As for the “I’ll have the sole” connection to soul, I don’t think Howard’s soul is now clean, I think he’s actively trying to restore his soul after the Chuck debacle, and I think the lunch and job offer to Jimmy is a kind of attempt (witting or unwitting) to do so.
meh. how bout this guy posts his analysis days before the next episode airs... he obviously waits until seeing the next episode to confirm or make changes before posting! nailed it
@@StamfordBridge I think saul understands this, thinking of this act as something Howard does to feel better, like a charity. Also think that's why he eludes giving an answer for a while, to make howard desire it more, and make him hurt when he gets to say no, like howard said no when he needed him.
Howard is the most spotless person in the show. He always has the best intensions for everyone, can't see hidden insecurities in other people because he himself doesn't have any deep insecurities. And the result? He's everyone's punching bag.
He was literally told the best thing he could do for Kim and Jimmy is to stay away but he decided he'd rather have a crafty lawyer than respect their wishes. He had HIS best intentions in mind there. He 100% has hidden insecurities, just look at any scene with him and his wife, its obvious.
Hi Andi! Thank you as always for watching, I love to see you in the comments. Of course you are correct, Howard does say that to Jimmy in the course of their conversation - my wording in this part of the breakdown could have been clearer. The point I was getting at was, when Howard is talking about his _own_ regrets and lack of backbone, he avoids saying the word "Chuck," even (conspicuously) in places where it would seem natural for Chuck's name to up. That is, Howard talks around his own relationship with Chuck, leaving a palpable void in the conversation. When it comes to Jimmy's relationship with Chuck, Howard feels freer to bring it up. (In fact, now that you highlight the line on its own, I can see how Howard is re-establishing some distance from the Chuck-Jimmy dynamic - understandably so.) Thanks for pointing this out!
I worked out why he posts a week late. Having seen the latest episode an hour ago, this drongo waits to see how things pan out before posting last weeks shows analysis.
@@damian3127 no, this is the first time he's posted after the next episode. I've been watching him analyze these since season 2, and this is the first time he's ever released one after the next episode airs. You should probably watch more than one breakdown before you come to a conclusion like this and then publicly pat yourself in the back for it. 😆
And there are 3 parts to the Breaking Bad universe: BB, BCS, El Camino. And there are 6 seasons of BCS (6 is divisible by threes). That can’t be a coincidence.
I was so confused by the scene with Lyle and Gus when I watched last night, but you deconstructed it beautifully. You have such a good, critical eye for this show that I admire so much. Keep up the great work!
13:24 Notice how as Kim entered the courtroom and sat down, at the center of the shot is the actual defendant, focused right at us unknowing viewers. Even his shirt is bright blue - a stark contrast to the other people in the shot. Yet, most of us couldn't know.
I’m loving these breakdowns! At the 4-minute mark: when Howard says “I’ll have the SOUL,” I also viewed it as Saul would have probably interpreted it. What I mean is that he would have Jimmy’s soul, Saul’s soul, as the devil would take someone’s soul. Also, Soul sounds like Saul, so perhaps Jimmy/Saul sees taking a job with HHM as losing his Soul AND losing his Saul. The person being hired wouldn’t be Saul, it would have to be Jimmy. Saul would have to be surrendered (I’ll have the Saul) in order for Jimmy to be part of a respectable firm such as HHM. In my view, in addition to the observations in the video, this is another part of why Jimmy/Saul acts out so extravagantly (bowling balls & hookers) against Howard in response to this offer.
Hey man, I love these breakdowns. I had a different take on Saul's/Jimmy's reaction to Hamlin. I was taken back to the Gray Matter episode of Breaking Bad when Walt was offered back into the company by Elliott and Gretchen. I don't think that Jimmy wants into HHM and I don't think he wants the straight and narrow life that Howard has. Rather, he wants to let his Saul flag fly all the way. The bowling ball is the equivalent of Walt's "f%^& you" to Gretchen in the next episode. My two cents.
I thought the bowling ball stunt was Saul protecting himself from Jimmy, the HHM offer is a temptation for Jimmy to go straight, if he does that Saul may die and Jimmy take control again, the bridge has to be completely and irrevocably burned for Saul to be safe.
Srsly your content is freaking awesome and deep. I consider myself a very thoughtful viewer but your insights are just nuts. You deserve way more subs and attention.
Charlie Hustle was Pete Rose’s nickname prior to getting exposed for betting on Baseball. Rose is still essentially banished from Baseball and the Baseball Hall Of Fame. He is still famous/infamous. The view of Rose is that he was a great player...Someone who left nothing on the field...but a corrupt person...who associated with low lifes and broke the central rule that Baseball can’t forgive...Betting on Baseball...Steroid use receives more understanding. What would be the central rule that Jimmy/Saul has broken. What’s the unforgivable rule for Lawyers that Jimmy/Saul has broken? I haven’t been able to view this season but I’m pretty sure it’s a felony. But it also could be betraying his clients.
When Kim ordered the lights turned off in order to pitch her slideshow, I was reminded how Chuck's arrival at any place was preceded by the ritual of extinguishing all the lights. Not sure if it was intended, but I got the impression that, perhaps subconsciously, Kim was trying to channel Chuck's fortitude and force of will to make her case to Kevin. But to no avail. There is only one Charles McGill, and his shadow is expansive.
