The untold truth behind 'Breaking Bad's pizza scene
What's the story
The infamous pizza-throwing scene in Breaking Bad has become one of the most iconic sequences in TV history. This unforgettable scene, where Walter White hurls a pizza onto the roof of his home, was not just a display of Bryan Cranston's acting genius but also a product of careful planning and execution from the show's creators. Here's looking at the secrets behind this memorable scene that had audiences talking for years.
Single shot
One Take Wonder
The iconic pizza-throwing scene was shot in a single take. Bryan Cranston was able to throw the pizza perfectly on the roof in his very first attempt, which was a delightful surprise for both the actor and the crew. Not only did this single-take wonder add authenticity to Walter White's frustration, but it also became a testament to Cranston's masterful performance.
Whole pie
The uncut pizza trick
One interesting detail about this scene is that the pizza used was uncut. By using an uncut pie, they ensured that when thrown, it would stay intact rather than breaking apart mid-air. This decision by Vince Gilligan and his team helped them maintain continuity and visual impact during filming.
Real house
Location challenges
The house used for filming was an actual resident's home, who allowed production on their property. But after the episode aired, fans started visiting and recreating the scene themselves by throwing pizzas onto their roof. This resulted in some trouble for homeowners who had to deal with unwanted attention from enthusiastic fans.
Lasting legacy
Impact on pop culture
The pizza-throwing moment soon became a part of pop culture with its unexpected humor in the midst of high-octane drama in Breaking Bad. It has been referenced across media platforms as well as inspiring an endless amount of memes on the internet—securing its place among television's most unforgettable moments without even uttering a word.