I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this episode. It's a dialogue-fuelled one that consists of one conversation between various characters after another, and yet it's surprisingly engaging, so much so that it's tough to take your eyes away from the screen for a second. The plot might barely progress, but the character work is fantastic, really grounding the main players and giving them realistic motivations.
38 Reviews
Jesse has standards and Walt's family stage an intervention
Tweekums2 October 2012
Warning: Spoilers
When Jesse applies for a job he is hoping to be offered a job in sales; he is not impressed when it turns out that the position in question involves walking around dressed as a giant dollar bill. His friend Badger has less pride and had already doing that job! Jesse turns it down but he gets chatting to Badger who asks if he has any meth; he doesn't but decides they can make it when Badger says he can provide a key ingredient. The two of them take the RV out to the desert and start cooking. Badger is impressed with the results but Walt's standards have rubbed off on Jesse; he won't settle for anything less than top quality. Walt isn't having the best of times either; he goes to a party for an old friend and former partner; a man who has built his success on worn he did with Walt. When he learns of Walt's cancer he offers to help financially but Walt's pride prevents him accepting. Skyler can't understand this and decides to stage an intervention.
It is interesting to see how the characters have gradually changed over the course of the series; when we first met Jesse he wouldn't have worried about the quality of his product but thanks to Walt's influence he cares enough to throw away something he could sell for a lot of money rather than settling for second best... even if that product is illegal. The scenes with Jesse and Badger provided the episode's laughs and it certainly needed them given the rather sad nature of Walt's story; the scene where his family discuss what to do will hit a nerve with anybody who has lost somebody to cancer. I liked how the two leads spent the majority of the episode apart but their experiences showed that if they wanted to make the money they needed they will have to start working together again... Walter to make it and Jesse to sell it.
It is interesting to see how the characters have gradually changed over the course of the series; when we first met Jesse he wouldn't have worried about the quality of his product but thanks to Walt's influence he cares enough to throw away something he could sell for a lot of money rather than settling for second best... even if that product is illegal. The scenes with Jesse and Badger provided the episode's laughs and it certainly needed them given the rather sad nature of Walt's story; the scene where his family discuss what to do will hit a nerve with anybody who has lost somebody to cancer. I liked how the two leads spent the majority of the episode apart but their experiences showed that if they wanted to make the money they needed they will have to start working together again... Walter to make it and Jesse to sell it.
The Power of the Pillow
Hitchcoc20 October 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Walter is such a wonderful character. When his brother in law uses his silly poker analogy, it's really not far from the truth. A man who has been disappointed in himself from the first day is now facing the end of his life. His family, who disagree that the decision should be his, hold an intervention (the kind usually used for addicts). It is an uncomfortable session, and he finally admits how unhappy he is and he never has choices. A friend who has incredible wealth offers to pay for his treatment, but his pride won't let him accept. On the other front, Jesse is back trying to cook but is having no success. He is egged on by a loser friend who has a peanut brain. This is after Jesse has tried to find legitimate work. He wants to quit. Well, we can all guess what is coming because there are things to be paid. A very good episode with awesome acting.
Excruciating painful to watch
gennahoveling24 June 2018
Warning: Spoilers
This episode shows a lot of masterful awkward and irritated mimics on the surface.
Down deep, we see this is a consequence of Walt's hurt ego.
I was left asking myself, exasperated, "why Walt, why ruin the opportunity of fixing everything by simply accepting money. Why hurt everybody around you when you can just fix it".
The answer: his pride in not taking money from the man who picked away Walt's crush, the man who made their business a success without it benefiting Walt.
And recognizing yourself in this misplaced feeling of anguish, is the reason of my exasperation, and why this episode is so painful to watch.
I imagine Walt looking into his future paths: taking money and die feeling like you did not choose for this, or die even faster but with the pride feeling this path was your choice.
It's painful to admit that I would prefer the last option, and that's why this episode is so excellent - and so painful to watch.
Breaking Bad is known for its supreme tension, build-up and action. But crafting masterful drama takes more than that; it takes a good look on characters, their painfully recognisable flaws, and the convincing ways to show how these flawed characters conflict and break.
Down deep, we see this is a consequence of Walt's hurt ego.
I was left asking myself, exasperated, "why Walt, why ruin the opportunity of fixing everything by simply accepting money. Why hurt everybody around you when you can just fix it".
The answer: his pride in not taking money from the man who picked away Walt's crush, the man who made their business a success without it benefiting Walt.
And recognizing yourself in this misplaced feeling of anguish, is the reason of my exasperation, and why this episode is so painful to watch.
I imagine Walt looking into his future paths: taking money and die feeling like you did not choose for this, or die even faster but with the pride feeling this path was your choice.
It's painful to admit that I would prefer the last option, and that's why this episode is so excellent - and so painful to watch.
Breaking Bad is known for its supreme tension, build-up and action. But crafting masterful drama takes more than that; it takes a good look on characters, their painfully recognisable flaws, and the convincing ways to show how these flawed characters conflict and break.
All right, I've got the talking pillow now
kwintly12 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is just another reason to love Breaking Bad. It's loaded with dialogue, none more important than the pillow talk session by Skyler and the rest of the family for Walt to know their concerns on his refusal to take treatment. Walt Jnr calls it bullshit and cusses his dad for giving up and refusing treatment, alluding to what if they gave up on him when he was a kid. This was in between conflicting views from Skyler, Marie and Hank, then Walt, tired of all the bickering takes the pillow before giving them a piece of his thought process. And wow, all I can say is Vince Gilligan and Bryan Cranston are a match made in heaven.
