The nice thing Jenna, you can change the channel. Perhaps the realities of what this show illustrate are too much for you, because in all actuality your life consists of nothing more than work, church, and tv... boring tv. Try staying up until the nightly news is on, this show isn't one man's fanatasy, this type of stuff is actually going on a couple miles past the last cornfield. Or in some cases, in the cornfield.

I have seen no glamour, nor have I seen anything that leads me to believe that this program is anything more than a well crafted story, with some very real truths encased within.

So, cancel the cable, or at least every channel other than the one the 700 club is on. Grab your Bible, and pray for us sinners, and be sure to send a check to me, I know the lord, and for $50 I can get you into heaven.

Oh, Dan. You have no idea. You obviously did not read my entire comment because if you had, you would have read that I AM used to seeing and hearing these kinds of things in real life, the news, etc. Which is why I did say that I didn't believe they should be shown in a made-up television series. We see enough of it in real life.

If you would have read my whole comment, you would have known that I wasn't able to change the channel at the time. Also, this is a very tiny apartment and I wouldn't have gone so far as to leave the apartment, I'm not that much of a bitch.

If you would have read my whole comment, you would know that I am usually extremely tolerant of anything I see portrayed in television or movies. I understand that "this type of stuff is actually going on a couple miles past the last cornfield", however, I highly doubt that there are chemistry teachers dissolving bodies with Hydroflouric Acid.

I thought this was an open discussion for people to allow their thoughts and opinions to be accepted. Apparently not. I'm extremely sorry to have disagreed with you about this show, but I am entitled to my opinions and I shouldn't be chastised for them by anyone, including you.

I watched the show to give it a chance, because everyone seems to like it so much. I didn't like it, and that was it. There was no need for such a reply from you. If you disagree with me, it is fine, but next time, try not to display your feelings so offensively. I never brought up one thing about religion. Religion has nothing to do with it. Why would you try to offend me without knowing what I believe and trying to understand who I am first?

I don't believe in any religion, by the way, since you seem so concerned about that, and I never claim to be so clean as to not have witnessed or taken part in any of the activities the show portrays, but I've grown up a lot since high school.

@jenna: Of course I'm far from impartial here. But I'd like to weigh in nonetheless. As to your complaints about the gore and the immorality. I would argue we're meant to see what's going on as immoral--it's part of the tragedy of the character study.

As far as the gore goes, turn on any of the forensic detective shows plastered all over the major networks and I think you'll see much more gruesome setups that have no purpose whatsoever. I do not condone this at all, but simply point out that network television dishes out much worse. And this is a cable channel. Now, agreed, that scene might have been gruesome, but it's a gruesome reminder that these are indeed horrible decisions that Walt is making with horrible consequences. I think if you read our interview with Vince GIlligan, you'll get a better understanding of what I'm saying (http://blogs.amctv.com/breaking-bad/2008/02/qa-vince-gillig.php) and (http://blogs.amctv.com/breaking-bad/2008/02/qa-vince-gillig-1.php)

I think the point is not to glamorize, glorify, or even portray the show as "pay attention because this is happening in your back yard." I think we're meant to watch a character study of a man who falls apart. Given that perspective, I think what you might call the "immorality" and "gore" are central to understanding Walt as a character, and not at all meaningless. In fact, they're heartbreaking.

Out of curiosity, why does your boyfriend like the show/insist you watch it?

Clayton,
You are right about the forensics shows, but I do think that the "gore" is shown in two very different contexts.

Also, I do like to see that Jesse Pinkman has a softer side to him, and that Walt does have a conscience. When he did kill the man they kept in the basement, he didn't really have a choice, but he could have stayed out of it in the first place. I do like to see how their personalities and where they went wrong sort of unravel, but I don't like to see Walt's family lied to and misled. I guess it makes me nervous that they are going to be hurt because of him, and Skylar being pregnant makes it all the worse.

I wasn't complaining about cable TV. I'm not sheltered and I'm not an idiot. I'm just a little sensitive to those kinds of things. But as to why my boyfriend likes it so much, he says there was nothing else on and it was entertaining. He also likes that the hydroflouric acid eats through everything but plastic. Now we know.

You are right about those things being critical to understanding Walt and even Jesse, I think I was just extremely surprised to see a huge chunk of melted body fall through the ceiling and that Walt didn't flinch. All he said was "what were you asking me?" Yet, he has a son and a wife and a baby on the way and people who care deeply about him, but doesn't flinch when this body falls in front of him...