Whaaat this is just what I wanted and didn't existed I've been wanting to watch the hidden meaning of all the episodes and here it is! Explained impeccably! You're way too underrated, thanks for existing
I see Howard very differently, his spirituality performative, his job offer to Jimmy as both a soul cleansing and a way to harness what he finds lacking in himself. Howard is no "Charlie Hustle", joining his father's firm (one his father and Chuck built) and likely coasting through life on his father's name and status. Howard realizes his privilege yet the package is too attractive to put effort into choosing his own path. Everything about Howard, from his suits, his hair, his home are about maintaining his status and image. And the image pleases and reassures him, that's what he gets by looking in the mirror. He sees the carefully crafted and coiffed idea of success, one lacking real character or soul. He orders the sole because he's badly in need of one.
Thank the stars there one person as insightful and dedicated as you are in unpacking all the art and genius of this show. Sensationalist have their place, but half of the enjoyment of my experience of Better Call Saul comes from this one channel! Thank again O!
Your breakdowns help me appreciate the show more, and understand techniques film makers use. You really make me understand why i feel the way i do when I'm watching a scene. Do you do breakdowns for other shows?
The algorithm positively blessed me today. I've been binging your BCS videos and they're damn good, well earned sub. Can't wait to see more of your stuff
It's not only that your breakdown analyses are so good; it's also that your own script for these videos is so carefully prepared and well presented! Great work.
This is the analysis I have been looking for. Some of the details that you are noticing are subtle, but they may stick in my subconcious even though I don't consciously even see them. I just think " man, this show is so good" but I can't tell why. Heck, even the creators of the show might not realize they are doing it, just as Jimmie doesn't realize he is covering the "2nd best" on the mug.
Excellent review! I remember, back in the old days of Polite Fight, when Gus would make reference to “John’s crazy Threes Theory.” It was just as much fun watching the two of you argue over your 3rd Force theory, than the review of the episode Amarillo itself. Keep up the good work. I haven’t found anywhere else where other reviewers provide better insights than the great work you and Gus are doing.
It's people like these that really tested the 'no child left behind' motto in essay writing classes. I can only imagine a teacher grading this level of outlook and then having to grade mine afterwards. I'm sure they had to try very hard to conceal the 'you're a lost cause' reaction while handing my work back to me.
John, your channel is fantastic, truly. Your enthusiasm is beautiful, and your insight is wonderful. - Re the number 3, this is not the first time it has been used as a stand in for Chuck. I also think it is a stand in for other dramatic overtones, such as the idea of 'me, my shadow and I' (The track used for the B/W Gene scene, season 4) It is the conscious, sub-conscious and id relationship, but also of course the Jimmy, Saul and Gene personas. - When Jimmy first meets Kim in episode 1- season 1, they stand against the HHM basement wall, half in light, half in shadow, (Particularly Kim) sharing a cigarette, and sharing also one line of co-dependent dialogue - 'Couldn't you just...no I can't.' (Of course by now she can for that matter.) But prevailing above them is the sign P3. Chuck is the third player in the triangular relationship. At this early time, he's already in allegorical form, presiding over Jimmy. - Kim cleans up Jimmy's rubbish here too. - Further, when Jimmy weeps utterly from his car in Winner - season 4, he is also in this very basement, and we see the P3 sign there again. The basement being symbolic of the sub-conscious. Jimmy loses everything for Saul to win it all, Chuck's ghost always there. - Vince Gilligan is very Catholic. Jimmy and Chuck are Cain and Able, Nacho is the prodigal son. 3 is father, son and holy spirit, which features heavily in various characters. - czcams.com/video/mdNHlxf8qQU/video.html - Here is the link to when Kim and Jimmy first appear. The prophetic beauty of this scene is extraordinary. It is the beginning and it will be the end. Kim says..no, I can't..I fear for her freedom. PS - Don't get me started about the use of the red exit sign throughout this show. It always spells doom for anyone placed in relation to it.
Man, this break down really helped me understand this scene and Jimmie’s/Saul’s reaction to it. I didn’t get it at first and just thought he was lashing out and angry at the world and it was him “becoming Saul” which I guess is true too, but now it makes total sense. Thanks!
I can’t help but dislike Saul after this episode. He’s always been a dirtbag but atleast he was a likeable dirtbag. But to see him go out of his way to try and hurt Howard and destroy his car after he was kind to him just really soured the character for me. It just shows how selfish and bitter he is. And I really like Howard’s character too when I hated him at the start but they’ve developed the character so well I can’t help but respect him.
I think he's spiraling downwards after the loss of Chuck and how things ended with him. No matter what Jimmy says, he really loved Chuck, and was constantly hurt by Chuck's lack of respect, approval, and love in reciprocation. His death has profoundly impacted Jimmy/Saul's outlook on things. And he's been unable to move past it, but Hamlin seems to be moving past it, which hurts Jimmy even more.
I'm re-watching the show and I'm realizing that Howard is generally an honorable, honest and friendly guy. He has a douchebag vibe and often comes across as elitist, but I find he usually speaks and acts with integrity and clarity even in tough situations. But still, we don't like him because he shows what Jimmy is. Great writing.
