Breaking Bad: The Movie That Never Was (But We Wish Existed!)
Hey guys, let's dive into something that's been a hot topic among Breaking Bad fans for ages: the hypothetical Breaking Bad movie, specifically focusing on the idea of one potentially released in 2017. While the critically acclaimed series concluded in 2013, the thought of a movie continuation has always been a tantalizing prospect. Imagine, just for a moment, a feature film revisiting the gritty world of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. What kind of story could it tell? What would the landscape of Albuquerque look like after the events of the finale? This article explores the allure of a Breaking Bad movie, speculates on potential plots, and discusses what such a film might have looked like if it had graced our screens in 2017. We'll also touch upon the actual Breaking Bad movie that did come to fruition, El Camino, and how it quenched (or didn't!) our thirst for more Breaking Bad goodness. So, buckle up, because we're about to cook up some ideas!
The Allure of a Breaking Bad Movie
Firstly, let's be honest, the desire for a Breaking Bad movie is a testament to the show's incredible impact. Breaking Bad wasn't just a TV show; it was a cultural phenomenon. The characters, the plot twists, the cinematography, the music – everything blended to create a viewing experience that was both captivating and unforgettable. The thought of revisiting that world, seeing these characters again, and exploring new facets of their stories is undeniably appealing. A movie would provide the opportunity to delve deeper into the aftermath of the series finale. For many, the ending, while satisfying, left some lingering questions. A film could offer closure, answer those questions, or even introduce new ones, expanding the Breaking Bad universe in exciting ways. We could have witnessed the fallout for Jesse Pinkman, or perhaps explored the rise and fall of other characters. The potential was (and still is) limitless. Moreover, the series' success created a demand. Fans wanted more! The narrative structure of Breaking Bad, with its meticulous pacing and dramatic tension, lends itself perfectly to the big screen. A movie could have expanded the scope, explored new locations, and provided a cinematic experience that built upon the show's already impressive visual style. Imagine seeing the New Mexico desert in glorious widescreen, or witnessing the intensity of a high-stakes drug deal with enhanced sound design. So, the appeal of a Breaking Bad movie in 2017 was not merely about wanting more content; it was about the desire for a richer, more immersive experience within a beloved universe. The idea of seeing Bryan Cranston embody Walter White once again, or watching Aaron Paul navigate Jesse Pinkman's troubled path, was a compelling prospect for millions of fans worldwide. It's safe to say, the hype would have been real!
Potential Plots and Storylines: What Could Have Been in 2017?
Okay, let's get into the fun part: speculating on what a Breaking Bad movie might have entailed if it had been released in 2017. Here are a few plotlines that fans, including myself, have often fantasized about:
- Jesse Pinkman's Escape: This is perhaps the most obvious and frequently discussed possibility. The series finale left Jesse in a precarious position, having escaped from captivity. A movie could have followed his journey to freedom, showcasing his struggle to survive and evade those who would seek to capture or kill him. The film might have explored his attempts to start a new life, the psychological scars of his past, and the choices he would have to make to ensure his survival. This plotline has now been somewhat realized with El Camino, however, there were many angles that could have been taken. The film could have shown Jesse's dealings with the authorities, the lingering threat of the Aryan Brotherhood, or even a reunion with his loved ones, such as his parents. The emotional weight of Jesse's character arc would have made for a powerful and moving narrative.
- The Aftermath in Albuquerque: A movie could have focused on the consequences of Walter White's actions on Albuquerque. We could have seen the city grapple with the rise and fall of the drug trade, the impact on law enforcement, and the ripple effects on the remaining characters. A plotline might have explored the rise of new criminal figures, the investigation into Walter White's activities, or the efforts to clean up the city. Imagine Hank Schrader's investigation continuing after his death, or perhaps a new DEA agent stepping in to take on the case. This would have provided a broader view of the Breaking Bad universe and explored the long-term consequences of the events of the series.
