Better Call Saul Season 6: The Death of Innocence

[@Jo-bs2uu]

Howard's death is so effective because it really triggers this sense of fairness most people have about the universe. Intellectually, we know life isn't fair and misfortune can strike at any time but we crave fairness and try to create it in law, society and especially stories. Howard's death is the most extreme violation of this. He's not in the game, he's not in the wrong, he just ended up in the wrong spot. It sucks and it makes the show hit so hard. love BCS

[@ButtersCCookie]

Triggers? Fairness? Karma or Revenge? Must be exhausting. It's a television "program" and it's doing a great job.

[@Skarletkombat]

@@ButtersCCookie we get it, you lack depth 🙄

[@GamerOrmer]

@@ButtersCCookie A television program that showcases something that could happen to anyone, even you at any moment. That's what makes it so thought provoking.

[@vampiresquid]

Life is many things. One thing it is not, is fair.

[@vampiresquid]

@@ButtersCCookie I'm sure being exposed to thinking any more complicated than what's in Top Gun 2 is "exhausting" for you. This is because you are an idiot.

[@Gojo-jg2zs]

On a side note: Howard easily was the best dressed character in the entire series lol

[@Arcessitor]

Not according to Judge Papadomian.

[@soccerstuff8071]

Jimmy's suits would disagree!

[@Viewtful]

hamlindigo

[@restinpeace9928]

Lalo’s drip can not be slept on

[@woahblackbettybamalam]

His overly long trousers would disagree. Dude needed a tailor 10:12 look at that

[@easschung9442]

This was the saddest episode in the Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul universe for me. Howard never deserved any of this, I've been sad ever since the episode.

[@contemptman3646]

@Steve True, Andrea was horrifying.

[@hobonolen]

I’ve been sad since gale died

[@hobonolen]

And Ziegler 🥺

[@misterx4757]

I haven't seen it but heard about it. I agree it was sad. Howard didn't do anything to deserve his treatment. Jimmy and Kim were wrong for their shenanigans. Lalo..... well, is Lalo. Howard one of my favorite characters.😢

[@I_Eated_The_Soap]

the worst part of Howard and Andreas death is that they were killed not by the killer, but by a mistake. jesse had to watch Andrea, his girlfriend, get murdered because he tried to escape. and Jimmy had to watch Howard die because Jimmy bullied him and Howard happened to confront him at the wrong time

[@mikelippenkrans5297]

Another way I feel this death represented a loss of innocence is that Jimmy and Kim going after Howard had a certain childishness to it. For most of the time they'd known him, Howard had been a powerful authority figure, a man who was endlessly professional and always in control. In an immature way, they thought that screwing with him and damaging his reputation wouldn't actually be a big deal because a guy like him could surely take it, right? It makes he think of how kids sometimes don't realise adults such as their parents or teachers can be hurt by things they do. They both seem so genuinely surprised to see how broken he is when he comes to confront them after the sandpiper plan.

[@markmarderosian9657]

Well put! They really are both highly immature and lacking self-awareness as to how their actions could cause events to spiral out of control.

[@rejectionisprotection4448]

​@@yhhkj529 He didn't forget, he went along with it to placate Kim (maybe out of guilt). Huell asks Jimmy why he is doing this to Howard, as he earns "good, legit money" as a lawyer. Jimmy responded with garbled nonsense, which shows that he didn't really have a good reason to do so.

[@goread5544]

Great interpretation

[@musicphilex2124]

This also goes well with last week's episode title, Fun and Games. It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

[@tonybrowneyed8277]

@@rejectionisprotection4448 he never did. he was a deeply flawed, petty man. in my opinion, every authority figure in his way would look like chuck to him.

[@markrogers4050]

I think the reason why many people (including myself to some extent) compare Howard's death to Hanks death is what it means symbolically for the characters and the shows. Both deaths were due to the actions of the protagonists and both deaths shredded the very thin veneer the protagonists were operating under. Hank's deaths was a result of Walt's decision to get into the meth business and it also destroyed Walter's justification that he was doing it for his family. And like this video clearly stated Howard's deaths was due to Jimmy and Kim's actions and his death shattered their delusion that everything would be okay despite engaging in criminal activities. At least that's how I see it.

