This episode takes a break from the drug antics to focus more on the family. The crux of the episode centers around Walt's family learning the truth about his condition. It's actually rather heartwarming as they all rally around him and try to come up with ways to deal with his situation.
I still have no problem with Skyler. Actually, I'd mark this as her best episode. You're able to empathize with her to a much greater degree this time around as she is distraught by the devastating news. She also remains optimistic, reminding Walt that things aren't as bad as they first sounded and telling him that they will figure out a way to deal with the financial obligations.
If any character is coming off as unsympathetic, it's Walt's son. This episode seemed to be doing a good job of giving the viewer something to connect to, but then he throws it all away with his last line. I should feel sorry for him, but I don't.
Honestly, when I feel more sympathy for the two dimensional corporate douche character, you have a problem. While I wouldn't call him a likable character, I do feel like Walt's reaction was a bit of disproportionate retribution. Maybe a few more run ins would have helped in that regard, I don't know. It does reinforce that Walt doesn't put up with any guff, but this seemed a bit of a stretch. Being a little crude and taking a parking spot doesn't warrant destroying a car, maybe that's just me.
Speaking of crude, I still enjoy the hell out of Dean Norris' Hank. He makes lewd jokes, but he seems like a fun guy to be around. He also shows himself to be rather loyal, telling Walt that he'll make sure the family is taken care of should the worst happen. At one point, Skyler suggests borrowing the money from him and while Walt shuns the idea, I have no doubt that he'd gladly do it if asked.
Last episode, I wondered how Walt was going to make it. This episode gives us some explanation. While things aren't ideal, his condition is treatable and the treatments wouldn't even necessarily be all that aggressive (though the effects vary from patient to patient.)
One surprising highlight was the glimpse into Pinkman's home life. Just as Walt had, Jesse retreats to his parents' house. It turns out that they are fairly suburban and Jesse's younger brother is something of a child prodigy. It's a stark contrast with Jesse's persona and makes for some decent tension. The parents manage to walk that fine balance between wanting to welcome their son home and being frustrated with his shenanigans.
There may not have been much in the way of drug schemes, but this was a solid breather episode. It allowed the characters to shine a bit more and gave us a better look at how they operate. I think the reality check was actually rather beneficial for both the main characters as well as the viewers.
This was another strong entry. Odd as it may sound, we're halfway through the season. Sure, it's only been a few episodes, but the show has done a great job of hitting the ground running.
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