Dialog-Based, But Still Excellent!
g-bodyl5 December 2013
Warning: Spoilers
The fifth Breaking Bad episode is another wonderful episode in a brilliant collection of episodes. I don't know how they keep making this so addictive, but with each passing episode, I have come to respect this show more and more. This episode is more dialog-based, but that doesn't stop it from being excellent. The dialog is important as we see what complications Walt has to deal with and also, the dialog is really amazing as well.
This episode, "Gray Matter" is about how Walt refuses help from anybody including his ex-business partner. Jesse tries to get a real job, but realizes there is more money to be had in selling meth. Walt Jr. Gets in trouble from the law but is lectured by Hank.
Overall, this is a very solid episode that is essentially all dialog, no action. But I don't care since this is one of those episodes that sets the story in motion. Thanks to some strong character interplay, this episode is very, very good. I rate this episode 9/10.
This episode, "Gray Matter" is about how Walt refuses help from anybody including his ex-business partner. Jesse tries to get a real job, but realizes there is more money to be had in selling meth. Walt Jr. Gets in trouble from the law but is lectured by Hank.
Overall, this is a very solid episode that is essentially all dialog, no action. But I don't care since this is one of those episodes that sets the story in motion. Thanks to some strong character interplay, this episode is very, very good. I rate this episode 9/10.
Tipping point!
and_mikkelsen15 March 2023
I see this as a pivertal episode in the show! Much like the previous episode this episodes dives deeper into the minds of our characters to show us their perspectives and inner conflicts!
It mainly focuses on Walt and we begin to see what he has been through and what is troubling him! This is key to understand his whole character arc through the show! I think episode shows us his inner reasons for the decisions he is making and why he goes down the path he does! Other previous events have trickered it but he we get the moment of decision and clarity!
The creators and actors overall does a great job of making the characters and their actions very believable!
It mainly focuses on Walt and we begin to see what he has been through and what is troubling him! This is key to understand his whole character arc through the show! I think episode shows us his inner reasons for the decisions he is making and why he goes down the path he does! Other previous events have trickered it but he we get the moment of decision and clarity!
The creators and actors overall does a great job of making the characters and their actions very believable!
Gray Matter (#1.5)
ComedyFan201024 December 2013
Warning: Spoilers
In his episodes the characters are exploring their other possibilities that don't require them cooking meth. For Walt it is simply to not get treatment. We meet people from his past who want to help him, but he doesn't accept it. The whole family then gets together to have a sort of intervention with him where everyone shares his feelings. It is a beautiful, emotional, well thought through and greatly acted scene. They all bring their different concerns which are very valid. Yes, my favorite scene in the episode.
Jesse tries to get a job, but this doesn't go well. Him and a friend of his get together to cook some meth, but it doesn't fit Jesse's standard of a perfect drug he made with Walt. Those scenes are providing some comic relief. "It is basic chemistry, yo!".
But it is great they are back together, looking forward to what is next!
Jesse tries to get a job, but this doesn't go well. Him and a friend of his get together to cook some meth, but it doesn't fit Jesse's standard of a perfect drug he made with Walt. Those scenes are providing some comic relief. "It is basic chemistry, yo!".
But it is great they are back together, looking forward to what is next!
Perhaps the most pivital episode of the entire series
coltsfan96315 October 2018
Warning: Spoilers
SPOILER WARNING
Like no other series I have ever watched, almost every single episode Breaking Bad had a set propose. The series is considered by many to be the greatest of all-time because it is almost a perfect tapestry from start to finish. And while Gray Matter might seem like a simple slow, dialogue-filled episode for somebody watching the series for the first time, it is one of the most important episodes of all of Breaking Bad as a whole. It's the episode that Walter White makes his decision to take it one step further. It's the episode that showcases his pride as a contributing factor to his decision-making. It's also the episode where we finally start to get a look into Walter's past, and we can start to understand why a person of his exceptional intellect never made anything of himself.
Life is funny in how some very gifted people never find success, while others with far less skill fly high. Opportunities come and go, but for some the ones that go make all the difference. Walter White had success in his pathway and he opted for a simpler life. He regrets this decision, and you can see it in the way he handles his affairs and relationships. Hell, in the pilot episode Walter doesn't even check to see if his son needs help out of the car when they arrive at the school in the morning. He's egotistical, fairly selfish and prideful from the start. And his resentment towards his family is clear. His resentment towards his old friends is made even clearer in Gray Matter.
All of the important parts of what make Walter White perhaps the greatest character in the history of television are shown in this episode. And it's these tiny implications that make Vince Gilligan such a profound storyteller. It was all there. We just didn't realize it our first times through the series. But going back and rewatching the "boring, filler" episodes like Gray Matter only serve to remind how incredible this show is!
Like no other series I have ever watched, almost every single episode Breaking Bad had a set propose. The series is considered by many to be the greatest of all-time because it is almost a perfect tapestry from start to finish. And while Gray Matter might seem like a simple slow, dialogue-filled episode for somebody watching the series for the first time, it is one of the most important episodes of all of Breaking Bad as a whole. It's the episode that Walter White makes his decision to take it one step further. It's the episode that showcases his pride as a contributing factor to his decision-making. It's also the episode where we finally start to get a look into Walter's past, and we can start to understand why a person of his exceptional intellect never made anything of himself.