I struggle to believe that what Howard is offering to Jimmy is his “dream-come-true”, maybe as mentioned this was the case in the beginning but if indeed this is what Jimmy wants now he for sure doesn’t want it from Howard. I think he’s probably envious of the peace and calm Howard appears to embody and also his success in overcoming the setbacks from HMM. Howard is rebuilding and he’s moving on up and in a way he’s offering to Jimmy a lifeline but after everything HMM has put Jimmy through, he wants to be the one to have rebuilt, excelling and pulling himself up while looking down at Howard. He wants to be better than what Howard is offering him and he resents that at the moment he’s genuinely not doing well emotionally and in his career. The frustration he has with Howard is more towards himself.
Between Howard and Jimmy I get the sense of "too little too late". Howard had so many opportunities to stand up for Jimmy with regard to Chuck, but he never did. He knew exactly what Chuck was doing to Jimmy and even took the blame for it because (in my interpretation) he felt so bad for Jimmy about what his own brother was doing to him, so he tried to soften the blow. He knew what he was doing was wrong. He knew what Chuck was doing was wrong. Only now that Chuck is dead can Howard go against his wishes. Seems to me like Howard is trying to absolve himself of his past sins by hiring Jimmy like he should have years ago. I'm with Jimmy on this one and wouldn't give him that satisfaction. He's going to have to live with his past deeds just like everyone else
I just realised that Howard was used by Chuck to be the bad guy towards Jimmy and Jimmy used Chuck as the bad guy responsible for Chuck dead so that Jimmy wouldn't have to be poor Howard he doesn't deserve this
Man this detailed analysis is great. As a non American tho I watch in English there's so many minor details that sets the tone that I would miss otherwise. Thank you
9:34 That shot of a naked Jimmy sure reminds me of the parallels they were drawing between Walt’s daughter and Jesse’s girlfriend Jane. I remember them showing Jane and Holly back to back sleeping in that same fetal position.
Man, I'm all about getting the most out of an episode or a series, but damn, I can't imagine turning each episode into a college thesis with 40 hours of video editing on top of it. How many times did you have to watch each episode to come up with all this?
So nice to listen to a channel with insightful takes on the show. Checked on some others this week and some seem to half-get things and one just careened down the rabbit hole of his own personal insecurity issues. I feel with this channel I’m listening to someone who really “gets it,” even if I don’t happen to agree with every little nuance of interpretation. Thanks!
I didn’t even realize how little subscribers you have. You’re breakdowns are awesome and production is well also. You deserve so much more views and subs
ive been looking for your channel for a few hours. i remember i watched your videos on s5 bcs and it compleatly changed how i watch all media. no one else does it like you do and ive been re watching bcs with my new gf and she loves these analysis too. you really deserve to be bigger. you do good stuff keep it upppppppp !!!
You have no idea how thankful I am to have stumbled upon your channel. I wish I had found it sooner. Big props to the amount of effort that goes into videos like this. Can't wait to see more people find you once they see such quality content!
i disagree here. to me Jimmy never really want to work at HHM. He wanted to work WITH Chuck. Now that it was out of the table then he wanted to work with Kim. What he want is family. A sense of belonging. maybe as payback of his inability to grieve. You can see that it is recurring pattern of behaviour here. We can see it everytime Jimmy lose the one he love. he can not grieve, instead he drown himself into more work. The hate toward Howard was not because he really hate Howard, it's only a coping mechanism to hide the truth that he cant really have what he truly want. So when Howard offer Jimmy the job when it no longer matter it anger Jimmy. anyway great analysis, I agree on everything except that small detail
Jimmy has a deep-seated inferiority complex. He doesn't hate Howard, he hates himself deep down. Howard's magnanimous appraisal of Jimmy is what sets him off; the same way his prospective employers from the copy machine place set him off; which he repays by stealing from them Jimmy isn't accustomed to being on the receiving end of praise. He feels unworthy of compliment. His self esteem is illustrated by his crappy car, which is called an Esteem. By refusing to upgrade to a better car he is making his low self appraisal his defining feature. You can't be hurt as easily if you don't have as much to lose When he torments Howard he isn't doing it to bring Howard down to his level but to lower himself in Howard's eyes. Howard's refusal to resent Jimmy in a saintly act of forgiveness caused Jimmy to lash out in a desperate last attempt to make Howard view him as less, which he ultimately does Jimmy is an underachiever by habit in the realm of morality. His reasoning being that no matter how hard you try you'll be judged inexorably Chuck's ruthless approach to the letter of the law is what made Jimmy view the spirit of the law as futile
Your absolutely great at this. I’ve had these same exact thoughts. To me I love the psychological aspect of shows, movies, video games etc. and I love when the artist does too. Vince in this case does that well in his shows. That’s Vince’s bread and butter. What psychologically makes a person become a criminal. And what makes a criminal tick. I love that Vince gets that criminals don’t just wake up one day and decide to break the law. It’s rather a slippery slope and series of unfortunate events and unforeseen circumstances. I just love it. I had a tough childhood so I really relate to these kind of stories. So see the good in criminals where others don’t. My love for psychology started in high school when I took it as an elective. I didn’t know it at the time but it’s because I had all these issues I had never dealt with. Then as an adult in college I took psychology. Life started getting tough not dealing with everything I had been through so when I finally got help seeing a therapist and psychologist it all clicked from there. I loved self reflection and figuring out why I did certain things. Human behavior is just so fascinating
5:10 One thing you didn't notice, Jimmy has his elbow on the table and Howard does not. I feel like this was done on purpose to show that Howard has etiquette and Jimmy doesn't.
