BETTER CALL SAUL “Pimento” Review


Has Jimmy really scored the case of his career? And will Chuck manage to overcome his phobia to help his younger brother? Read on to find out.

The official description from AMC:

Chuck urges Jimmy to accept a harsh truth. A deal threatens to go off the rails when Mike’s ability to complete a job is called into question.

Better Call Saul‘s first season is nearing it’s end, and things just keep getting better. Having given us a mixture of fun, exciting, and plain crazy episodes, this inaugural season has moved from strength to strength, with the impressive flurry of events rivaling that of it’s parents show Breaking Bad. It’s also done a fabulous job of expanding the universe that Vince Gilligan created seven years ago, with more than just Saul’s past being in the spotlight.

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Having finally picked up his dream case, all be it not necessarily in the form he expected, Jimmy is full of life, excited to be working side by side with his big brother, and inspiration, Chuck McGill. That buzz is however quickly killed, as when Chuck explains how this is a case that is impossible for two lawyers to work alone, he’s forced to take it to HHM. Now, as fans can guess, this isn’t something that Jimmy does lightheartedly, and the outcome is extremely dramatic. That being said, I don’t want to give away any crucial spoilers, so will move on the other developments. Once again spending a lot of time on Mike’s transition into the criminal world, the writing and direction of Thomas Schnauz more than impressed, with the smooth transition, and dramatic tone being utterly gripping.

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Bob Odenkirk (Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman) isn’t his usual comic self in this episode, as between the let down at HHM, and later revelations, there’s not much for his loveable character to be joyful about. This stands as a testament to Odenkirk’s acting ability, as though the show as a whole wouldn’t be the same without the comic flair, it’s always nice to see a sense of reality from the actors within. The accompanying cast also show their worth in this episode, as though that statement alone isn’t new, it’s not often that we see all members shine. It is however Michael McKean (Chuck McGill) and Patrick Fabian (Howard Hamlin) that impress most, as though Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut) is as ever awesome, these two actors showed real depth, like never before.

Better Call Saul never fails to shock, as though the big twist in “Pimento” was something that I expected a couple of episodes ago, it was never the less, impactful. The amazing cast, and clever script writing also makes the show a must watch, with it’s current momentum making the thought of this show up staging Breaking Bad more believable than ever before.

OUR RATING
9.5
  • + Chuck gets some spotlight.
  • + Serious Jimmy is more interesting than his comic self.
  • + Mike continues to be a staple part of this show.
  • - Some developments were predictable.