Life is funny in how some very gifted people never find success, while others with far less skill fly high. Opportunities come and go, but for some the ones that go make all the difference. Walter White had success in his pathway and he opted for a simpler life. He regrets this decision, and you can see it in the way he handles his affairs and relationships. Hell, in the pilot episode Walter doesn't even check to see if his son needs help out of the car when they arrive at the school in the morning. He's egotistical, fairly selfish and prideful from the start. And his resentment towards his family is clear. His resentment towards his old friends is made even clearer in Gray Matter.
All of the important parts of what make Walter White perhaps the greatest character in the history of television are shown in this episode. And it's these tiny implications that make Vince Gilligan such a profound storyteller. It was all there. We just didn't realize it our first times through the series. But going back and rewatching the "boring, filler" episodes like Gray Matter only serve to remind how incredible this show is!
Talking, talking, and even more talking - yet it's actually quite a great episode!
stillworkingfortheknife7 October 2013
While being without a doubt the most dialog-focused episode of the season, "Gray Matter" was the one that got me hooked again as I first watched this fantastic series. The premise is the same as it was in "Cancer Man" with Walt and Jesse still going separate ways. The one now gets confronted by his family due to his aversion to cancer treatment plus his continuing strange behavior; the other once again tries to succeed in life on his own after both his parents and Walt have left him alone.
The pre-credits scene brings a huge novelty for Breaking Bad as we see Jesse suiting up for a job interview that – didn't we expect it? – doesn't work the way he wanted it too. I always love to listen to this dude talking and so I quite enjoyed this introduction, however, it also brought us Matt Jones' Badger, a junkie similarly as unsuccessful with life as Jesse. I really don't like his character and I'm not at all able to take him seriously since he's just too moronic. Now that wouldn't be too bad if "Gray Matter" were the only episode he's starring in, but unfortunately, he returns for eleven additional episodes in the future. Through that, you can reason that I didn't enjoy the scenes with him on screen that much, although Aaron Paul partially compensated for that with great acting. The real assets of this episode were all the conversation scenes between Walt and Skyler plus sometimes Walt Jr., Hank, and Marie. In one outstanding scene of almost 15 minutes, the latter of this list stage an intervention for Walt. Each and every one of them gets the talking pillow (applause to whoever came up with that idea!) and with the number of minutes increasing, you'll find yourself more and more admiring the screen writing and acting work the cast of Breaking Bad has done with this scene.
"Gray Matter" had other touching, amusing, or simply entertaining moments too, which made it a generally really good episode for me. It's just that because of the emphasis laying on the conversations, it's not that thrilling anymore if you re-watch it and, as I've already said, Badger ruins it a bit for my taste.
The pre-credits scene brings a huge novelty for Breaking Bad as we see Jesse suiting up for a job interview that – didn't we expect it? – doesn't work the way he wanted it too. I always love to listen to this dude talking and so I quite enjoyed this introduction, however, it also brought us Matt Jones' Badger, a junkie similarly as unsuccessful with life as Jesse. I really don't like his character and I'm not at all able to take him seriously since he's just too moronic. Now that wouldn't be too bad if "Gray Matter" were the only episode he's starring in, but unfortunately, he returns for eleven additional episodes in the future. Through that, you can reason that I didn't enjoy the scenes with him on screen that much, although Aaron Paul partially compensated for that with great acting. The real assets of this episode were all the conversation scenes between Walt and Skyler plus sometimes Walt Jr., Hank, and Marie. In one outstanding scene of almost 15 minutes, the latter of this list stage an intervention for Walt. Each and every one of them gets the talking pillow (applause to whoever came up with that idea!) and with the number of minutes increasing, you'll find yourself more and more admiring the screen writing and acting work the cast of Breaking Bad has done with this scene.
"Gray Matter" had other touching, amusing, or simply entertaining moments too, which made it a generally really good episode for me. It's just that because of the emphasis laying on the conversations, it's not that thrilling anymore if you re-watch it and, as I've already said, Badger ruins it a bit for my taste.
Wanna Cook?
HotHamlet3 August 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Interesting to hear about Walter White's connection to the very successful company Grey Matter. This also includes his fractured relationship with Gretchen and Elliot. It has to be said that this is something that is brought up time and time again throughout the multiple seasons of Breaking Bad and i love it. It gives us one of the many reasons Walt goes down the path that he does and the main reason as to why he will not accept Elliot's charity specifically. Offering Walter a job at a company named after him, he must of seen it as a sick joke i'd assume.
The family gathering mid-way through the episode where Skyler, Marie, Walt Jr and Hank talk to Walter about their feelings on the matter of his cancer is a scene we didn't need as literally as soon as this scene ends Walt goes against everything he said in the small talk with the family and accepts the treatment. That being said i didn't think it took away from the episode and if anything may have added it. It showed us (partially) how the cast of family thinks on Walts incurable cancer diagnosis. Although like i said, it wasn't very necessary.
We meet Badger in this episode and he seems charming to say the least. All jokes aside the scenes where him and Jesse attempt to cook something similar to Walt's "art" is a nice little addition to show just how skilled Walt is. He is an overqualified at almost anything chemistry related, he's overpowered in chemistry. Badger is also a character we see a lot more of in future episodes and this introduction to him is actually alright.
Then the end of the episode when Walt asks Jesse if he want's to cook more meth is class. We suspect that because the show is called Breaking Bad that Walt won't stop making meth forever, however it is handle very well at the end of this episode. As we find out how much his treatment will be costing him throughout the episode.
Overall a pretty good episode with a scene that doesn't add much but is a nice little novelty none the less.
I give this episode a 7/10.