[@Aleczandxr]

Oh yeah I definitely get that and agree, I was mainly speaking about those comparing the nature of the respective deaths with regards to the character dying than the parallels between them and the protagonists. I’ve seen much more of the former than the latter, which I do agree with as I said.

[@samzorn4656]

Personally, I'm have to agree that Howard's death mirrored Drew Sharpe's in Breaking Bad, for the reasons provided in this video, but it also possessed elements from Hank's death as well, for the reasons stated in the comment above. All in all, it feels like a great combination of elements from both deaths while maintaining its own identity.

[@bigheadrhino]

Also like Hank he was also had his world turned upside down before he died. Howard had his reputation destroyed and Hank had his self confidence and entire identity as a DEA agent destroyed finding out Heisenberg was his brother in law. Even in death, both their reputations are destroyed. Hank will be remembered as either a buffoon or an accomplice.

[@samzorn4656]

@@bigheadrhino While I agree that Howard's reputation will be destroyed, I'll have to disagree with you on Hank's reputation. In one of the trailers for "El Camino", where the DEA is interrogating Skinny Pete, pictures of Hank and Steve Homez were above the door, which, in my opinion, means Hank will be remembered as the man who nearly caught Heisenberg, but was murdered in cold blood by his drug lord brother-in-law (while that's not necessarily the case, that's what the public will think from that day onwards), as well as a respected DEA agent who died in the line of duty.

[@AzraelSoulHunter]

But at least Walt did change at the end of the day because of it. Saul on the other hand... We know how he is in BB and this just makes him look more despicable.

[@comicobsessed9283]

Having finally watched this episode makes me realize that one of the most important things about Howard is that he really, REALLY wants to be liked. He wants to be liked by Chuck so he follows his orders, he wants to be liked by Kim so he helps her in her career, he wants to be liked by his wife and tries to fix their marriage the best he can, hell he wants to be liked by Jimmy despite him having an unjustifed hate towards him. This is very, very sad and it says a lot about Howard and his personality. Saddest part is that despite being an actual good person, none of the people here actually LIKE Howard, probably not even his father liked him since he basically forced Howard to be just like him (and Howard accepted due to guess what? Just for his father to like him).

[@ledgnr197gaming5]

Rich liked him so there's that

[@soccerstuff8071]

Howard's death was legitimately so upsetting and gutting. I hope I'm not alone when I say it's one of the most disturbing fictional deaths I've ever seen. Like you said, he needed to die for the story to signify this loss of innocence and entry into the darkness. But man did it hurt.

[@meleronnef8411]

You're not alone lol just look at these comments. And I'm one of them who agrees.

[@marrodc]

You're definitely not alone. I screamed at my TV once I saw that candle flame move with the breeze that came in alongside Lalo. It truly was an unnecessary death (obviously not it narrative terms) that only occurred because Jimmy (and Kim) acted like his criminal actions couldn't have a consequence.

[@RiseAgainst369]

When Lalo entered the house it became obvious Kim and/or Howard would be doomed. It was tragic but necessary to build Saul the Evil Advocate; if Howard had survived then Saul's involvement with druglord Lalo would have been exposed, ending the prospect of him becoming the top dog lawyer for the underworld.

[@abdultarsha5312]

I have never in my life been so shaken to my core over the death of a fictional character, but Howard's death, I was genuinely repulsed

[@tonybrowneyed8277]

the irony is that guilty and incent lie buried side by side...

[@santiagotamulis5833]

Howard is an extremely memorable character. Not just because of the superb writing but, because his beverage can spining trick is very handy

[@NixonLuver]

Flicking the side of the can is faster though and more useful when you don't have a table

[@tomadshead6133]

That was chuck's trick! I cannot believe the chicanery!

