Ep 6. Five-O

In Better Call Saul season 1 episode 6, titled Five-O, we delve into the backstory of Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks). The episode starts with Mike getting a call from his daughter-in-law, who tells him that his son Matty is dead. Although we do not know much about Matty, we can tell that he was a cop and that his death has left a profound impact on Mike.

As the episode progresses, we see Mike trying to piece together what happened to his son. He talks to the cops who worked the case and tries to get access to Matty's files. Through a series of flashbacks, we learn more about Matty's life as a cop and the events that led up to his death.

The flashbacks are expertly woven into the present-day narrative, and as we learn more about Matty's story, we also gain insight into the character of Mike. We see how he struggled to connect with his son, who he viewed as naive and idealistic. We also learn about the incident that seemingly led to Matty's death, and the role that a dirty cop named Hoffman (Mark Margolis) played in it.

As Mike continues to investigate, he uncovers a web of corruption within the department. He learns that Hoffman was involved in a drug ring and that Matty had discovered the truth. When Matty tried to do the right thing, he was killed as a warning to others who might consider speaking out.

Five-O is a standout episode of Better Call Saul for many reasons. For one, it's a masterclass in character development. While we already knew and loved Mike from his appearances in Breaking Bad, this episode gives us a deeper understanding of who he is and what drives him.

We also get a rare glimpse into the world of law enforcement in Albuquerque. While Breaking Bad focused on the drug trade, Better Call Saul shows us the other side of the coin - the cops who are supposed to be fighting it. Through Matty's story, we see the toll that corruption and moral ambiguity can take on those who are supposed to uphold the law.

Finally, Five-O is a technical triumph. The episode is expertly directed by Adam Bernstein, who makes excellent use of light and shadow to create a sense of foreboding. The flashbacks are seamlessly integrated into the story, and the pacing is perfect - slow and deliberate, but never boring.

Overall, Five-O is an excellent episode of television. It's a thought-provoking meditation on morality, family, and the weight of one's choices. It's also a gripping crime drama that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. Whether you're a fan of Breaking Bad or just great television in general, this episode is not to be missed.