The family gathering mid-way through the episode where Skyler, Marie, Walt Jr and Hank talk to Walter about their feelings on the matter of his cancer is a scene we didn't need as literally as soon as this scene ends Walt goes against everything he said in the small talk with the family and accepts the treatment. That being said i didn't think it took away from the episode and if anything may have added it. It showed us (partially) how the cast of family thinks on Walts incurable cancer diagnosis. Although like i said, it wasn't very necessary.
We meet Badger in this episode and he seems charming to say the least. All jokes aside the scenes where him and Jesse attempt to cook something similar to Walt's "art" is a nice little addition to show just how skilled Walt is. He is an overqualified at almost anything chemistry related, he's overpowered in chemistry. Badger is also a character we see a lot more of in future episodes and this introduction to him is actually alright.
Then the end of the episode when Walt asks Jesse if he want's to cook more meth is class. We suspect that because the show is called Breaking Bad that Walt won't stop making meth forever, however it is handle very well at the end of this episode. As we find out how much his treatment will be costing him throughout the episode.
Overall a pretty good episode with a scene that doesn't add much but is a nice little novelty none the less.
I give this episode a 7/10.
It's intervention time
TheLittleSongbird28 May 2018
'Breaking Bad' is one of the most popular rated shows on IMDb, is one of those rarities where every season has either been very positively received or near-universally acclaimed critically and where all of my friends have said nothing but great things about.
Very few shows in recent memory had me so hooked from the very start that before the week was over the whole show had been watched, especially when for a lot of shows now airing watching one episode all the way through can be an endeavour. 'Breaking Bad' had that effect on me, and its reputation as one of the best, consistently brilliant and most addictive shows in many years (maybe even ever) is more than deserved in my eyes. Its weakest season is perhaps the first season, understandable as any show's first season is the one where things are still settling.
Actually everything is established remarkably from the very start, but once the writing and characterisation becomes even meatier the show reaches even higher levels.
"Gray Matter" is not quite as good as in particular the exceptional pilot episode, one of the best television show pilots ever, and "And the Bag's in the River". It doesn't quite have as much of the tension and tautness of those episodes. It is still a wonderful and hugely compelling episode, even though very dialogue-heavy and action-light. Badger for my tastes is a bit too much of an idiot which detracts and jars from the episode's seriousness.
Visually, "Gray Matter" is both stylish and beautiful, with photography and editing that are cinematic quality and put a lot of films today to shame, where there are a lot of visually beautiful ones but also some painfully amateurish looking ones. The music always has the appropriate mood, never too intrusive, never too muted.
The writing for "Gray Matter" is a fine example of how to have a lot of style but also to have a lot of substance. The dialogue throughout is thought-provoking and tense, while also have a darkly wicked sense of humour and heart-tugging pathos. The story is texturally rich, intimate, tense and layered, with the pace of it consistently deliberate but taut enough. The direction couldn't be better.
Can't say anything bad about the acting. Bryan Cranston is phenomenal as one of the most fascinating anti-heroes, or even of any kind of character, in either film or television. Aaron Paul has never been better and Anna Gunn is affecting. The characters are compelling in their realism.
Overall, wonderful. 9/10 Bethany Cox
Very few shows in recent memory had me so hooked from the very start that before the week was over the whole show had been watched, especially when for a lot of shows now airing watching one episode all the way through can be an endeavour. 'Breaking Bad' had that effect on me, and its reputation as one of the best, consistently brilliant and most addictive shows in many years (maybe even ever) is more than deserved in my eyes. Its weakest season is perhaps the first season, understandable as any show's first season is the one where things are still settling.
Actually everything is established remarkably from the very start, but once the writing and characterisation becomes even meatier the show reaches even higher levels.
"Gray Matter" is not quite as good as in particular the exceptional pilot episode, one of the best television show pilots ever, and "And the Bag's in the River". It doesn't quite have as much of the tension and tautness of those episodes. It is still a wonderful and hugely compelling episode, even though very dialogue-heavy and action-light. Badger for my tastes is a bit too much of an idiot which detracts and jars from the episode's seriousness.
Visually, "Gray Matter" is both stylish and beautiful, with photography and editing that are cinematic quality and put a lot of films today to shame, where there are a lot of visually beautiful ones but also some painfully amateurish looking ones. The music always has the appropriate mood, never too intrusive, never too muted.
The writing for "Gray Matter" is a fine example of how to have a lot of style but also to have a lot of substance. The dialogue throughout is thought-provoking and tense, while also have a darkly wicked sense of humour and heart-tugging pathos. The story is texturally rich, intimate, tense and layered, with the pace of it consistently deliberate but taut enough. The direction couldn't be better.
Can't say anything bad about the acting. Bryan Cranston is phenomenal as one of the most fascinating anti-heroes, or even of any kind of character, in either film or television. Aaron Paul has never been better and Anna Gunn is affecting. The characters are compelling in their realism.
