Comments on: Breaking Bad Breakdown: Fast Forwarding

By: Jason Mittell

Jason Mittell — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 00:16:26 +0000

Great point – I’ve thought more about Skyler’s role in this episode, especially after reading other critics’ reviews. It does seem that she’s accepted Walt back, and let go of his abusive past (it’s been established that the kids were with Hank & Marie for 3 months, so it was a pretty long period of domestic “captivity”) – Marie even mentions they’re thinking of taking a European trip. I’m very skeptical of this character move, and really hope there’s more to it that has yet to be revealed. If she has simply forgiven him now that’s he’s put down the black hat, I’m not buying it – but I don’t want to pile on the character, as there’s too much Skyler hating to attack her from the other side!

So, as you say, we’re left to wait and see…

By: Greeney28

Greeney28 — Tue, 13 Aug 2013 05:41:30 +0000

Jason, I’m so glad that I will have your work to read after each episode. What a great way to process. One quick thought about Skyler. I am not a hater of this character at all, and I’ve actually appreciated how she has been a way to gauge Walt’s descent–his treatment of her degrades with his moral character. And I loved that Jesse seeing Skyler hate Walt helped him realize Walt’s metamorphosis. But now I feel a need to process Skyler’s own descent. It isn’t enough to say that she is married and hoping for the best side of Walt. She knows too much. So how do I deal with her seeming willingness to accept “bygones” and continue on with the charade?

I’m sure there’s more here to think about, so as we proceed, I’ll look forward to your continuing thoughts.