Gus at all was a bit much. They should have had Jesse confront Mike in front of the liquor store when he picked him up. Then have Mike say, "I could have killed you at any point today. I could have led you into a dark building and finished you. Why would I have two thugs try to ambush you out in the open?"Nitpicking a bit I know. But would have been much cleaner that way.

And maybe at the dinner table, Walt could have said: "I am a prideful man. I didn't take the money from Elliott because I am too proud. And I will ruin everyone else's life because of my pride. Do you understand that? Thanks for watching. See you on my next series. By the way - pride."

 

[Please See Mine]

One thing from the prior episode that I don't think was covered (maybe because it was obvious) -

Did Jesse not care about the money being stolen because he had just completely hit rock bottom and was totally nihilistic or did he expect Mike et al. to be watching the house and not ever let anything happen to it. I assumed the former, but his reaction to them returning the money and knowing response about the blindfold made me wonder if he understood something bigger about the whole thing.

 

[Walton Goggins]

One thing from the prior episode that I don't think was covered (maybe because it was obvious) - Did Jesse not care about the money being stolen because he had just completely hit rock bottom and was totally nihilistic or did he expect Mike et al. to be watching the house and not ever let anything happen to it. I assumed the former, but his reaction to them returning the money and knowing response about the blindfold made me wonder if he understood something bigger about the whole thing.

he killed Gale and proceeded to hit rock bottom. Remember last episode when the detective asked Hank if he thought Jesse killed Gale and he said he didn't think he was capable of doing that. After killing him he snapped.

 

[Walton Goggins]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Well described. This set of scenes and their purpose was genius, IMO.

I'm not sure. Jesse not suspecting Mike/Gus at all was a bit much. They should have had Jesse confront Mike in front of the liquor store when he picked him up. Then have Mike say, "I could have killed you at any point today. I could have led you into a dark building and finished you. Why would I have two thugs try to ambush you out in the open?"Nitpicking a bit I know. But would have been much cleaner that way.

Have you watched the show? When has Mike ever talked like that or that much? If you've noticed Mike says very little and what you have wanted him to say sounds like some rambling chick.I think it's clear to Jesse that Mike could snap his neck anytime he wants so why does he need to waste his time saying the obvious. That's why Jesse never thought for once that the men with shotguns were hired by Mike.

 

[Flying V]

Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Please tell me this is schtick (bold). BTW, I agree with everything you wrote.

lol

Wow, just realized what I did. I really did go to college, I swear I did!

Reminds me of the guy who once referenced the Noble Piece Prize.

 

[TobiasFunke]

How did Jesse know that those guys were not sent by Gus and why go back and get Mike? How did he know that Mike didnt set him up?How did Gus know that Jesse wouldnt just take all the money and leave?

I think that's at least partially why they drove around all day. Early in the day, Jesse was suspicious of Mike. By the end of the day, he relaxed and came around. By the end of the day, if Jesse still believed that Mike/Gus were out to get him, he may have done things differently.If Jesse was to think that they were Gus' guys, why would they approach the car with a shotgun and block the exit? Remember that Jesse's seen some real gangsta action now.For Gus, if Jesse decides to take the money and run, don't you think that Mike would have no trouble getting to him later on? Plus, Jesse's a millionaire now, he doesn't care about money, remember?In part it was a test, and an opportunity for Jesse to be the hero like they had planned. If Jesse tries to rob them, Mike would take care of it anyway, so little risk there. To me this at least validates Jesse's role in the operation for Gus and Mike; he's not a complete screw up. The real story is how Walt acted, and the question is will Walt's paranoia turn to the question of does Gus want to get rid of Walt and keep Jesse. Jesse might be less of a PITA than the pre-madonna Walt.

Well described. This set of scenes and their purpose was genius, IMO.

I'm not sure. Jesse not suspecting Mike/Gus at all was a bit much. They should have had Jesse confront Mike in front of the liquor store when he picked him up. Then have Mike say, "I could have killed you at any point today. I could have led you into a dark building and finished you. Why would I have two thugs try to ambush you out in the open?"Nitpicking a bit I know. But would have been much cleaner that way.

And maybe at the dinner table, Walt could have said: "I am a prideful man. I didn't take the money from Elliott because I am too proud. And I will ruin everyone else's life because of my pride. Do you understand that? Thanks for watching. See you on my next series. By the way - pride."

I mean, come on. Also, there's absolutely no reason that Jesse would suspect that Mike/Gus set the whole thing up. I'm guessing most viewers didn't think that, or maybe thought it was a possibility but not certain. And that's with the benefit of knowing all of the characters' motivations, as well as the fact that it's a television show that thrives on plot twists of that nature, as well as the fact that Jesse is a main character on that television show and it has 1.5 seasons left. To criticize the show because it portrayed Jesse as somehow less clever than the omniscient viewer is ridiculous.

 

[pantherclub]

You would be naive to think that Walt doesnt kill Hank at some point. Maybe even with Skylers blessing. The whole "secrets" and not keeping them from each other scene is going to differently come into play.

 

[Arizona Ron]

You would be naive to think that Walt doesnt kill Hank at some point. Maybe even with Skylers blessing. The whole "secrets" and not keeping them from each other scene is going to differently come into play.

I hope you stretched before that reach.