Overall, wonderful. 9/10 Bethany Cox
Breaking Bad - Gray Matter
Scarecrow-8826 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is a sobering account of Walt's dealing with whether or not to take chemotherapy for his cancer. An old flame from his past is married to his former chemistry colleague. Elliot Schwartz (Adam Godley) was a graduate student and friend at the same college as Mr. White. Elliot's wife, Gretchen (Jessica Hecht) was someone Walter was deeply, emotionally involved with, yet the results were marriage to his pal. That baggage has never quite left him. Attending a birthday party at Elliot's mansion, WW sees how different Elliot's and his career paths diverged. Elliot offers to pay for Mr. White's cancer treatments, with Skyler definitely in favor of such charity. Walt isn't too keen on accepting his charity, however. Gretchen tries to appeal to Walt to take the money, but she knows (their conversation is quiet, withdrawn, and full of concealment (mostly on Walt's part)) why he insists not to accept. Meanwhile, Jesse tries (and fails miserably) to cook meth from memory (while working with Walt), along with his dope-head buddy, Badger (Matt Jones) inside the Winnebago. Not talking about the treatment, Skyler is fed up and holds a "family meeting" consisting of her sister, Hank, and Walt, Jr. All of them (a love seat pillow given to each when they are allowed to say their piece) have their say, with Walt just not wanting the treatment despite Skyler's objections. Marie (Betsy Brandt) surprises Skyler by saying she believes he ought to choose what is best for him, not what others want him to do. Walt, Jr. calls him a pussy! After some contemplation, though, Walt agrees to the chemotherapy. The family gathering gives Hank a funny moment to use sports analogies as a description for facing fear in the wake of the cancer in Walt's body, with Marie rolling her eyes and Skyler regretting passing him the pillow. Jesse and Badger really have a row, but neither packs much of a punch, mainly just scuffling, but it's hilarious.
Nullifies the strength of the premise
yavermbizi11 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
My overall rating of "Breaking Bad"'s Season 1: 5/10
In the pilot episode we are presented with a very dark and compelling premise: an American teacher lives in poverty with his family: a pregnant wife and a disabled son. He is disrespected everywhere: in the classroom, at his second job at a carwash and among his friends and relatives (even if they put up a certain front). To make matters worse, he finds out he has lung cancer, and - as happens in the US - his insurance won't cover any treatment. To provide for his family, he turns to an easy income - cooking drugs. This is a recipe for a very dark and relevant storyline.
And this episode kinda drops it?.. Turns out, he actually is no simple teacher, but formerly a leading scientist (yeah, it was alluded to in "Pilot", but still); and his scientist friend who made bank on their mutual research is ready to offer him a job back in the field, and/or pay for his entire treatment!!! And then he refuses and goes back to cooking meth, as you do!!!
Were the authors told to make the series less relatable to the common man, less scathing to the American society and healthcare system?
The episode is full of people acting dumb, forced comedy, nonsense, murder of what was a strong and captivating plot - and then there is a heart-rending, emotional performance squeezed in there somewhere, and a dialogue about the hard choice between enduring suffering to cling to life or letting go on your own terms - strong stuff, but doesn't save the rest of it.
In the pilot episode we are presented with a very dark and compelling premise: an American teacher lives in poverty with his family: a pregnant wife and a disabled son. He is disrespected everywhere: in the classroom, at his second job at a carwash and among his friends and relatives (even if they put up a certain front). To make matters worse, he finds out he has lung cancer, and - as happens in the US - his insurance won't cover any treatment. To provide for his family, he turns to an easy income - cooking drugs. This is a recipe for a very dark and relevant storyline.
And this episode kinda drops it?.. Turns out, he actually is no simple teacher, but formerly a leading scientist (yeah, it was alluded to in "Pilot", but still); and his scientist friend who made bank on their mutual research is ready to offer him a job back in the field, and/or pay for his entire treatment!!! And then he refuses and goes back to cooking meth, as you do!!!
Were the authors told to make the series less relatable to the common man, less scathing to the American society and healthcare system?
The episode is full of people acting dumb, forced comedy, nonsense, murder of what was a strong and captivating plot - and then there is a heart-rending, emotional performance squeezed in there somewhere, and a dialogue about the hard choice between enduring suffering to cling to life or letting go on your own terms - strong stuff, but doesn't save the rest of it.
Slow-ish, but Entertaining!
gab-147129 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Welcome back to another review for another solid episode of the fantastic series, Breaking Bad. This fifth episode is once again entertaining and very fun to watch, but we actually get a little historical background. We know Walt as the man who works as a teacher and at a car wash, but we get to delve deeper into his past and what kind of career he had going for him. It was all very insightful. Not only did I like learning about the past, I also like how Jesse is putting the drugs behind him and attempting to find a job. Is he successful? No, not really. But at least he tried. The episode features several fine comedic moments. Two scenes that stand out are 1. When Jesse is interviewing for a job, his buddy Badger runs across the street wearing an overlarge chicken suit. Damn funny it what is. 2. When Walt is at a dinner party at an old friend's place, he and some people are talking about their careers. When Walt talks about moving into education, his peers ask about what college he teaches at. Humiliation at its finest. These are the two scenes that stick out in the many classic scenes there are.
In this episode, Jesse is trying to go down the right path and find himself a real job. But he realizes he may not have the right qualifications for many jobs, so he recruits Badger to continue making meth. But their batches don't come nearly as good as the ones he made with Walt. Walt is invited to a dinner party with his rich old friends Gretchen and Elliott Schwartz hosting. It is later learned that Walt and Elliott started a company together focusing on science. Elliott offered to pay for the cancer treatment, but a humiliated Walt declines. Finally, Walter Jr. is caught trying to buy beer underage from an undercover cop. Skylar had enough and she stages a family intervention, where Hank finally learns that it was Walter who was the one trying to buy the marijuana.
Overall, this was a somewhat slow episode but it was a very entertaining one. There is a heavy momentum forward plot-wise and I'm looking forward to see what happens next. I loved that we got clues on the past of Walter's, and that lends credence to the story. The acting continues to be phenomenal, especially from Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul. However, shoutouts must go out to Adam Godley and Jessica Hecht in their guest roles as the Schwartz family. They did a solid job. Another fine episode, and you all should eagerly anticipate what happens next.
