[rating=7.00] “Fifi”
After two seasons of marveling at the triviality surrounding Better Call Saul and its ability to amp up a mundane world by doing absolutely nothing, it finally makes sense. Similar to its predecessor, Saul is constantly on the precipice of mild to extreme controversy. Unlike Breaking Bad, Saul is able to skillfully toe that line as a means to keep order in the universe. Yes, there’s blood, sweat, and tears literally streaming out of the characters as they work to better their worlds for the enjoyment of the people, however those moments are slim and precious, adding to the glorious monotony without a ripple in the pond.
In regards to the seamless grace in the Saul universe it’s important to understand the weight of our knowledge as an audience. This goes for Jimmy (and Mike’s) past, present, immediate, and far off future. We know where they’ll end up in the long run, and we know why. The interest isn’t in the beginning or end of that journey, but rather the mistakes and nuances that go into it. This goes for all characters living in this universe. Take for example the deliciously sumptuous tracking shot that opened up this week’s episode. There was no need for the bells and whistles, and yet it left us an audience dripping in satisfied awe. We know this is what’s happening beneath the belly of our precious lawyer-centric dark comedy (drama?), it’s what’s happening on the borders every day. And yet, it was exceedingly interesting, quietly guiding us to the pinnacle of its point where we later see the searched ice-cream truck converging on Mike’s stakeout. It all matters, every single second we’re presented with. That’s rare for entertainment, especially in this world of single servings.
Like last week, this week’s episode was lacking (save for that opening shot) but it’s ok. Much of Saul is build up to tiny victories for the characters and audience alike. In this case we’re left with the continued demise of Jimmy and Chuck’s relationship, along with Mike’s continued interest in keeping Tio in his sights. The possible circumstances that send Tio to his chair are currently wrapped around Mike, and the satisfaction that comes from that possibility is positively decadent. Though it still feels dangerous to rely on the BB drop-ins and crossovers, one can’t help but giggle like school girl at the feasible actions that are likely to occur leading to the Saul finale. As for Kim, her decision to branch out on her own with Jimmy as a center for shared resources feels like a trap. Much of Kim’s affection carries these strings, and while it was easy to sympathize with her in earlier episodes, now it’s getting the point where her whiny antics are hurting those around her. Just like Jimmy she is ridiculously self-destructive, and now the two of them will carry on together in this forced happenstance.
Chuck is an asshole. Yes, he needs to look out for his company. Yes, he needs to look out for his best interests. But, holy hell is he riding high on the tears and disappointment of his younger brother. At this point one has to wonder if Jimmy slept with his wife or murdered his dog. There has to be a hidden secret we haven’t gotten yet because Chuck’s vendetta grows stronger each waking hour. Taking away Kim’s potential big fish is essentially burying her practice before it can begin; where does Chuck’s moral line lay? So far, he hasn’t drawn one. In many regards he’s just as bad (if not worse) than Slippin’ Jimmy. At least Jimmy recognizes that he’s a slippery conman.
With two episodes left in the season there’s only so far we’ll get. However, just as season one’s finale taught us, we only need an inch to see a mile with Better Call Saul. Too much action could lead to fatigue with this series, primarily because without the build-up and story logging there is nothing. It’s been deemed a “slow burn” this whole time for a reason; watching the wick saunter rather than rush is endlessly terrifying and exhilarating. In many regards it will be likely be more exciting than the big finale itself, i.e., the moment we’re finally presented with Saul Goodman.