Great video as always! I actually thought "I'll have the sole" to mean that Howard was going to attempt to take Jimmy's SOUL. And he does - with that job offer, the attempt is (inadvertently) take away Jimmy's soul (Saul). Or....if Howard has outside motives for the job offer (to keep the name McGill in HHM, for example). But your POV is also cool and interesting - looking forward to your next one! (and love the analysis on the "2nd best lawyer" mug (which I always thought to mean Jimmy was 2nd best...to Howard, to Kim, to everyone...but Saul....Saul is the best at what he does. Saul is #1.)
@Ological I absolutely LOVE your videos. I feel like im in english class again. The way you talk about your analyses engage me; I have learned deeper underlying themes in BCS Way to go!
I love the Lyle-Gus scene. That's Grade A "Show, don't tell" also i can deeply relate. a former gf of mine had OCD and I tried to suffice her needs without reinforcing the obsessiveness (I had quite a few caachings with her therapist to understand her better and to differentiate what is just unusual and what's obsessive) but I too can relate to cleaning especially cups and plates, where I didn't see a thing what's wrong. She was lovely and a bit of a Nut. It didn't work out, but we are writing cute holiday postcards to each other.
What a great breakdown, John. Thank you! Man, have I got cynical in my old age, but I felt like Howard was trying to play Jimmy. It read to me like he was over-selling. Howard said he could "use" Jimmy. Once he pointedly says "I" and another time he says "HHM" could use him. One use for Howard could be to make amends as part of his spiritual journey and the second could be material gain for the firm by somehow tying Jimmy's Sandpiper Crossing fees up with the firm's finances. Maybe it's both and Howard himself doesn't quite know why or what he's proposing. I did feel sorry for Jimmy here as another nail in his coffin is hammered home. If only Howard had proposed hiring Saul Goodman on an independent contract as needed for special jobs!
Kim is not clean at all here. She is over the edge, to take it back to the last episode. She can think she is outsourcing it to Jimmy/Saul but she is actively working against her client's interests. This is more than just a conflict of interest. It is flat-out unethical conduct that can't be cured or waived. Ironically, it is less so for Jimmy, who is only tasked with representing his own client and not working against him.
Hi John! I just stumbled on your videos yesterday and I'm just amazed at your analysis and I can't stop watching your very high quality videos. Thank you for the all the work you put into these.
Tbh I didn't get why Howard had that Namaste nameplate in the first place. Namaste is only a greeting, it has no spiritual of self-awareness element to it. What exactly was the nameplate signifying from Howard's perspective is what I really wanna know.
Man , i love that comment about Howard looking at himself in the mirror and Jimmy doesn't . Powerful image.
Howard is such a brilliantly written character. I love whenever he's on screen.
yea. howard is the victim of chuck being a coward towards jimmy
@@Radec913 i think at the end he should have just moved on from jimmy and kim....sadly kim is going to make him pay.
I hate his voice, but he's fun to watch
@@leaveme3559 ding ding ding
@@NebulousJ fuck man this episode broke me....poor Howard
Great reading of “He’s the last line of defense for the little guy.”
As for the “I’ll have the sole” connection to soul, I don’t think Howard’s soul is now clean, I think he’s actively trying to restore his soul after the Chuck debacle, and I think the lunch and job offer to Jimmy is a kind of attempt (witting or unwitting) to do so.
meh. how bout this guy posts his analysis days before the next episode airs... he obviously waits until seeing the next episode to confirm or make changes before posting! nailed it
@@damian3127 again, wrong.
@@damian3127 no.
@@StamfordBridge I think saul understands this, thinking of this act as something Howard does to feel better, like a charity.
Also think that's why he eludes giving an answer for a while, to make howard desire it more, and make him hurt when he gets to say no, like howard said no when he needed him.
Howard is the most spotless person in the show. He always has the best intensions for everyone, can't see hidden insecurities in other people because he himself doesn't have any deep insecurities. And the result? He's everyone's punching bag.
He was literally told the best thing he could do for Kim and Jimmy is to stay away but he decided he'd rather have a crafty lawyer than respect their wishes. He had HIS best intentions in mind there. He 100% has hidden insecurities, just look at any scene with him and his wife, its obvious.
"Im really struck by these shots of kim slowly deliberately spitting out this mass of toothpaste foam."
"[Kim] sems to savor her spit" with a still of white foamy toothpaste dripping down her mouth lmao
I’ve come to really like and respect Howard.
I want Jimmy and Howard to be friends so badly, they would be a power duo. But unfortunately Chuck has forever tainted that relationship
Howard does say "as far as I'm concerned, that's between you and Chuck." Didn't he?
I didn't make the Namast3 connection with the rule of 3's!
Hi Andi! Thank you as always for watching, I love to see you in the comments. Of course you are correct, Howard does say that to Jimmy in the course of their conversation - my wording in this part of the breakdown could have been clearer. The point I was getting at was, when Howard is talking about his _own_ regrets and lack of backbone, he avoids saying the word "Chuck," even (conspicuously) in places where it would seem natural for Chuck's name to up. That is, Howard talks around his own relationship with Chuck, leaving a palpable void in the conversation. When it comes to Jimmy's relationship with Chuck, Howard feels freer to bring it up. (In fact, now that you highlight the line on its own, I can see how Howard is re-establishing some distance from the Chuck-Jimmy dynamic - understandably so.)
