The title of highest rated Breaking Bad episode unequivocally belongs to “Ozymandias,” the third-to-last episode of the series. This episode, directed by Rian Johnson and written by Moira Walley-Beckett, stands as a masterclass in television drama, earning widespread critical acclaim and achieving near-perfect ratings across various platforms.
The Unfolding Tragedy: Why “Ozymandias” Reigns Supreme
“Ozymandias” is named after Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem, a sonnet about the ephemeral nature of power and the inevitable fall of empires. This title foreshadows the episode’s central theme: the utter and devastating collapse of Walter White’s criminal enterprise and, more importantly, his family. The episode picks up immediately after the shootout with Jack Welker’s gang, culminating in the death of Hank Schrader and the theft of Walt’s hard-earned money. From this shocking opening, “Ozymandias” relentlessly delivers emotional blows, forcing viewers to confront the consequences of Walt’s choices.
The episode showcases Bryan Cranston’s (Walter White) and Anna Gunn’s (Skyler White) most powerful performances. Their on-screen chemistry reaches its apex as their relationship implodes, a raw and painful depiction of the collateral damage wrought by Walt’s ambition. The phone call scene, where Walt unleashes a torrent of hateful words at Skyler, is particularly harrowing. While seemingly cruel, the scene is later revealed as a calculated effort to distance Skyler from his crimes and protect her from future prosecution.
Furthermore, “Ozymandias” features Aaron Paul’s (Jesse Pinkman) captivity and torment at the hands of Jack Welker’s crew. The scene where Jesse is forced to continue cooking meth, knowing that Andrea has been murdered, is gut-wrenching and underscores the depth of Walt’s moral decay. Ultimately, “Ozymandias” is a culmination of all the choices Walt made throughout the series, resulting in a devastating and unforgettable tragedy. The raw emotion, the breathtaking performances, and the unflinching depiction of consequences cemented its place as the highest-rated episode of Breaking Bad and one of the greatest television episodes of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Breaking Bad’s Highest Rated Episode
Here are some of the most common questions people ask about “Ozymandias” and its significance within the Breaking Bad universe:
What specific ratings did “Ozymandias” achieve?
“Ozymandias” consistently receives near-perfect scores across major rating platforms. On IMDb, it boasts a remarkable 9.9 out of 10, based on tens of thousands of reviews. Similarly, on Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 100% approval rating from critics and an impressive average audience score. These ratings solidify its status as the series’ critical darling and the episode fans overwhelmingly consider the best.
What makes “Ozymandias” more impactful than other highly-rated episodes like “Felina” or “Face Off”?
While “Felina” (the series finale) provides closure and “Face Off” delivers a spectacular confrontation, “Ozymandias” offers a more profound emotional impact. It dismantles the carefully constructed facade of Walter White’s power, stripping him bare and exposing the devastating consequences of his actions. “Felina” provides resolution, while “Ozymandias” delivers raw, unfiltered tragedy, making it a more unforgettable experience for many viewers. “Face Off” is more action-oriented; “Ozymandias” is character-driven.
Who directed and wrote “Ozymandias”?
The episode was directed by Rian Johnson, known for his work on Looper, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Knives Out. The script was penned by Moira Walley-Beckett, a long-time Breaking Bad writer who also wrote the acclaimed episode “Fly.”
How does the poem “Ozymandias” relate to the episode’s themes?
As mentioned earlier, Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem “Ozymandias” speaks to the transience of power and the inevitable decay of empires. In the episode, Walt’s empire crumbles before his eyes. He loses his money, his family, and his reputation, reduced to a broken and defeated man. The poem serves as a metaphor for Walt’s journey, highlighting the futility of his ambition and the ultimate emptiness of his achievements.
What are some of the most memorable scenes in “Ozymandias”?
Several scenes stand out as particularly impactful:
- Hank’s death: The shocking and sudden demise of Hank Schrader is a turning point in the series, marking the true point of no return for Walt.
- The phone call between Walt and Skyler: This scene is a masterclass in acting, showcasing the depth of the characters’ fractured relationship.
- Walt kidnapping Holly: This desperate act highlights the extent of Walt’s desperation and his willingness to sacrifice everything for his own self-preservation.
- Jesse’s torture: The scenes depicting Jesse’s captivity and forced meth production are emotionally devastating, highlighting the cruelty of Jack Welker and his crew.
Why did Walt yell at Skyler on the phone?
Walt yelled at Skyler on the phone, using intentionally cruel language, to create a record that would absolve her of any involvement in his criminal activities. He wanted the authorities to believe that she was a victim of his manipulation and coercion, protecting her from prosecution. It was a twisted act of love, albeit a deeply flawed one.
How did Hank’s death impact the rest of the series?
Hank’s death serves as the catalyst for the final disintegration of Walt’s life. It solidifies Walt’s transformation into a true villain, demonstrating his willingness to sacrifice anyone, even family, to protect himself. It also motivates Marie to despise Walt and solidify her alliance with Skyler against him.
What was the significance of Walt burying his money?
Walt burying his money represents his desperate attempt to salvage something from the ruins of his empire. He believes that the money will secure his family’s future, even though he knows that his actions have irreparably damaged their lives. However, this act ultimately proves futile, as the money is later stolen by Jack Welker’s gang, further emphasizing the ephemerality of his gains.
How does “Ozymandias” contribute to the overall themes of Breaking Bad?
“Ozymandias” reinforces several key themes of Breaking Bad, including the corrupting influence of power, the consequences of choices, and the destruction of family. The episode demonstrates how Walt’s ambition and ego ultimately lead to his downfall, destroying everything he holds dear.
Is “Ozymandias” considered the best episode of television ever made?
While subjective, “Ozymandias” is frequently ranked among the greatest television episodes of all time by critics and audiences alike. Its high ratings, critical acclaim, and lasting impact on popular culture certainly place it in contention for that title. Many argue its emotional intensity and narrative execution surpass even other iconic episodes from revered shows.
Where can I watch “Ozymandias” online?
“Ozymandias,” along with the entire Breaking Bad series, is readily available for streaming on platforms such as Netflix. It can also be purchased or rented on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.
What should I watch after “Ozymandias” to conclude the Breaking Bad story?
After “Ozymandias”, you should watch the final two episodes of Breaking Bad: “Granite State” and “Felina.” These episodes conclude Walt’s journey and provide closure to the storylines of the other major characters. Additionally, consider watching El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie, which focuses on Jesse Pinkman’s life after the events of the series finale.