My Grade: A-
In this episode, Jesse is trying to go down the right path and find himself a real job. But he realizes he may not have the right qualifications for many jobs, so he recruits Badger to continue making meth. But their batches don't come nearly as good as the ones he made with Walt. Walt is invited to a dinner party with his rich old friends Gretchen and Elliott Schwartz hosting. It is later learned that Walt and Elliott started a company together focusing on science. Elliott offered to pay for the cancer treatment, but a humiliated Walt declines. Finally, Walter Jr. is caught trying to buy beer underage from an undercover cop. Skylar had enough and she stages a family intervention, where Hank finally learns that it was Walter who was the one trying to buy the marijuana.
Overall, this was a somewhat slow episode but it was a very entertaining one. There is a heavy momentum forward plot-wise and I'm looking forward to see what happens next. I loved that we got clues on the past of Walter's, and that lends credence to the story. The acting continues to be phenomenal, especially from Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul. However, shoutouts must go out to Adam Godley and Jessica Hecht in their guest roles as the Schwartz family. They did a solid job. Another fine episode, and you all should eagerly anticipate what happens next.
My Grade: A-
Just Eat A Bullet Walt- You Are A Child
nebohr30 November 2021
Jesse tries and fails to find honest employment. He meets an old acquaintance who happens to have a line on a crucial ingredient for meth and so starts to fall back into his old ways.
Walt doesn't even try. At a birthday party for an old, very successful friend he is offered both a position and healthcare. He turns down the offer. And is angry with Skyler for talking about his health.
Walt doesn't even try. At a birthday party for an old, very successful friend he is offered both a position and healthcare. He turns down the offer. And is angry with Skyler for talking about his health.
Best acted episode so far.
akashdefonsekaman31 August 2021
Walt has a decision to make, but is his pride getting in the way of sense?
RicinBeans9412 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
"Skyler, you've read the statistics. These doctors talking about surviving, one year, two years, like it's the only thing that matters. But what good is it to survive if I'm too sick to work, to enjoy a meal, to make love? For what time I have left, I want to live in my own house, I want to sleep in my own bed. I don't want to choke down 30 or 40 pills every single day, and lose my hair and lie around, too tired to get up and so nauseated that I can't even move my head. You cleaning up after me. Me... Some dead man, some artificially alive, just marking time... No... And that's how you would remember me. That's the worst part. So that is my thought process, Skyler. I'm sorry, I just... I choose not to do it."
'Gray Matter' is a great episode for a number of reasons. Firstly, we are introduced to a number of new characters, namely Jesse's friend Badger (Matt L. Jones) and Elliott Schwartz (Adam Godley), co-founder (along with Walt) of Gray Matter Technologies. His wife, Gretchen, was previously seen in the flashback in '...And the Bag's in the River'. We also get the 'talking pillow' scene, which is a definite highlight and perhaps the most emotional scene in the show so far.
The episode begins with Jesse at a job interview talking about his 'sales' experience, but it soon becomes clear that the job opportunity isn't what he thought it was. He then strives to cook meth of Walt's quality here and Badger is in disbelief as he repeatedly throws away batches because they aren't quite at Walt's level. The closest we get to any action in this episode is the scuffle between Badger and Jesse that almost turns nasty.
The main stories in this episode follow Walt. First of all, he and Skyler arrive at the Schwartz' party and it's a real realisation for him that this is what he could have had, as we learn about how he was a co- founder of Elliott's extremely successful company. Both Elliott and Gretchen come across as likable people, although there are hints that everyone didn't always get along and we are left to wonder why Walt left the company. I can only assume, at this point, that it had something to do with Walt's past relationship with Gretchen, but that's speculation. Walt seems genuinely excited when Elliott talks about them working together again, only for his heart to sink when he realises that Skyler has filled him in about the cancer and it may be nothing more than an act of sympathy.
The real highlight of this episode, as I mentioned above, is the intervention scene with the talking pillow. It's another moment where the White/Schrader family feels truly believable and each of the five characters shine. Skyler is obviously out to persuade Walt to get treatment for the cancer, while Walt is opposed to the idea. Hank becomes increasingly likable as he again shows how much he really cares about Walt, despite his analogies being lost on everyone. Walter Jr. is on his mother's side, but Marie (who really comes into her own as a character here) surprises everyone when she says it should be Walt's decision, something which Hank then agrees with. This leads to an argument before Walt brings it to a halt and grabs the pillow himself. He then delivers the speech I quoted at the top of the review and it's an emotional moment. It seems his mind is made up, but then he thinks on it a little more and decides to take the treatment. The episode ends with Walt turning up at Jesse's house and asking him if he wants to cook, so we can assume that who they sell to next will be a mystery solved in the next episode.
Something that really resonates here is Walt's pride. He's too proud to take the treatment for his lung cancer at first, then when he does, he refuses to allow Gretchen and Elliott to pay for it, despite their obvious wealth. He even tells Gretchen on the phone that the insurance covers it, which would seem to suggest he plans to pay for it himself with drug money. Like Hank says, a man should have his pride, but is Walt's already getting the better of him?
This episode is sad in parts, but it still has its fair share of funny moments, such as Marie's "Excuse me?" and Hank's disbelief when Skyler reveals it was Walt smoking pot, not Walter Jr., and Jesse's brilliant line - "It's just basic chemistry, yo!". Walter Jr. also has some great lines, with "You're a pussy!" and "Um... No it's not?" (when the cop says what he's asking is illegal) being my particular favourites.
'Gray Matter' is an important episode and it manages to entertain and surprise, while still intriguing us as to where we're headed.