Thanks for pointing this out!
@@ologicalonline gotcha! Great breakdown, as always.
I worked out why he posts a week late. Having seen the latest episode an hour ago, this drongo waits to see how things pan out before posting last weeks shows analysis.
@@damian3127 no, this is the first time he's posted after the next episode. I've been watching him analyze these since season 2, and this is the first time he's ever released one after the next episode airs. You should probably watch more than one breakdown before you come to a conclusion like this and then publicly pat yourself in the back for it. 😆
Oh three bowling balls, three bells in the store, Namast3. This show is so multi layered. Thanks for the review.
And how the bowling ball costs 30 bucks
And there are 3 parts to the Breaking Bad universe: BB, BCS, El Camino. And there are 6 seasons of BCS (6 is divisible by threes). That can’t be a coincidence.
@@dimetronome Hei-sen-berg contains 3 syllables. It's all coming together.
Better Call Saul - 3 words
There's three letters in the Spanish word for three...
I was so confused by the scene with Lyle and Gus when I watched last night, but you deconstructed it beautifully. You have such a good, critical eye for this show that I admire so much. Keep up the great work!
I loved that scene , it was Gus needing to control something.
13:24 Notice how as Kim entered the courtroom and sat down, at the center of the shot is the actual defendant, focused right at us unknowing viewers. Even his shirt is bright blue - a stark contrast to the other people in the shot. Yet, most of us couldn't know.
Damn. Such a small & brilliant detail to notice!
I’m loving these breakdowns!
At the 4-minute mark: when Howard says “I’ll have the SOUL,” I also viewed it as Saul would have probably interpreted it. What I mean is that he would have Jimmy’s soul, Saul’s soul, as the devil would take someone’s soul.
Also, Soul sounds like Saul, so perhaps Jimmy/Saul sees taking a job with HHM as losing his Soul AND losing his Saul. The person being hired wouldn’t be Saul, it would have to be Jimmy. Saul would have to be surrendered (I’ll have the Saul) in order for Jimmy to be part of a respectable firm such as HHM.
In my view, in addition to the observations in the video, this is another part of why Jimmy/Saul acts out so extravagantly (bowling balls & hookers) against Howard in response to this offer.
Yes! Great read of the scene!
Hey man, I love these breakdowns. I had a different take on Saul's/Jimmy's reaction to Hamlin. I was taken back to the Gray Matter episode of Breaking Bad when Walt was offered back into the company by Elliott and Gretchen. I don't think that Jimmy wants into HHM and I don't think he wants the straight and narrow life that Howard has. Rather, he wants to let his Saul flag fly all the way. The bowling ball is the equivalent of Walt's "f%^& you" to Gretchen in the next episode. My two cents.
I love it, Christopher. Great connection.
I thought the bowling ball stunt was Saul protecting himself from Jimmy, the HHM offer is a temptation for Jimmy to go straight, if he does that Saul may die and Jimmy take control again, the bridge has to be completely and irrevocably burned for Saul to be safe.
I've also been realizing him hiding that "2nd" from everybody, also in episode 5.
Srsly your content is freaking awesome and deep. I consider myself a very thoughtful viewer but your insights are just nuts. You deserve way more subs and attention.
Charlie Hustle was Pete Rose’s nickname prior to getting exposed for betting on Baseball. Rose is still essentially banished from Baseball and the Baseball Hall Of Fame. He is still famous/infamous. The view of Rose is that he was a great player...Someone who left nothing on the field...but a corrupt person...who associated with low lifes and broke the central rule that Baseball can’t forgive...Betting on Baseball...Steroid use receives more understanding. What would be the central rule that Jimmy/Saul has broken. What’s the unforgivable rule for Lawyers that Jimmy/Saul has broken? I haven’t been able to view this season but I’m pretty sure it’s a felony. But it also could be betraying his clients.
Also, "Charlie Hustle" was given to Rose by other pros as a pejorative, a backhanded compliment. As in, he's got no talent, so he tries really hard.
When Kim ordered the lights turned off in order to pitch her slideshow, I was reminded how Chuck's arrival at any place was preceded by the ritual of extinguishing all the lights. Not sure if it was intended, but I got the impression that, perhaps subconsciously, Kim was trying to channel Chuck's fortitude and force of will to make her case to Kevin. But to no avail. There is only one Charles McGill, and his shadow is expansive.
I was so lost at the gus cleaning scene when I watched the episode. Your breakdown made it so clear!
Your little stuffed monster behind you is blue and gold - the colors so prevalent in BCS.
Haha thanks for noticing ;-)
Whaaat this is just what I wanted and didn't existed I've been wanting to watch the hidden meaning of all the episodes and here it is! Explained impeccably! You're way too underrated, thanks for existing
YOU ARE CRIMINALLY UNDERRATED!!!
Great video my dude, can't wait for the rest of your breakdown
heyy missed your breakdowns
This channel is everything I have been looking for, an intelligent, semiotic reading of my favourite show. Please, please keep at it.