I wrote the first comment after watching one episode, and I probably should have watched another but I was just so mad about the first one that I didn't want to watch another. But after watching the end of the second episode, I liked to see where Jesse came from and I would like to see where he went wrong. Maybe now that the murdering is over, we will see a little less of the rotted bodies and a little more of Jesse and Walt's consciences.

Thanks for not being like the other guy :)

This might be the best dramatic series ever.

I have no tolerance for people who dont have enough taste to differentiate between the horrible and the very good.

I dont have the patience to explain that a show that shares broad elements with shows of horrible schlock can be truly great.

I will spend no more time reading even one line written by a person who could be so blind to quality writing, excellent acting and gutsy innovation appearing OF ALL PLACES on her television.

Greatness can produce strange reactions in people.

OK back to the real comments that have been posted here!

I am usually very sensitive to violence and gore in entertainment.. it's not very entertaining to me. (I've worked as a Coroner) Believe me.. reality is much worse.
The actor portraying Mr. White, however has an acting skill similar to Robert Deniro, where "less is more". I understood from watching the scene that he WAS horrified. The grim, miserable look on his face while cleaning it up said it all.

To me, the violence and gore aren't gratuitous at all. The show leaves us thinking more about social issues..like how a professional in America with an advanced college degree can end up struggling financially and putting treatments on a credit card... because he wanted to teach.

This show also left me thinking about Men..how they think...the fine line they walk in our society, in families,and in marriage. Just when it seems like Mr. White is doing the most selfish and cowardly thing to his wife (saying No to treatment)...he's actually doing the most selfless thing(refusing to leave her drowning in debt).

I'm watching this stupid show right now. My boyfriend likes it. I am tolerable of a lot of things, but the murder, cheating, graphics, terrible morals and language of this show are unsuitable for any sort of television.

("Lighten up Francis").

I am 21 years old, so I'm not someone who is not used to seeing or hearing the types of things the show portrays. Decomposing bodies, chunks of disintegrated human remains, blood pouring everywhere? Not to mention the lack of morality. Breaking Bad is the antithesis of a good show. It is absolutely disturbing.

(That's kind of the point. Good wrighting and execution should take you on a roller coaster, be it T.V., a movie, a book, etc, Be it happy, sad, or totally disturbing).

Whoever would create such a television series must have some serious problems. So, Vince Gilligan, I hope you're happy for ruining my Sunday.

(Don't you have no control over your own life? And I'm not speaking of controlling your boyfriend. Not Vince's fault.)

I am now in the worst mood I have ever been in. I can see nothing that can be gained from watching this series. Unless you're into wasting hours of your life, this show is not for you.

(To each there own. You found the time to bitch about it,...so,......)

I am not saying I want another 7th Heaven, but would a little integrity be too much to ask for? We already see WAY too much violence and immorality in the world we live in. I don't believe it should be portrayed this strongly in a made-up show. I understand that I do not have to watch this show, but right now I am being forced to as I have asked about 5 times to have it shut off already.

(For the love of God, Plug in your ipod and read a book.)

Arguing on the internet is pointless. You are VERY intitled to your opinion. I DO respect that. But it seems you're directing it to the wrong place. Taking it out on your boyfriend isn't gonna help. Prolly just tell you to be quiet. Prolly has. That's why you're venting your gripe, here.

Best bet, to save the planet, is start at home. Tie the tubes, release your boyfriend from all the screaming, and get the meds adjusted before the schizophreniareally grabs hold. Because there's no replacing a missing chromosome.

Sorry. You started it. IT'S A TV SHOW. A reflection of a crappy world, but still a T.V. show.

Jenna-I guess you were locked down like
Crazy 8; that's why you were forced to watch?
Read a book, take a bath, cook a meal for
the next day:hello! There's lots of things you
could do if you don't like a certain program. And
then your turn around and spend even more time
setting up an account here to comment on this
program? When I don't like something, I change
the channel and move on but tv isn't the only
thing out there. Read a book!

Breaking Bad...a bad show.
Huh, you know that is really too perfect of a tagline.
All joking aside, the title afterall comes from the American Southwest slang phrase "to break bad," meaning to challenge conventions, to defy authority and to skirt the edges of the law (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breaking_Bad) so I don't think there was any surprise in terms of what to expect. What we should think about is not how could someone put Breaking Bad on the air, but why there is such a fascination in it. My reason for watching is it being a dark comedy, if you must know.

Lighten up on Jenna, all. That's what these forums are for--like the show, hate the show. Everyone has a voice. I think what she's talking about disturbed all of us. We were just a bit more willing to see where it all was going.

