7 Breaking Bad Episodes That Were Controversial
Pushing Boundaries in Television
Breaking Bad stands as one of the most acclaimed television series of all time, captivating audiences with its gripping narrative and complex characters. The show's 62-episode run delivered consistently high-quality storytelling, earning widespread critical praise and a devoted fanbase.
Despite its overall success, Breaking Bad was not without its controversial moments, with certain episodes sparking debate and divided opinions among viewers. These contentious installments often pushed boundaries, explored challenging themes, or made bold narrative choices that some fans found polarizing. While still maintaining the show's high standards, these episodes generated discussions about character motivations, plot developments, and the series' overall direction.
1) Ozymandias
"Ozymandias" is widely regarded as one of Breaking Bad's most intense and controversial episodes. It aired on September 15, 2013, as the fourteenth episode of the final season.
The episode features several pivotal moments that shocked viewers and sparked heated discussions. Walt's phone call to Skyler, while under surveillance, was particularly divisive. Some interpreted it as a calculated move to protect his family, while others saw it as a final act of manipulation.
Another controversial scene was Walt's kidnapping of his infant daughter, Holly. This moment highlighted the depths of Walt's desperation and moral decay, leaving audiences uncomfortable and conflicted.
The death of Hank Schrader also proved highly contentious. Many fans were upset by the loss of this beloved character, while others praised the bold storytelling decision.
"Ozymandias" pushed the boundaries of what viewers expected from television drama. Its unflinching portrayal of consequences and moral decay challenged audiences and cemented Breaking Bad's reputation for provocative storytelling.
The episode's title, referencing Percy Bysshe Shelley's poem, adds another layer of meaning. It alludes to the ultimate downfall of Walt's empire, mirroring the poem's theme of fallen power and legacy.
2) Fly
"Fly" stands out as one of Breaking Bad's most polarizing episodes. Directed by Rian Johnson, this bottle episode takes place entirely within the meth lab as Walter White obsessively hunts a fly he views as a contaminant.
The episode's narrow focus and departure from the show's typical pacing sparked controversy among viewers. Some praised its deep character exploration and symbolism, while others found it slow and uneventful.
"Fly" received the lowest IMDb rating of any Breaking Bad or Better Call Saul episode, though still scoring a respectable 7.8 out of 10. The confined setting was partly a cost-cutting measure, but it also allowed for intense character study.
Series creator Vince Gilligan defended the episode, acknowledging the mixed reception. He emphasized its importance in developing Walt and Jesse's relationship and exploring Walt's deteriorating mental state.
Despite the controversy, "Fly" remains a memorable and often-discussed part of Breaking Bad's legacy. Its unique approach and divisive nature continue to spark debates among fans years after its initial airing.
3) Felina
"Felina," the series finale of Breaking Bad, sparked debate among fans and critics alike. As the concluding episode, it faced high expectations and scrutiny.
Some viewers praised the episode for providing closure to Walter White's story arc. It showed him tying up loose ends and facing the consequences of his actions.
Others criticized "Felina" for being too neat and convenient. They argued that Walt's ability to accomplish so much in his final hours strained credibility.
The episode's tone also divided opinions. Some appreciated its quieter, more reflective moments, while others felt it lacked the intensity of earlier installments.
Walt's final interactions with Skyler and Jesse were particularly contentious. Debates arose over whether these scenes provided satisfying resolutions or undermined previous character development.
The finale's portrayal of Walt's death also generated discussion. Some viewed it as a fitting end, while others found it too sympathetic to a character who had committed numerous crimes.
Despite the controversies, "Felina" remains a significant topic of discussion among Breaking Bad fans. Its reception highlights the challenges of concluding a beloved and complex series.
4) Box Cutter
"Box Cutter" is the fourth season premiere of Breaking Bad that aired on July 17, 2011. The episode features a tense and shocking scene involving Gus Fring using a box cutter.
This scene garnered significant attention for its graphic violence and psychological intensity. Viewers were stunned by Gus's calculated actions and the sudden brutality on display.
The episode explores the escalating power dynamics between Walter White, Jesse Pinkman, and Gus Fring. It sets a dark tone for the season ahead and raises the stakes for all characters involved.
Critics praised "Box Cutter" for its gripping storytelling and masterful buildup of suspense. The performances, particularly Giancarlo Esposito as Gus, were highly commended.
Some viewers found the violence excessive and disturbing. However, others argued it was necessary to convey the gravity of the situation and Gus's ruthlessness.
The episode remains a notable and oft-discussed part of Breaking Bad's legacy. It exemplifies the show's ability to shock audiences while advancing character development and plot.
5) Pilot
The pilot episode of Breaking Bad sparked controversy due to its stark contrast with the rest of the series. Some viewers found it jarring compared to later episodes, noting differences in cinematography, pacing, and overall tone.
The pilot was filmed months before the rest of season one, with a different crew including a new cinematographer and art director. This resulted in a distinct visual style that set it apart from subsequent episodes.