I see Howard very differently, his spirituality performative, his job offer to Jimmy as both a soul cleansing and a way to harness what he finds lacking in himself. Howard is no "Charlie Hustle", joining his father's firm (one his father and Chuck built) and likely coasting through life on his father's name and status. Howard realizes his privilege yet the package is too attractive to put effort into choosing his own path. Everything about Howard, from his suits, his hair, his home are about maintaining his status and image. And the image pleases and reassures him, that's what he gets by looking in the mirror. He sees the carefully crafted and coiffed idea of success, one lacking real character or soul. He orders the sole because he's badly in need of one.
YES! Have been waiting for your breakdown!
man your insight is amazing and makes me appreciate the show in ways I didnt know was possible keep it up
Thank the stars there one person as insightful and dedicated as you are in unpacking all the art and genius of this show. Sensationalist have their place, but half of the enjoyment of my experience of Better Call Saul comes from this one channel! Thank again O!
"People ask me how I see all these things in BCSW"
...and then everyone clapped
Your breakdowns help me appreciate the show more, and understand techniques film makers use. You really make me understand why i feel the way i do when I'm watching a scene. Do you do breakdowns for other shows?
Not yet, but soon! Thanks for your kind remarks, Raymond.
He/they did some breakdowns on Fargo season 2. Which was a really good show.
The algorithm positively blessed me today. I've been binging your BCS videos and they're damn good, well earned sub. Can't wait to see more of your stuff
Love these breakdowns!
Could watch these all day. Please keep em coming for the remaining episodes.
awesome analysis!
You’re on point this season. Better than ever 👍
It's not only that your breakdown analyses are so good; it's also that your own script for these videos is so carefully prepared and well presented! Great work.
This is the analysis I have been looking for. Some of the details that you are noticing are subtle, but they may stick in my subconcious even though I don't consciously even see them. I just think " man, this show is so good" but I can't tell why. Heck, even the creators of the show might not realize they are doing it, just as Jimmie doesn't realize he is covering the "2nd best" on the mug.
Excellent review! I remember, back in the old days of Polite Fight, when Gus would make reference to “John’s crazy Threes Theory.” It was just as much fun watching the two of you argue over your 3rd Force theory, than the review of the episode Amarillo itself. Keep up the good work. I haven’t found anywhere else where other reviewers provide better insights than the great work you and Gus are doing.
It's people like these that really tested the 'no child left behind' motto in essay writing classes. I can only imagine a teacher grading this level of outlook and then having to grade mine afterwards.
I'm sure they had to try very hard to conceal the 'you're a lost cause' reaction while handing my work back to me.
John, your channel is fantastic, truly. Your enthusiasm is beautiful, and your insight is wonderful.
- Re the number 3, this is not the first time it has been used as a stand in for Chuck. I also think it is a stand in for other dramatic overtones, such as the idea of 'me, my shadow and I' (The track used for the B/W Gene scene, season 4) It is the conscious, sub-conscious and id relationship, but also of course the Jimmy, Saul and Gene personas.
- When Jimmy first meets Kim in episode 1- season 1, they stand against the HHM basement wall, half in light, half in shadow, (Particularly Kim) sharing a cigarette, and sharing also one line of co-dependent dialogue - 'Couldn't you just...no I can't.' (Of course by now she can for that matter.) But prevailing above them is the sign P3. Chuck is the third player in the triangular relationship. At this early time, he's already in allegorical form, presiding over Jimmy.
- Kim cleans up Jimmy's rubbish here too.
- Further, when Jimmy weeps utterly from his car in Winner - season 4, he is also in this very basement, and we see the P3 sign there again. The basement being symbolic of the sub-conscious. Jimmy loses everything for Saul to win it all, Chuck's ghost always there.
- Vince Gilligan is very Catholic. Jimmy and Chuck are Cain and Able, Nacho is the prodigal son. 3 is father, son and holy spirit, which features heavily in various characters.
- czcams.com/video/mdNHlxf8qQU/video.html
- Here is the link to when Kim and Jimmy first appear. The prophetic beauty of this scene is extraordinary. It is the beginning and it will be the end. Kim says..no, I can't..I fear for her freedom.
PS - Don't get me started about the use of the red exit sign throughout this show. It always spells doom for anyone placed in relation to it.
Pretty fucking nuts that Howard would still be alive had he never had lunch with Jimmy.
Man, this break down really helped me understand this scene and Jimmie’s/Saul’s reaction to it. I didn’t get it at first and just thought he was lashing out and angry at the world and it was him “becoming Saul” which I guess is true too, but now it makes total sense. Thanks!
I can’t help but dislike Saul after this episode. He’s always been a dirtbag but atleast he was a likeable dirtbag. But to see him go out of his way to try and hurt Howard and destroy his car after he was kind to him just really soured the character for me. It just shows how selfish and bitter he is. And I really like Howard’s character too when I hated him at the start but they’ve developed the character so well I can’t help but respect him.
I think he's spiraling downwards after the loss of Chuck and how things ended with him. No matter what Jimmy says, he really loved Chuck, and was constantly hurt by Chuck's lack of respect, approval, and love in reciprocation. His death has profoundly impacted Jimmy/Saul's outlook on things. And he's been unable to move past it, but Hamlin seems to be moving past it, which hurts Jimmy even more.
Rewatching the series now, and Jimmys reaction to the offer is something I really didn't understand that well. Amazing analysis, and great video!
9:04 I love when you bring me down to your basement to discuss Better Call Saul.