But, if you read closer, so is she! She's conceded she needs to watch a bit more before drawing any definitive conclusions:

"You are right about those things being critical to understanding Walt and even Jesse, I think I was just extremely surprised to see a huge chunk of melted body fall through the ceiling...I wrote the first comment after watching one episode, and I probably should have watched another but I was just so mad about the first one that I didn't want to watch another. But after watching the end of the second episode, I liked to see where Jesse came from and I would like to see where he went wrong. Maybe now that the murdering is over, we will see a little less of the rotted bodies and a little more of Jesse and Walt's consciences. "

Wow...I really wish these comments didn't go to my email because then I wouldn't have to read them.

Clayton, thanks for actually reading my comments. I agree it is a good show when it is about Walt and Jesse's personalities.

Laura - I agree that it was completely selfless of him to decide to not leave his family in debt. I am not arguing that. I like him in some ways. But, his family is going to be hurt in more ways than one when he 1) dies and 2) finds out who he really is.

OldBag - No lock down, no screaming. I was trying to do homework at the time and the living room is where my laptop plugs in. I turned around and actually stopped paying attention for a while, also, I would have cooked but I have the flu and I can't really do much right now. Also, I watched a little because I wanted to give the show a chance. Isn't that how you find out what you like and don't like? By watching?

rivcyko - Thanks for the analyzation.

Colonel Panic - For not having any patience for me, you sure found the time to have some.

Someone called me a bitch, but that must have been straight to my email and a comment made on here. They also complained about how I found the time to complain about the show. My boyfriend told me to. So I said "okay, what if there's someone trying to find out if this show is good for their kids to watch?" Because its probably not, do you all agree? There are people who have their kids around all the time, and aren't able to find time to actually watch the show and find out about it on their own.

I don't know...I didn't mean to start an internet war especially when I didn't know these attacking comments would go straight to my email where I would have to see them every day. I knew there would be some opposing arguments, but nothing compared to the ones I have received. I came on the website and saw the show was "controversial". I know it couldn't be controversial if everyone loved it.

So if you want to comment here to call me names, offend me, and try to make me feel bad, please don't:

Mission Accomplished.

Man, the last episode where they had the "intervention" was so hard to watch. The emotional rollercoaster within those conversations had me on the edge of tears. I have never been directly in contact with someone going through the Cancer situation this show presents, but I imagine it's one of the toughest problems to handle. I try to put myself in each person's position to try to understand how I myself would deal with their problem. The wife lives for her family and the cancer could completely destroy that, and therefore, her life. The son has had to deal with conflict his entire life and now has a father that wants to bail at the first sign of a struggle? Then Mr. White, having been "the good guy" his whole life finds out that being good doesn't always mean rewards. How do you make that decision to live miserably for maybe a few years, or die sooner with probably a lot of pain?

I actually wish AMC could air the show uncensored. I mean, if you were in the son's shoes and wanted to tell your dad how you felt about his giving up, calling him a p-word kinda makes sense. I'd scream and yell much worse obscenities if I were him.

I'm really looking forward to how this show will play out. The back story on the rich scientists wife relationship to Mr. White and Jesse's nice house will be something intriguing, I hope. I thank AMC and everyone involved with this show giving us viewers a look into someone's life struggles and what someone might do when faced with these challenges. MUCH BETTER ENTERTAINMENT THAN REALITY TV!!!!

By jenna on February 26, 2008 10:36 AM

rivcyko - Thanks for the analyzation.

(You're welcome. I'm also available for weddings, barmitzfahs, and anniversaries).

I don't know...I didn't mean to start an internet war especially when I didn't know these attacking comments would go straight to my email where I would have to see them every day. I knew there would be some opposing arguments, but nothing compared to the ones I have received. I came on the website and saw the show was "controversial". I know it couldn't be controversial if everyone loved it.

(Most wars aren't started with intent).

So if you want to comment here to call me names, offend me, and try to make me feel bad, please don't:

Mission Accomplished.

Look. I am sorry for the last paragraph, in my previous post. It was uncalled for. Your posts following the first, gave more of your position. I did read them. I took offence to your first post, and couldn't get it out of my head. You do not have to like the show. All good. I took, "Unless you're into wasting hours of your life, this show is not for you." as "All of you are losers". And be honest,...That's kind of what you ment, even if it was not directed to any individual, here. Then the, "Vince", comment, really set me off. He did nothing to you. And I'm sure he is happy, ALL THE WAY TO THE BANK. How cool to make a living, (and I'm sure it's more than I make), at what you love.

Explain to your boyfriend that you don't want to watch, and that if he wants to, cool, but it's not for you. To sit there with him and gripe about it, is not gonna have anything positive, come from it. I can appreciate if it is an excuse for you to spend time with him. Cool. But don't let resentment come from it. I'm sure you guys do things together, that he doesn't care for, either. That's how relationships work. BUT AGAIN, don't let it turn into resentment. Be honest enough with each other, to agree to disagree. (It will last a lot longer). I speak from experiance.

