Corey LaQuay
Photography Editor
The progression of Breaking Bad, starting from its humbled beginnings as a story of a high school chemistry teacher trying to provide for his family, escalated into the development of a crystal methamphetamine empire. The fifth and final season of AMC’s hit series has arrived, and the legacy of Heisenberg is soon to reach a dramatic conclusion.
In seasons one through four, the viewer is introduced to chemistry whiz Walter White, played by Emmy award-winning actor Bryan Cranston. A family man, White is diagnosed with cancer and faced with the challenge of providing for his family when he does eventually pass away. The high school teacher pairs up with former student and drug dealer, Jesse, played by Aaron Paul who has also won a bevy of awards for his role in Breaking Bad. Over the course of their five-season history, they worked their way up the ladder to create the largest drug business on the west coast.
The secrecy of the crystal meth empire stood no chance against the scrutinizing investigation of his stepbrother, Hank, who was an agent for the Drug Enforcement Agency. In a failed attempt to cover his tracks, one last piece of the crystal meth puzzle led Hank right to Walt. In order to land Walt in prison, Hank is on the search for evidence that could lead to his arrest.
“I think what Breaking Bad brings is fundamental transformation of its main character. To that end, the mandate here has always been take our hero and turn him into a bad guy throughout the life of the series. So I think a different brand of storytelling in that sense is what we’ve hopefully accomplished…” said producer of Breaking Bad, Vince Gilligan in an interview with AMC.
Breaking Bad won the 2013 Emmy award for best drama series, and has been nominated four out of five years for best drama series since its original airing in 2008. The popularity of Breaking Bad has risen to immense heights, becoming one of the most talked-about shows on television.
Walter White’s transition from a loving husband, father and teacher to a hardened criminal, drug lord and businessman is an interesting juxtaposition that contradicts his overall appearance and personality. Over the course of five seasons, the story develops around White and focuses on how his decisions influence the actions and lives of those around him.
“I feel like Walt made the transition after he watched Jesse’s girlfriend Jane die after overdosing. That’s when he truly ‘broke bad,’ ” said senior, Ansu Kaba.
With the season finale just one episode away, there’s no telling what might happen leading up to the conclusion of the show. Things have been heating up in preparation for what lies in store for Walter White.