Subscribed.
I'm re-watching the show and I'm realizing that Howard is generally an honorable, honest and friendly guy. He has a douchebag vibe and often comes across as elitist, but I find he usually speaks and acts with integrity and clarity even in tough situations.
But still, we don't like him because he shows what Jimmy is. Great writing.
I struggle to believe that what Howard is offering to Jimmy is his “dream-come-true”, maybe as mentioned this was the case in the beginning but if indeed this is what Jimmy wants now he for sure doesn’t want it from Howard. I think he’s probably envious of the peace and calm Howard appears to embody and also his success in overcoming the setbacks from HMM. Howard is rebuilding and he’s moving on up and in a way he’s offering to Jimmy a lifeline but after everything HMM has put Jimmy through, he wants to be the one to have rebuilt, excelling and pulling himself up while looking down at Howard. He wants to be better than what Howard is offering him and he resents that at the moment he’s genuinely not doing well emotionally and in his career. The frustration he has with Howard is more towards himself.
Great insight!
"Howard never even says the word Chuck"
He does! Jimmy even gets taken aback when he does.
I used to just watch TV shows but now I see it's a portal into another life now.
Howard did not purge Chuck from his vocabulary.
This show is disproportionately good to the amount of views it receives. Keep up the excellent work.
You sure know how to make multiple connections while also giving your best opinion. Great video
Well, shit. That's deep.
Between Howard and Jimmy I get the sense of "too little too late". Howard had so many opportunities to stand up for Jimmy with regard to Chuck, but he never did. He knew exactly what Chuck was doing to Jimmy and even took the blame for it because (in my interpretation) he felt so bad for Jimmy about what his own brother was doing to him, so he tried to soften the blow. He knew what he was doing was wrong. He knew what Chuck was doing was wrong. Only now that Chuck is dead can Howard go against his wishes. Seems to me like Howard is trying to absolve himself of his past sins by hiring Jimmy like he should have years ago. I'm with Jimmy on this one and wouldn't give him that satisfaction. He's going to have to live with his past deeds just like everyone else
I just realised that Howard was used by Chuck to be the bad guy towards Jimmy and Jimmy used Chuck as the bad guy responsible for Chuck dead so that Jimmy wouldn't have to be poor Howard he doesn't deserve this
Man this detailed analysis is great. As a non American tho I watch in English there's so many minor details that sets the tone that I would miss otherwise. Thank you
This channel deserves 100k+ subs. hope u keep making these they are gold!
Holding back a minimum wage employee for hours after their shift to scrub the same thing over and over is the most evil thing Gus has ever done.
9:34 That shot of a naked Jimmy sure reminds me of the parallels they were drawing between Walt’s daughter and Jesse’s girlfriend Jane. I remember them showing Jane and Holly back to back sleeping in that same fetal position.
Man, I'm all about getting the most out of an episode or a series, but damn, I can't imagine turning each episode into a college thesis with 40 hours of video editing on top of it. How many times did you have to watch each episode to come up with all this?
So nice to listen to a channel with insightful takes on the show. Checked on some others this week and some seem to half-get things and one just careened down the rabbit hole of his own personal insecurity issues. I feel with this channel I’m listening to someone who really “gets it,” even if I don’t happen to agree with every little nuance of interpretation. Thanks!
I didn’t even realize how little subscribers you have. You’re breakdowns are awesome and production is well also. You deserve so much more views and subs
This show deserves more views for the production value on display here. That goes both for Basement Breakdown and Better Call Saul.
great analysis man
Man, great analysis! Keep it up!
ive been looking for your channel for a few hours. i remember i watched your videos on s5 bcs and it compleatly changed how i watch all media. no one else does it like you do and ive been re watching bcs with my new gf and she loves these analysis too. you really deserve to be bigger. you do good stuff keep it upppppppp !!!
!!! First breakdown that makes complete sense to me
Can’t wait for your analysis of the rest of the season
Howard "I'll have the soul"
this line would come full circle
You have no idea how thankful I am to have stumbled upon your channel. I wish I had found it sooner. Big props to the amount of effort that goes into videos like this. Can't wait to see more people find you once they see such quality content!
i disagree here. to me Jimmy never really want to work at HHM. He wanted to work WITH Chuck. Now that it was out of the table then he wanted to work with Kim. What he want is family. A sense of belonging. maybe as payback of his inability to grieve. You can see that it is recurring pattern of behaviour here. We can see it everytime Jimmy lose the one he love. he can not grieve, instead he drown himself into more work. The hate toward Howard was not because he really hate Howard, it's only a coping mechanism to hide the truth that he cant really have what he truly want. So when Howard offer Jimmy the job when it no longer matter it anger Jimmy. anyway great analysis, I agree on everything except that small detail
or maybe it's just how deep the writer make Jimmy. all of the reasons combined and make him resent howard
Jimmy has a deep-seated inferiority complex. He doesn't hate Howard, he hates himself deep down. Howard's magnanimous appraisal of Jimmy is what sets him off; the same way his prospective employers from the copy machine place set him off; which he repays by stealing from them
Jimmy isn't accustomed to being on the receiving end of praise. He feels unworthy of compliment. His self esteem is illustrated by his crappy car, which is called an Esteem. By refusing to upgrade to a better car he is making his low self appraisal his defining feature. You can't be hurt as easily if you don't have as much to lose
When he torments Howard he isn't doing it to bring Howard down to his level but to lower himself in Howard's eyes. Howard's refusal to resent Jimmy in a saintly act of forgiveness caused Jimmy to lash out in a desperate last attempt to make Howard view him as less, which he ultimately does
Jimmy is an underachiever by habit in the realm of morality. His reasoning being that no matter how hard you try you'll be judged inexorably
Chuck's ruthless approach to the letter of the law is what made Jimmy view the spirit of the law as futile
loved the breakdown of Lyle and Gus at the end!
