“The Fly,” Breaking Bad’s tenth episode of season three, is famously divisive. While visually striking and symbolically rich, its slower pace and focus on Walter White’s psychological state often lead viewers to wonder: can it be skipped without missing crucial plot developments? The answer, definitively, is yes, you can skip “The Fly” without losing the core narrative thread of Breaking Bad. However, doing so means missing a significant exploration of Walter White’s character and the deteriorating state of his mental health, an understanding that deeply informs the remaining episodes.
The Case for Skipping: Narrative Necessity vs. Character Development
At its core, Breaking Bad is a story of transformation – Walter White’s descent from chemistry teacher to drug kingpin. Each episode typically contributes to this larger arc, advancing the plot or introducing new challenges. “The Fly,” directed by Rian Johnson, largely suspends the plot, confining Walt and Jesse to the lab as they obsess over a rogue fly. While humorous at times, the episode is primarily an intense character study.
The argument for skipping rests on the observation that the episode doesn’t directly advance the main storylines. Hank’s investigation into Heisenberg is unaffected, as is Walt’s relationship with Skyler. Saul Goodman doesn’t appear, and the episode’s events don’t have immediate repercussions on the drug trade. For viewers primarily interested in the plot’s progression, “The Fly” can feel like a detour.
The Case for Watching: Understanding Walter White’s Descent
Conversely, “The Fly” offers invaluable insight into Walter White’s psyche. The episode highlights his growing anxiety, paranoia, and guilt. His obsession with the fly is a manifestation of his deeper anxieties about contamination – not just of the lab, but also of his own moral self.
The episode allows for quiet, introspective moments where Walt’s vulnerability surfaces. He confesses to Jesse, indirectly, about the regret he feels over not being present for Jane’s death. These glimpses into Walt’s internal turmoil are crucial for understanding the motivations behind his increasingly ruthless actions in later seasons. Skipping “The Fly” sacrifices a layer of character depth that enriches the overall viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that explore the nuances of “The Fly” and its place within the Breaking Bad narrative.
FAQ 1: What is the symbolic significance of the fly?
The fly represents contamination and imperfection. It symbolizes Walt’s inability to control his environment and his fear of things spiraling out of control. The fly is a metaphor for the moral compromises he’s made, the guilt he carries, and the constant threat of discovery. Some interpret it as also representing the uncontrolled variables in his life that threaten to unravel his carefully constructed empire.
FAQ 2: Does “The Fly” offer any hints or foreshadowing about future events?
While not directly foreshadowing specific plot points, “The Fly” hints at Walt’s deteriorating mental state, which foreshadows his increasingly reckless and unpredictable behavior in subsequent seasons. His obsession with cleanliness contrasts sharply with the mess he creates in his personal and professional life.
FAQ 3: Is Jesse Pinkman’s character developed in “The Fly”?
Yes, “The Fly” provides a more nuanced look at Jesse. We see his growing frustration with Walt’s controlling behavior and his contrasting, almost naive, desire to simply cook and make money. His patience with Walt, despite the absurdity of the situation, reveals his loyalty (however misplaced) to his partner.
FAQ 4: Why is “The Fly” considered a “bottle episode”?
“The Fly” is considered a bottle episode because it is shot primarily in one location (the lab) and features a limited number of characters (Walt and Jesse). This approach is often used to save production costs and allows for a greater focus on character interaction and dialogue.
FAQ 5: What is the critical reception of “The Fly”?
Critical reception of “The Fly” is mixed. Some praise it as a powerful character study that showcases the actors’ talents and the director’s visual flair. Others criticize it for its slow pace and lack of plot advancement. Its placement within the series also drew scrutiny, as it followed several high-stakes episodes.
FAQ 6: Does Bryan Cranston have any opinions on “The Fly”?
Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, has spoken positively about “The Fly,” praising its exploration of Walt’s inner turmoil and the opportunity to showcase his acting range in a more contained setting. He has acknowledged, however, understanding why some viewers found it less engaging.
FAQ 7: Would a first-time viewer of Breaking Bad be better off watching or skipping “The Fly”?
For a first-time viewer, it’s recommended to watch “The Fly”. While not essential for understanding the plot, it adds depth to Walt’s character and provides a richer viewing experience overall. It’s best to experience the show in its entirety first before deciding whether to skip it on subsequent viewings.
FAQ 8: Does skipping “The Fly” affect the emotional impact of later scenes involving Walt and Jesse?
Yes, skipping “The Fly” may slightly diminish the emotional impact of later scenes between Walt and Jesse. The episode provides a glimpse into their strained relationship and the underlying tensions that will eventually lead to their separation. Without that insight, some of their later conflicts may feel less nuanced.
FAQ 9: Are there any online resources that provide analysis of “The Fly”?
Yes, numerous websites and forums offer detailed analysis of “The Fly,” exploring its themes, symbolism, and connection to the overall Breaking Bad narrative. Searching for terms like “Breaking Bad The Fly analysis” or “The Fly Breaking Bad symbolism” will yield valuable insights.
FAQ 10: Is there a consensus among Breaking Bad fans regarding “The Fly”?
There is no consensus among Breaking Bad fans regarding “The Fly.” It remains one of the most polarizing episodes of the series, with some fans considering it a masterpiece of character-driven television and others viewing it as a tedious filler episode.
FAQ 11: What other episodes of Breaking Bad are considered “bottle episodes”?
While “The Fly” is the most well-known, other episodes of Breaking Bad that share characteristics of bottle episodes include “4 Days Out” (Season 2) and “Cornered” (Season 4). These episodes also feature a limited number of characters and settings, allowing for a deeper focus on character development and thematic exploration.
FAQ 12: If I skip “The Fly,” should I read a summary or analysis of it afterward?
If you choose to skip “The Fly,” reading a summary or analysis afterward is a good idea. This will allow you to understand the key themes and character insights that the episode offers, even if you choose not to experience it firsthand. This can help bridge any potential gaps in your understanding of Walt’s character arc.
Conclusion: A Matter of Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to skip “The Fly” is a matter of personal preference. If you’re primarily interested in plot progression and action, skipping it won’t significantly detract from your understanding of the main storyline. However, if you value character development and a deeper exploration of Walter White’s psychological descent, “The Fly” offers a valuable and rewarding viewing experience. Consider your own priorities and choose accordingly. The brilliance of Breaking Bad lies in its intricate storytelling, and even seemingly “skippable” episodes like “The Fly” contribute to the show’s overall impact and enduring legacy.