9.0/10
'Gray Matter' is a great episode for a number of reasons. Firstly, we are introduced to a number of new characters, namely Jesse's friend Badger (Matt L. Jones) and Elliott Schwartz (Adam Godley), co-founder (along with Walt) of Gray Matter Technologies. His wife, Gretchen, was previously seen in the flashback in '...And the Bag's in the River'. We also get the 'talking pillow' scene, which is a definite highlight and perhaps the most emotional scene in the show so far.
The episode begins with Jesse at a job interview talking about his 'sales' experience, but it soon becomes clear that the job opportunity isn't what he thought it was. He then strives to cook meth of Walt's quality here and Badger is in disbelief as he repeatedly throws away batches because they aren't quite at Walt's level. The closest we get to any action in this episode is the scuffle between Badger and Jesse that almost turns nasty.
The main stories in this episode follow Walt. First of all, he and Skyler arrive at the Schwartz' party and it's a real realisation for him that this is what he could have had, as we learn about how he was a co- founder of Elliott's extremely successful company. Both Elliott and Gretchen come across as likable people, although there are hints that everyone didn't always get along and we are left to wonder why Walt left the company. I can only assume, at this point, that it had something to do with Walt's past relationship with Gretchen, but that's speculation. Walt seems genuinely excited when Elliott talks about them working together again, only for his heart to sink when he realises that Skyler has filled him in about the cancer and it may be nothing more than an act of sympathy.
The real highlight of this episode, as I mentioned above, is the intervention scene with the talking pillow. It's another moment where the White/Schrader family feels truly believable and each of the five characters shine. Skyler is obviously out to persuade Walt to get treatment for the cancer, while Walt is opposed to the idea. Hank becomes increasingly likable as he again shows how much he really cares about Walt, despite his analogies being lost on everyone. Walter Jr. is on his mother's side, but Marie (who really comes into her own as a character here) surprises everyone when she says it should be Walt's decision, something which Hank then agrees with. This leads to an argument before Walt brings it to a halt and grabs the pillow himself. He then delivers the speech I quoted at the top of the review and it's an emotional moment. It seems his mind is made up, but then he thinks on it a little more and decides to take the treatment. The episode ends with Walt turning up at Jesse's house and asking him if he wants to cook, so we can assume that who they sell to next will be a mystery solved in the next episode.
Something that really resonates here is Walt's pride. He's too proud to take the treatment for his lung cancer at first, then when he does, he refuses to allow Gretchen and Elliott to pay for it, despite their obvious wealth. He even tells Gretchen on the phone that the insurance covers it, which would seem to suggest he plans to pay for it himself with drug money. Like Hank says, a man should have his pride, but is Walt's already getting the better of him?
This episode is sad in parts, but it still has its fair share of funny moments, such as Marie's "Excuse me?" and Hank's disbelief when Skyler reveals it was Walt smoking pot, not Walter Jr., and Jesse's brilliant line - "It's just basic chemistry, yo!". Walter Jr. also has some great lines, with "You're a pussy!" and "Um... No it's not?" (when the cop says what he's asking is illegal) being my particular favourites.
'Gray Matter' is an important episode and it manages to entertain and surprise, while still intriguing us as to where we're headed.
9.0/10
Slow, but good.
connorae-0870214 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
"Gray Matter" is the 5th episode of Breaking Bad Season 1 and it doesn't disappoint. Again, it is a slower episode but yet again that doesn't mean it isn't bad. I don't think this episode is nearly as good as the rest so far, especially "Pilot" Season 1 Episode 1, but it is still a good episode. The parts of the episode with Jesse and the newly introduced character "Badger" are funny and the best scenes in my opinion. We are introduced to quite a few characters in this episode, them being "Gretchen and Elliott Schwartz", these two characters are people who used to work with Walter in a company called "Gray Matter" and they offer to pay for Walter's cancer treatment, but Walter says no. In this episode, Walt changes and he is a very different person in this episode compared to the rest and I really love the writing of this show so far. The acting is great yet again and this is a funnier episode in bits. Another good episode from AMC's "Breaking Bad"
A top-notch episode.
Hey_Sweden5 January 2023
Walter and Skyler attend a party thrown by Elliott Schwartz (Adam Godley), an old friend of Walters' who now runs a prosperous technology company. Upon learning of Walters' cancer, Elliott immediately offers to pay for his treatment, but Walter is resistant to the idea; he'd rather the cancer had remained private family business. Walter Jr. Begins to act out, asking a stranger to buy liquor for him, only to get righteously busted by an off-duty cop, and picked up by Hank. Concerned over her husbands' incredible stubbornness, Skyler suggests an intervention where she, Hank, Marie, and Walter Jr. Can make their opinions heard.
Bryan Cranston does some of his finest acting to date in a major monologue where he tries to explain why he resists the idea of treatment. This stuns Skyler into silence.
Meanwhile, Jesse has also tried to put the past behind him. At the beginning of 'Gray Matter', he tries to apply for a suit-and-tie, nine to five type of job, but he realizes there's only so much he can hope for with his limited education and experience. After meeting an old friend of *his* (Matt Jones), he attempts to once again cook crystal meth, but after having worked with Walter, he won't accept less than perfection, and throws out a couple of batches.
The entire main cast is wonderful here, as they completely draw you into their story and predicaments. There is room for some humor, as Hank tries to use a baseball analogy to assess Walters' situation.
Walter makes some critical decisions here (especially the one he makes as the episode draws to a close) that will affect the premise from this point on.
10 out of 10.
