Breaking Bad (2008)
Walter White, a New Mexico chemistry teacher, is diagnosed with Stage III cancer and given a prognosis of only two years left to live. He becomes filled with a sense of fearlessness and an unrelenting desire to secure his family's financial future at any cost as he enters the dangerous world of drugs and crime.
Details
First Air Date
1/20/2008
Last Air Date
9/29/2013
Network
AMC
Rating
9/10 (15217 votes)
Status
Ended
Production Companies
Sony Pictures Television, High Bridge Productions, Gran Via Productions
About Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad explores the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with terminal cancer, into a formidable drug lord. Set in New Mexico, the series delves into themes of morality, family loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power within the crime genre. The narrative often employs elements of dark comedy and tragedy as Walter navigates the dangerous world of crystal meth production and distribution.
The series is characterized by its deep exploration of character, particularly Walter's descent into narcissism and his conflict with various criminals and DEA agents. The plot frequently involves complex situations arising from his meth lab operations and interactions with cartels. This progression from an ordinary teacher to an outlaw dealing with terminal illness is central to the show's appeal.
Over five seasons and 62 episodes, Breaking Bad consistently maintains a high level of intensity, building towards a conclusion that ties together its intricate plotlines. Its status as an ended series allows for a complete narrative arc, offering a detailed study of a man's fall from grace.
Why you might be searching for Breaking Bad
Users frequently search for specific, often violent or shocking, scenes from Breaking Bad, like detailed descriptions of drug-related incidents, character deaths, or particularly intense confrontations. This indicates that the show's dramatic and dark elements leave a strong impression, prompting viewers to recall and re-examine key plot points and character fates.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer, initially hesitant about drug-themed shows, found themselves engrossed from the beginning, despite experiencing the original broadcast's split seasons.
Read the full reviewA viewer who initially found the first season boring and stopped watching later returned to the series, ultimately declaring it a masterpiece, especially praising the fifth season for its shocking and mind-blowing events.
Read the full reviewA reviewer felt the show started strong but noted a decline in quality after its penultimate season.
Read the full reviewOne critic found the series to be formulaic and dull, suggesting it caters to viewers who enjoy feeling superior due to its portrayal of a 'smart guy' in the drug trade.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
All five seasons of "Breaking Bad" are available to stream on Netflix in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. In the US, AMC+ and Philo (higher tier) also offer the show. You can also purchase individual seasons on platforms like Amazon, Apple TV Store, Fandango at Home, and Google Play. While there is no consistently free streaming option, Pluto TV occasionally features rotating episodes on a dedicated channel in the US.
"Breaking Bad" is not based on a true story; it is an original series created by Vince Gilligan. However, its portrayal of the methamphetamine trade did incorporate extensive research.
"Breaking Bad" has five seasons, consisting of 62 episodes. The series premiered on January 20, 2008, and concluded on September 29, 2013.
"Breaking Bad" is widely considered one of the greatest television series of all time, receiving critical acclaim for its performances, writing, and direction. It has won numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards, and holds a Metacritic score of 87 out of 100.