[@contemptman3646]

Great video. Howard really did end up representing comfort, safety, goodness, and most of all, innocence. And now that he's gone as a result of the "other" world, all the innocence is gone.

[@Aleczandxr]

Much appreciated.

[@yemmohater2796]

"He'll be pushed but will never conded and become crooked or underhanded" Not only does this mirror Jim and Kimmy, but it parallels Mike and his son. Strong thematic cohesion in this show, along with the revenge theme

[@macafromthewired]

jim and kimmy

[@Aleczandxr]

Awesome catch!

[@amberhernandez]

@@macafromthewired Sus and Finger

[@baldrickthedungspreader3107]

The thematic cohesion goes even further when you take into consideration that Jimmy and chucks dad was a decent hardworking uncorrupted individual who was still wronged by a contrastingly sinister world

[@danielcarithers3345]

The fact that Plan and Execution marked the end of the Sandpiper case, which had been going on since the first episode, really highlights to me how this season represents the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.

[@carmosi17]

Not since the first episode tho

[@danielcarithers3345]

@@carmosi17 First season. I haven’t watched the earlier episodes in a while.

[@articeaglezero]

That's exactly what I felt in his death in another perspective, death of innocence, yes. The cruelty is so indescribable that I just lost respect to Jimmy and Kim even with how much I love them as characters. So disturbing how they even concern about Howard in his last minute when they shattered everything he worth living for. Such an amazing stopping point. Howard is an incredible character and his legacy will definetely drive the series to greater lengths. 22 days left

[@yemmohater2796]

They have limits it seems. ruining his life in revenge for ruining Chuck's, yes. Letting him be murdered in front of them in a way they didn't plan or cause, taking away the agency they stole from HMM, that could leave them culpable? No

[@IndigoBellyDance]

Howard was no innocent…. He was born with a silver spoon And his Biggest concern was his own $$/ego & power. He’s a ok guy…. He had his good And his bad as we all do. What I love about Jimmy is he sarcastically lives on the border land between good and bad And he outrightly admits to using that space to make $$ And he was driven there in part by Howard Jimmy could not get ahead so he found where he could get ahead.

[@Ray_D_Tutto]

@@IndigoBellyDance The irony of Howard is he was born to the "right" social class. The kind of person who owes their success to a cosmic fluke, nepotism, being the right gender, race etc. But his lucks runs out as he ends up caught in the middle of the Mcgill brothers and ends up being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

[@laura1031]

@@IndigoBellyDance How are you faulting him for the way he was born? Howard was 100% innocent

[@articeaglezero]

@@IndigoBellyDance exactly above comment + I can argue Howard never really had any ego apart from his firm and his ego to his firm is even wholesome like he just admire his dad and want to pass his legacy, he didn't work because of money. Lastly Jimmy and Kim made fun of Howard when Howard stay away from their lives so he's completely innocent

[@lordcharles9786]

Howard was more like a brother to Jimmy than Chuck ever was

[@pencil6965]

Nah

[@ravenwhiteduck6460]

Bit of a hard sell, but Howard did do his best to make things right

[@moses2998]

It’s kind of sad because most of the anger towards Howard is actually misdirected anger. Jimmy is still angry at Chuck but is taking it out on Howard. In real life, people hold grudges and end hurting not only themselves, but the people the people that don’t deserve to be hurt.

[@spencerfoote6977]

Howard’s death is probably the saddest in both series.

[@cinderluna]

Full props to Patrick Fabian, who played Howard to perfection

[@Aleczandxr]

Absolutely, one of the best performances in the series.

[@dennisnguyen2847]

EVER SINCE HE WAS 9, ALWAYS THE SAME!!!

[@holysecret2]

I don't think I have ever seen anything more evil, cruel and treacherous than Jimmy and Kim's scheme in season 6. It was really hard to watch them tear down and torture Howard

[@faceless_man566]

his death, when I first saw it, shocked me and made me feel legitimately uncomfortable. here we have a man who was going to pick himself up, who made an effort to be good to the people in his life, and lalo takes his life so casually. it really made me feel the nihilism of the show.