Hey! New to your channel and love your videos about my favorite show. Great work!
Your absolutely great at this. I’ve had these same exact thoughts. To me I love the psychological aspect of shows, movies, video games etc. and I love when the artist does too. Vince in this case does that well in his shows. That’s Vince’s bread and butter. What psychologically makes a person become a criminal. And what makes a criminal tick. I love that Vince gets that criminals don’t just wake up one day and decide to break the law. It’s rather a slippery slope and series of unfortunate events and unforeseen circumstances. I just love it. I had a tough childhood so I really relate to these kind of stories. So see the good in criminals where others don’t. My love for psychology started in high school when I took it as an elective. I didn’t know it at the time but it’s because I had all these issues I had never dealt with. Then as an adult in college I took psychology. Life started getting tough not dealing with everything I had been through so when I finally got help seeing a therapist and psychologist it all clicked from there. I loved self reflection and figuring out why I did certain things. Human behavior is just so fascinating
these videos are so good
GREAT ANALYSIS! Go back and do the early seasons like these :D So much great CHUCK material!
Honestly incredible analysis
These analyses are amazing. I can imagine you reviewing a day in anyone's life...and making it sound awesome haha
Great video.
Your analyses are better than those of channels with 100x the subscribers. Going to watch your other videos! Subbed!
5:10 One thing you didn't notice, Jimmy has his elbow on the table and Howard does not. I feel like this was done on purpose to show that Howard has etiquette and Jimmy doesn't.
The ring reminds me of Top Gun where all the aviators wore their academy rings in the bar and Maverick did not have one.
Great video as always! I actually thought "I'll have the sole" to mean that Howard was going to attempt to take Jimmy's SOUL. And he does - with that job offer, the attempt is (inadvertently) take away Jimmy's soul (Saul). Or....if Howard has outside motives for the job offer (to keep the name McGill in HHM, for example). But your POV is also cool and interesting - looking forward to your next one! (and love the analysis on the "2nd best lawyer" mug (which I always thought to mean Jimmy was 2nd best...to Howard, to Kim, to everyone...but Saul....Saul is the best at what he does. Saul is #1.)
Loved the call back to the shoplifter from last season too.
@Ological I absolutely LOVE your videos. I feel like im in english class again. The way you talk about your analyses engage me; I have learned deeper underlying themes in BCS Way to go!
Your analysis are the best by far Sir, subscribed.
Wow. Brilliant analysis. I mean really excellent.
Great commentary on the show. You’re the best I’ve seen!
I love the Lyle-Gus scene.
That's Grade A "Show, don't tell"
also i can deeply relate. a former gf of mine had OCD and I tried to suffice her needs without reinforcing the obsessiveness (I had quite a few caachings with her therapist to understand her better and to differentiate what is just unusual and what's obsessive) but I too can relate to cleaning especially cups and plates, where I didn't see a thing what's wrong.
She was lovely and a bit of a Nut. It didn't work out, but we are writing cute holiday postcards to each other.
What a great breakdown, John. Thank you!
Man, have I got cynical in my old age, but I felt like Howard was trying to play Jimmy. It read to me like he was over-selling.
Howard said he could "use" Jimmy. Once he pointedly says "I" and another time he says "HHM" could use him. One use for Howard could be to make amends as part of his spiritual journey and the second could be material gain for the firm by somehow tying Jimmy's Sandpiper Crossing fees up with the firm's finances. Maybe it's both and Howard himself doesn't quite know why or what he's proposing.
I did feel sorry for Jimmy here as another nail in his coffin is hammered home. If only Howard had proposed hiring Saul Goodman on an independent contract as needed for special jobs!
Awesome breakdown. Keep up the great work.
Kudos to the most underrated actor of this episode!
*The bowling ball*
There's a lot of tv and film analysis on youtube but this is a cut above the rest.
Excellent analysis, thanks!
Kim is not clean at all here. She is over the edge, to take it back to the last episode. She can think she is outsourcing it to Jimmy/Saul but she is actively working against her client's interests. This is more than just a conflict of interest. It is flat-out unethical conduct that can't be cured or waived. Ironically, it is less so for Jimmy, who is only tasked with representing his own client and not working against him.
Hi John! I just stumbled on your videos yesterday and I'm just amazed at your analysis and I can't stop watching your very high quality videos. Thank you for the all the work you put into these.
Tbh I didn't get why Howard had that Namaste nameplate in the first place. Namaste is only a greeting, it has no spiritual of self-awareness element to it. What exactly was the nameplate signifying from Howard's perspective is what I really wanna know.
I feel like you too have a Saul Goodman alter ego…. “Peter Gilligan”
I literally said to my wife during this episode: I bet John does a breakdown on this toothbrushing scene.
And you did 🙌