Breaking Bad: “Bug” Review
Wow, this episode took a dark turn. “Bug” manages to maintain that critical balancing act between plot and character, moving both along with impressive precision. This was easily one of the best episodes of the season, taking its time with both setup and execution. I haven’t been this excited about Breaking Bad since last season.
First, I like how “Bug” starts off with one of the flash-forwards we used to see back in Season 2. I know it’s not the most original story-telling device, but when you see Walt dripping blood and his glasses broken on the floor, how can you not get sucked in? And “Bug” doesn’t slow down a bit, throwing us right back into the Hank/Walt dynamic we saw last week.
“Bug” is an episode where everything starts to fall apart. Though you can probably say that about every Breaking Bad episode, it’s especially true here. Hank’s never been this involved in the case… well, except maybe in last year’s “Sunset,” when he stood outside the RV. Still, the stakes are higher and there’s a lot more physical evidence this time around. If Gus gets caught, it’ll all come crashing down.
And as if things aren’t bad enough, Skyler’s going through hell, too. Did anyone expect Ted to show up and drop such a bombshell? Skyler is typically careful, but like Walt, there’s room for improvement. I’m still waiting for her divorce attorney to call her out on what she’s doing. Let’s not forget that she told her attorney about Walt being a drug manufacturer.
But for now, it’s her criminal activity in Ted’s business that causes problems. Skyler tries to fake her way out by pleading ignorance. Though it was a good idea given the circumstances, she came off more annoying than usual (I know that was the point, but she took it a little far). But as Skyler pointed out, it’s better to look dumb than guilty.
Meanwhile, the Cartel moves into action, as they shoot Gus’ assistant in the head at the most unexpected moment. The surprising and exhilarating moment culminates with Gus walking straight into the line of fire, knowing that he’s indispensable and too important to the business. A bold (though unrealistic) move.
But let’s get to the best part of “Bug” - that amazing fight between Walt and Jesse. We’ve seen them go at it before, but never to this extent, and never in such a dark manner. Their fights usually have an underlying comic value, and that’s certainly not the case here.
Gus has succeeded in turning the two against one another, and we learn that Jesse now has to teach the Cartel Walt’s recipe in Mexico. Walt mockingly adds, “go to Mexico and screw up, like I know you will, and end up in a barrel somewhere,” before they try and kill each other. The fight is well acted, directed, and will easily be one of the defining moments of Season 4.
You know an episode of television is good when you have something to say about every scene in the show. That’s the case with “Bug” and I hope I’ve touched on all the major plot points. I know there’s things I missed (oh! That scene at Gus’ house? Terrifying, like last year’s “Abiquiu.”), but I won’t bore you by turning this into an essay.
“Bug” is yet another great episode of Breaking Bad that pushes the story forward in all the right ways. Season 4 is moving right along with incredible velocity. With four episodes left this season, I can’t wait to see where the show goes. Can it really end well for anybody?
-MP
Note: The review is from Review Hub Central.
