Breaking bad

Definition

'Breaking Bad' is a critically acclaimed television series that follows the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, as he descends into the criminal underworld. This narrative arc exemplifies innovations in storytelling, showcasing complex character development and moral ambiguity that challenge traditional notions of right and wrong, while also contributing to the evolution of serialized storytelling in television.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Breaking Bad' premiered in 2008 and concluded in 2013 after five seasons, significantly impacting the television landscape and popular culture.
2. The show received numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards, showcasing its critical acclaim and strong performances, especially by Bryan Cranston as Walter White.
3. 'Breaking Bad' employs a serialized format that allows for deeper character exploration and long-term storytelling, as opposed to episodic formats that focus on self-contained narratives.
4. The series challenges viewers' perceptions of morality by portraying Walter White's transformation from a sympathetic character to a ruthless antihero over time.
5. 'Breaking Bad' has inspired various spin-offs and prequels, most notably 'Better Call Saul,' further expanding its universe and demonstrating the enduring impact of its narrative complexity.

Review Questions

• How does 'Breaking Bad' exemplify innovations in narrative complexity and serialization in television?
  • 'Breaking Bad' showcases narrative complexity through its multi-layered characters and intricate plotlines that evolve over time. The series breaks away from traditional episodic formats by employing serialization, allowing viewers to witness Walter White's gradual moral decline and the consequences of his choices. This approach not only deepens character development but also keeps audiences engaged through suspenseful storytelling that pays off across multiple episodes.
• Discuss the role of the antihero in 'Breaking Bad' and how it reflects the evolution of major TV genres.
  • 'Breaking Bad' redefined the antihero archetype by presenting Walter White as a flawed character whose morally questionable actions evoke both empathy and repulsion. This portrayal reflects the evolution of major TV genres, particularly drama, where complex characters have become central to storytelling. The series exemplifies how audiences have grown more accepting of antiheroes, challenging traditional genre conventions while emphasizing nuanced character development.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Breaking Bad' on the landscape of serialized storytelling and its influence on future television shows.
  • 'Breaking Bad' had a profound impact on serialized storytelling by setting new standards for character depth, thematic complexity, and narrative cohesion. Its success demonstrated that audiences are willing to invest time in long-form narratives that prioritize character arcs over episodic plots. This influence can be seen in numerous subsequent shows that adopt similar storytelling techniques, utilizing intricate plots and morally ambiguous characters to create compelling viewing experiences that resonate with modern audiences.

Related terms

Antihero: 'Antihero' refers to a central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic attributes, often displaying morally ambiguous behavior that complicates the narrative.

Narrative Arc: 'Narrative Arc' describes the structured path a story takes, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, which helps to develop characters and themes throughout a series.

Showrunner: 'Showrunner' is the individual responsible for the overall creative direction of a television series, overseeing writing, production, and often influencing character development and narrative structure.'