While many praise the pilot as one of the best in television history, others argue it feels disconnected from the show's eventual direction. The extended filming time and potentially lower budget contributed to these differences.
The episode introduced Walter White's cancer diagnosis and initial foray into methamphetamine production. This abrupt shift in the protagonist's life shocked some viewers, who found the transition from mild-mannered teacher to criminal too sudden.
Despite the controversy, the pilot successfully established the series' premise and characters. It laid the groundwork for Breaking Bad's exploration of morality and the consequences of choices, themes that would define the show's legacy.
6) Crawl Space
"Crawl Space" is a pivotal episode in Breaking Bad's fourth season that sparked debate among viewers. The intense final scene, where Walter White breaks down laughing maniacally in his crawl space, left a lasting impression on audiences.
Some fans consider this episode a masterpiece, praising its tension-building and Bryan Cranston's powerful performance. They argue it marks a crucial turning point in Walt's descent into villainy.
Others feel the episode is overrated compared to other standout installments in the series. They contend that while the closing moments are memorable, the rest of the episode doesn't quite match that intensity.
The controversial nature of "Crawl Space" stems from its placement within the season. It serves as a bridge between major plot developments, which some viewers found less engaging than the more action-packed episodes surrounding it.
Despite differing opinions, "Crawl Space" remains a frequently discussed episode among Breaking Bad fans. Its impact on Walt's character arc and the series' overall narrative continues to fuel debates years after its original airing.
7) Half Measures
"Half Measures" is a pivotal episode in Breaking Bad's third season. It features intense character development and a shocking climax that left viewers stunned.
The episode's title comes from Mike's powerful monologue about the dangers of taking half measures. This scene provides insight into Mike's character and foreshadows future events.
Jesse's storyline takes center stage as he grapples with the drug dealers who killed his friend Combo. His plan for revenge creates tension between him and Walt.
Walt's actions at the end of the episode mark a significant turning point. His decision to run down the drug dealers with his car to save Jesse demonstrates his growing ruthlessness.
The episode's writing and performances received critical acclaim. Aaron Paul won an Emmy for his portrayal of Jesse in this episode.
"Half Measures" is considered one of Breaking Bad's strongest episodes. It showcases the show's ability to blend character development with intense, unpredictable plot twists.
Cultural Impact and Viewer Reactions
Breaking Bad sparked intense reactions from audiences and critics alike. Its controversial content and morally ambiguous characters prompted widespread discussion about ethics, violence, and societal norms in television.
Public Response to Violence and Ethics
Many viewers found Breaking Bad's graphic violence and drug-related content disturbing. Some praised the show for its unflinching portrayal of the criminal underworld, while others criticized it for potentially glamorizing illegal activities.
The character of Walter White polarized audiences. His transformation from sympathetic protagonist to ruthless antagonist challenged viewers' moral compasses. Online forums and social media buzzed with debates about whether to root for Walt or condemn his actions.
Certain episodes drew particularly strong reactions. The plane crash storyline in season 2 and the murder of Jesse's girlfriend Jane sparked controversy among fans and critics.
Media Commentary and Criticism
Critics largely praised Breaking Bad for its cinematic quality and complex storytelling. However, some raised concerns about its potential societal impact.
Several publications examined the show's depiction of the methamphetamine trade. Articles questioned whether Breaking Bad might inadvertently promote drug use or manufacture.
The series also faced scrutiny for its portrayal of Latinos and the drug trade in the American Southwest. Some critics argued it reinforced negative stereotypes.
Breaking Bad's critical acclaim culminated in numerous awards and accolades. It won 16 Primetime Emmy Awards and was named one of the greatest TV series of all time by various publications.
Character Developments Stirring Debate
Breaking Bad's complex character arcs sparked intense discussions among viewers. The show's nuanced portrayals of moral decay and shifting motivations became focal points of controversy.
Walter White's Moral Complexity
Walter White's transformation from mild-mannered chemistry teacher to ruthless drug kingpin captivated audiences. His initial motivations seemed noble - providing for his family after a terminal cancer diagnosis. As the series progressed, Walt's actions became increasingly questionable.
He manipulated Jesse, poisoned a child, and ordered multiple murders. Viewers debated whether Walt was still a sympathetic antihero or had become the show's true villain. His famous declaration "I am the one who knocks" marked a turning point in how many perceived his character.
Walt's descent into darkness challenged viewers' moral compasses. Some argued his actions were justified given his circumstances, while others saw him as irredeemable.
Skyler White's Polarizing Role
Skyler White, Walt's wife, became one of Breaking Bad's most divisive characters. Initially portrayed as an obstacle to Walt's schemes, Skyler's role evolved in unexpected ways.
Her eventual complicity in Walt's criminal enterprise sparked heated debates. Some viewers sympathized with her difficult position, trapped between protecting her family and confronting Walt's criminality. Others criticized her as hypocritical or self-serving.
Skyler's reactions to Walt's activities - from shock to acceptance to active participation - reflected the show's exploration of moral gray areas. Her character challenged traditional expectations of a supportive TV wife, leading to both praise and criticism from fans.