Bryan Cranston does some of his finest acting to date in a major monologue where he tries to explain why he resists the idea of treatment. This stuns Skyler into silence.
Meanwhile, Jesse has also tried to put the past behind him. At the beginning of 'Gray Matter', he tries to apply for a suit-and-tie, nine to five type of job, but he realizes there's only so much he can hope for with his limited education and experience. After meeting an old friend of *his* (Matt Jones), he attempts to once again cook crystal meth, but after having worked with Walter, he won't accept less than perfection, and throws out a couple of batches.
The entire main cast is wonderful here, as they completely draw you into their story and predicaments. There is room for some humor, as Hank tries to use a baseball analogy to assess Walters' situation.
Walter makes some critical decisions here (especially the one he makes as the episode draws to a close) that will affect the premise from this point on.
10 out of 10.
Dry, but a needed episode
andrewkempf6 April 2017
Warning: Spoilers
This episode was needed for this show and it's progression. It was a tad boring with all the dialogue, but it was indeed needed to progress the plot lines. It was nice to have the show end with Jesse and Walter reuniting. With this short first season winding up, I anticipate some big plot twists, and events coming up in the future episodes. Due to the lack of action I'm giving it a 7, but this was still a solid episode.
Family meeting!
Trey_Trebuchet19 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The family intervention in the last half brought this up from an 8 to a 9. What a heartbreaking scene. All of the performances were great, and the questions asked and answers received aren't easy ones, but it's hard not to see where every single one of them is coming from. It feels real. It was just so well acted and written.
Meanwhile, Jesse's experimenting with Badger was hilarious, yes? It was like watching Walt dealing with Jesse earlier on, but now it's Jesse dealing with another delinquent. The way things ended for that plot was also quite funny.
It ends about how you think it will. I'm. It sure I'd say I'm addicted to this show (yet), but I am definitely invested and curious to see how this season ends! So far, it's all been quite good.
Meanwhile, Jesse's experimenting with Badger was hilarious, yes? It was like watching Walt dealing with Jesse earlier on, but now it's Jesse dealing with another delinquent. The way things ended for that plot was also quite funny.
It ends about how you think it will. I'm. It sure I'd say I'm addicted to this show (yet), but I am definitely invested and curious to see how this season ends! So far, it's all been quite good.
Gray Matter
aharvardharrison19 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
A very good episode! The family intervention is incredibly well acted by everyone but I'm especially glad Anna Gunn finally got to show off her acting chops! The story really starts to get going here in my opinion, Elliot and Gretchen are introduced as characters (besides the flashback with Gretchen) in episode 3. We start seeing more of Jesse etc. Yeah just great episode all around!
"I've got the talking pillow now!"
paullwetzel17 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I love this episode! Especially considered within the context of the entire show, I feel that it is one of the best!
Walt and Skyler are invited to Elliott's birthday party, Walt's former business partner; The two founded the now multi-million dollar company "Grey Matter Technologies" together with Walt's ex-girlfriend and now Elliott's wife, Gretchen.
Walt's former partners keep offering him to pay for his treatment but Walter declines their offers.
The audience is already given the sense that something didn't go exactly right within their relationship, but much is left for interpretation as we notice Walt's slight passive aggressiveness during conversation.
This episode contains probably one of my top 5 scenes from the entire show, which is the Talking Pillow scene. It's rare that Walt is completely upright and honest with his family throughout the show (I think this might even be the only time we see it), but the one time he does, it is utterly devastating for everybody at the table. Everyone wants Walt to stay alive and to get healthy...but he denies their desire and what should be in his best interest for very understandable reasons.
The scene also encapsulates the essence of the show:"What good is it to just survive, if I am to sick to work...to enjoy a meal...to make love?", basically stating "What good is it to just survive, if I don't feel truly alive?" This is the statement that Walt lives by for the rest of the show; He stays in the meth business and undergoes all of his criminal activities because they empower him.
Furthermore, it's a great parallel to the scene in which Walt and Skyler meet up with the Schraders in season 5 - while here everyone is incredibly concerned for Walter out of genuine love, the tables will have turned quite a bit at that point.
A very powerful episode overall with a bunch of great subtext and foreshadowing!
Walt and Skyler are invited to Elliott's birthday party, Walt's former business partner; The two founded the now multi-million dollar company "Grey Matter Technologies" together with Walt's ex-girlfriend and now Elliott's wife, Gretchen.
Walt's former partners keep offering him to pay for his treatment but Walter declines their offers.
The audience is already given the sense that something didn't go exactly right within their relationship, but much is left for interpretation as we notice Walt's slight passive aggressiveness during conversation.
This episode contains probably one of my top 5 scenes from the entire show, which is the Talking Pillow scene. It's rare that Walt is completely upright and honest with his family throughout the show (I think this might even be the only time we see it), but the one time he does, it is utterly devastating for everybody at the table. Everyone wants Walt to stay alive and to get healthy...but he denies their desire and what should be in his best interest for very understandable reasons.
The scene also encapsulates the essence of the show:"What good is it to just survive, if I am to sick to work...to enjoy a meal...to make love?", basically stating "What good is it to just survive, if I don't feel truly alive?" This is the statement that Walt lives by for the rest of the show; He stays in the meth business and undergoes all of his criminal activities because they empower him.
Furthermore, it's a great parallel to the scene in which Walt and Skyler meet up with the Schraders in season 5 - while here everyone is incredibly concerned for Walter out of genuine love, the tables will have turned quite a bit at that point.
A very powerful episode overall with a bunch of great subtext and foreshadowing!
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