- A Prequel or Spin-off: The series provided plenty of characters that were worthy of more content. While we eventually got Better Call Saul, another angle could have explored the early days of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman's partnership. This could have delved into their initial interactions, the development of their meth empire, and the relationships with other key characters. A prequel movie could have offered insights into the origins of the iconic moments and provide a fresh perspective on the events that shaped the series. This approach could also have focused on other characters, like Mike Ehrmantraut or Gus Fring, detailing their backstories and expanding on their involvement in the criminal underworld.
- Walter White's Return (Or a Ghost Story): Given the ambiguity surrounding Walter White's death, there was always the possibility of a return, either literally or figuratively. A movie could have shown how he survived the events of the finale or the impact of his actions on those around him. Perhaps a movie that focused on the influence of Walter's legacy and the consequences that still lingered. His impact could have been shown through flashbacks. Imagine a movie that explores how Walter's choices continue to affect his family and friends long after his supposed death. This would have added a unique layer of intrigue and mystery to the narrative.
The Real Deal: El Camino and Its Impact
Fast forward to 2019, and our collective wish for a Breaking Bad movie finally came true with the release of El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie. This film focused on Jesse Pinkman's escape and his journey to freedom. While not a movie released in 2017, it did offer a cinematic continuation of the story, finally giving fans a deeper insight into what happened to Jesse after the series finale. El Camino provided closure for Jesse's character arc and explored his psychological trauma and his struggle to find peace. The film's critical reception was mixed, with some fans praising its focus on Jesse's story and its faithfulness to the series' tone, while others felt it was unnecessary or failed to live up to the original series. However, El Camino did provide what we had all been wanting, which was more Breaking Bad. In my opinion, the movie was done very well, and the details and connections were exactly what any fan of the show would have wanted.
El Camino also served as a reminder of the power of the Breaking Bad universe and its ability to captivate audiences. It demonstrated the enduring popularity of the series and the demand for more content. It highlighted the importance of character-driven storytelling, the power of visual storytelling, and the incredible chemistry between the actors. While it wasn't the exact movie we might have envisioned in 2017, it fulfilled a fundamental need and reminded us why we loved Breaking Bad in the first place.
The Legacy of Breaking Bad and the Future of the Franchise
Breaking Bad's impact on television is undeniable. It pushed boundaries, redefined the concept of anti-heroes, and set a new standard for narrative storytelling. The show's success has spawned a dedicated fanbase and inspired countless discussions, analyses, and debates. The show continues to be discovered by new audiences, cementing its place as a modern masterpiece. The future of the Breaking Bad franchise is open to speculation. With the success of Better Call Saul and El Camino, the creative possibilities seem limitless. There could be additional spin-offs, prequels, or even a return to the original characters in the future. The series has already shown a willingness to explore different narrative approaches and expand on the established universe. The lasting legacy of Breaking Bad lies in its compelling characters, its intricately woven plotlines, and its unflinching exploration of morality and the human condition. It's a show that continues to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll, making it a timeless work of art. The show's influence can be seen in numerous other television shows and movies, all of which are trying to capture the success of the series. The show redefined television and what was possible within it.
Final Thoughts: The Movie We Dreamed Of
So, would a Breaking Bad movie have been a success in 2017? Most likely, yes. The potential storylines were fascinating, and the opportunity to revisit the characters and the world of Albuquerque was irresistible. El Camino demonstrated the audience's enthusiasm for a cinematic continuation of the series. While the exact form it might have taken remains a matter of speculation, the enduring legacy of Breaking Bad guarantees that fans will continue to discuss and imagine the possibilities of what could have been. The series' influence and the desire for more content are a testament to the show's lasting impact. Whether it was the raw emotion, the stunning visuals, or the impeccable writing, the story of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman captivated audiences. So, let's raise a glass to the show that redefined television, and to the movie that, even if it never fully materialized in our imaginations, continues to inspire conversation and speculation.
In conclusion, the idea of a Breaking Bad movie in 2017 is a fascinating thought experiment. The series left us wanting more, and the potential stories were limitless. While El Camino did provide a satisfying continuation of the story, we can still daydream about the what-ifs and the could-have-beens. What if Walter White had returned? What if the story had focused on a different character? The possibilities are endless, and the passion that fans have for the show ensures that the legacy of Breaking Bad will continue to thrive for years to come. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go watch some more Breaking Bad (again!).