There I go again. D-oh!!!!

Back on topic:

The last one had me really down, as I stated in another thread. Hit WAY close to home. Just waiting for my time.

Jenna,

I just wanted to put it forward, though I'm sure you've realized by now..

When you put your opinion on the internet, you are bound to become subject to criticism. You've got to live with it or shrug it off and as you can tell.. Not everyone thinks alike.

And now raling the discussion back onto topic.
Episodes 1-4 was mostly made up of some domestic issues along with some funny scenes thrown in.

But episode 5 to me personally, really got me thinking. It was by far one of the better episodes. I think people who got this episode are mainly those who can identify themselves with the same issues, or those who are educated enough to understand it through all the crap that sifts through on modern day TV. It is definitely not for your modern teenage kid to watch, including those who still haven't matured from their teenage years yet.

"Ever" is a pretty strong word, now that I think about it. I think it is safe to say that if something is given the "ever" at the end, there shall be some emotions that feel the need to rise. This need to vent is more apparent now in our age of instant gratification, since our information can be examined and refuted as quickly as we post it. Before one commits to a viewpoint, one should take the utmost time and effort in the construction of said viewpoint to ensure that it is conveying it correctly.

Even then, there may still be mistakes that go unnoticed. "Before one commits to a viewpoint, one should take the utmost time and effort in the construction of said viewpoint to ensure that they are conveying it correctly."

Been there, done that. With the exception of the killings, my experances indicate the show is right on target. And I believe there is much redemption in depicting the truth.

However, I wait for the big demonization of meth to start. There are at least two sides to that coin and I'll bet we do not see them both truthfully.

Laura Denise- Congratulations- you "get it". The show does a very good job of portraying how nice guys finish last in this Great Society of ours.The "Ken Wins" character is so typical of the kind of male you see these days- the permanent adolescent. Mr. White reminds me so much of my father (also a high school teacher who died of Lou Gehrig's disease). He was an honest, hard-working, sacrificing breadwinner, but the disease wiped out all his savings and then some. This show brings me to tears every Sunday night, and I'm not easily moved. It also makes me laugh, unlike most of the garbage on television. For all the horrible things Mr. White does, he does them mostly for the sake of his wife, his son, and unborn daughter. He is the tragic hero who wants to die with dignity and on his own two feet.

Also, the last episode, where Jesse tries to "go legit" and get a straight job- that was so sad and so funny at the same time. Haven't we all been there at some point? Tried for a promotion or raise in pay, only to be put "in our place"? This show is about so much more than drugs and violence, it is an unvarnished look at the dog-eat-dog society that we live in. I know a lot of Jesse Pinkmans, a lot of Mr. Whites, and a lot of "Ken Wins" types- guess who always comes out ahead- yep, "Ken Wins".

I'm with the folks above who appreciate the "meta" aspects of "Breaking Bad." I, too, have tried to give a two-liner summary of this show to friends who know nothing of it. And, guess what?? The meta themes of Breaking Bad simply will NOT condense to a nice, pithy, TV Guide sort of entry.

jtp above mentioned "Ken Wins." YES! Haven't we all been confined to a train or restraurant or room with some loud-mouthed a-hole like Ken Wins screeching into a cell phone? Dripping Me First and Me Top Dog arrogance?? And who was not happy to see his Beamer go up in flames? Random A-holery has consequences, too.

As for this show being about "so much more than drugs and violence" -- indeed, I'm hoping the scripts (undoubtedly already written) deal with what has already been hinted at: The US has a vicious, profit-driven unHealth Care system that lets people die or not receive needed medical treatment ... as a cost control measure. Hell, it was revealed in Michael Moore's "SiCKO" and in a public health investigation recently that health insurance claims managers received BONUSES for denying more people coverage on insurance policies they had paid for ... for years. A different form of murder, wouldn't you say?

If it can happen to anal retentive Walter White -- who had to work at a car wash to supplement his teacher's salary -- then it can happen to everyone.

There's more than meth freaks and murder to this show.

Hey Jenna,

Don't take all this so hard.

At least your boyfriend wants you around to watch what he enjoys. He could be like me and not want a whiny mate around to screw up the show!

Jenna If you dont like great plots that make you laugh, cry and cheer then why dont you go watch Hanna Montana and leave the sophisticated shows to us grown ups!

ROFL!!!!

i am 38 and after watching the intro for the show (i taped it ) 1 morel question arises how far will u go to survive?