The cleverest 'Breaking Bad' details you never noticed
What's the story
Breaking Bad is a masterpiece of a TV series that has taken the world by storm. While most of us know the main plot and characters, here are some lesser-known facts even the die-hard fans of the show might have missed. These facts give you an insight into the brilliant storytelling and character-building of the show, giving you something new to think about.
Color codes
The color symbolism in 'Breaking Bad'
Throughout Breaking Bad, color is integral to conveying themes and character arcs. Each main character is coded with certain colors that define their personality or transformation. For example, Walter White often wears green, representing his greed and ambition. Skyler White's wardrobe shifts from blue to white as her moral compass shifts. This intentional use of color adds another layer of meaning to the narrative.
Science nods
Hidden references to chemistry
Beyond Walter White's profession as a chemistry teacher-turned-meth manufacturer, the show often features chemistry references. Many episode titles are witty nods to the names of chemical elements/compounds, like Ozymandias, which references Percy Bysshe Shelley's poem about inevitable decline—a fitting metaphor for Walter's empire. These subtle inclusions emphasize the show's fidelity to its scientific roots.
Title insights
The significance of episode titles
Each episode title in Breaking Bad is thoughtfully chosen to reflect important themes or events in the storyline. For instance, Fly symbolizes Walter's obsessive nature and how he struggles to exert control over his surroundings. Another episode named ABQ stands for Albuquerque, but also doubles up as an abbreviation for airborne quality, hinting at pivotal events involving air travel mishaps.
Character origins
Real-life inspirations behind characters
Several characters in Breaking Bad are inspired by real-life people or historical figures. Vince Gilligan, the show's creator, had said Walter White was partly inspired by real-life stories of teachers who resorted to crime due to financial struggles. Saul Goodman's character was also inspired by flamboyant lawyers known for their unconventional methods.
Foreshadowing clues
Subtle foreshadowing techniques are used
The creators of Breaking Bad were absolute masters of foreshadowing, weaving in tiny details that later became pivotal. Things like teddy bears, which seem like nothing at first, are later linked to major turning points like plane crashes. This not only shows the writers's meticulous planning, but also keeps the viewers hooked with the suspenseful storytelling without giving away too much too soon.