Thursday, August 18, 2022

What I’m Watching: Better Call Saul (Series Finale)

Better Call Saul: Season 6, Episode 13 “Saul Gone”

This made for a very compelling finale, giving us a few worthwhile flashbacks and character appearances that felt relevant and poignant while giving Jimmy an ending only he could have preordained. Opening with Jimmy and Mike talking about what they would do with a time machine was an excellent way of framing this final episode, positioning Jimmy as someone who’s all about the money rather than actually having any sincere relationships. Facing life plus 190 years was a steep sentence, but he showed his true colors when Marie came in to chew him out for what he had done. He didn’t even try to hide what his goals were when he was asked if he thought a jury would buy that, and we quickly saw an offer of thirty years go down to seven and a half years plus his preferred ice cream flavor every Friday. It’s too bad Kim’s conscience got to her before Jimmy got caught in a dumpster, and ultimately that was what tipped the scales and got him to go overboard on confessing things to completely negate his deal so that she could be cleared of any wrongdoing. The flashbacks to Walt and to Chuck were particularly enlightening, and Walt assessing that he was always like this showed just how much he was able to read Jimmy’s inability to take things seriously. Getting sent to the maximum security facility he had said was a terrible place was a fitting fate, and having him do his signature move as Kim walked out after his fellow inmates made a beat to his slogan was a very memorable way to go out. I’m so glad that this show was a success, and after meeting many of the people involved over virtual interviews and in-person at the Hollywood Critics Association TV Awards, I’m very hopeful that they’ll be duly honored for their achievements at this year’s Emmys and the next.

Series finale: A-
Series grade: A-
Season MVP: Bob Odenkirk
Season grade: A-
Series MVP: Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn
Best Season: Season 5
Best Episode: “Bad Choice Road

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