[@RiseAgainst369]

I feel you, but this story was always meant to build Saul as the morally corrupt advocate we got to know in BB. It was too early to write Kim away cos she is needed to maintain the soul of Saul for at least a few more episodes yet.

[@krypticunlimited6925]

I dont think the show is nihlistic. Its dark, yes, just like the rest of the franchise, but not nihilistic

[@thewishfulthinker]

Well, the show isn't nihilistic - if it was, it would have framed the twist as something we shouldn't care about. In fact, it showed how the *characters* have become nihilistic.

[@00Clank]

In hindsight I had realized what a massive death flag the morning coffee scene was. But I’m always too engrossed when watching Better Call Saul to think about that kind of analysis in the moment.

[@ThisisDaniel]

You're right. Also worth noting he created a Peace symbol in the coffee, that was poured unceremoniously into a flask - somewhat akin to his death, unceremonious ending.

[@CommanderFearless]

I’ve heard some people complain about Mike’s story (or lack thereof) in recent seasons, which is strange to me. The show is called “Better Call Saul,” not “Better Call Mike”. Mike’s already mostly completed his ark in terms of becoming who he is in Breaking Bad and the criminal part of the show is being guided by Gus and Lalo atm. I get people love Mike, but most shows have side characters who are prominent at certain points and not prominent in others.

[@TD0150]

I feel like we're going to delve back into Mike's story a bit given his unintended role in Howard's death (taking his men off of "low priority" positions and allowing Lalo to reach Saul and Kim). He has a history of being affected by those "not in the game" dying indirectly due to his actions. This is also why I theorize we might see a bit more of how Mike felt during the Drew Sharp situation during Breaking Bad, but that's assuming they have time to fit that in.

[@soccerstuff8071]

Yeah, Mike's story in Better Call Saul was very prominent but I think it ended at the end of Season 4. He fully "broke bad" when he killed Ziegler. Everything since then has been tying things together between the two series, and that's fine. He's still very present and we still had plenty of focus on Jimmy, Kim, Gus, Lalo, Howard (RIP) and Nacho (RIP).

[@EmpressEmylia]

Even though he wasn't the most prominent character in the scenes concerning Nacho's death, I think this was another shaping event for Mike. Not only did his son die because he got caught in the "game" where he didn't belong and didn't want to be, but now he also had to watch Nacho, another young man who got caught in the schemes of older men, die. It was the missing piece to perfectly prepare the character for his relationship with Jesse in BB. Also I think it's possible Mike will play an important role in the second half of the season

[@EmpressEmylia]

@@yhhkj529 Great points. Although we don't know yet with 100% certainty if Nacho succeeded in protecting his father. I think it's not impossible that he will be part of the 2nd half of the season. Maybe to throw Mike into some catch 22 situation or so. I hope not, but...

[@krypticunlimited6925]

Mike's arc was completed in the season 4 finale. Killing Werner was the final nail in the coffin for him

[@AkKuOfHearts]

In a way, Howard and Lalo are mirrored personalities on their respective side. As you mentioned, both are best described by their perseverance. Howard, through all his setbacks orchestrated by Jimmy and Lalo, coming back from the dead to plot his revenge against Gus. They are antagonists to Jimmy (well, Howard is at least a perceived one). Both of them are smart, competent in their field and they stand for their ideals. The difference being: Howard is a symbol of innocence and Lalo is pure evil. But holding true to what we have seen in BB, evil wins over innocence. "Funny", considiring Lalo was the one to kill innocence. Parallels like these are typical for BB and BCS. Nice vid once again.

[@yemmohater2796]

Great interpretation, Howard definitely is an antagonist even if he's not a villain

[@IndigoBellyDance]

Howard is no innocent, he’s ok. He was born w/a silver spoon And his main concern was his $$/power /prestige & ego.

[@Comicbroe405]

@@IndigoBellyDance That's just his personality. Unlike Jimmy & Kim, he never went the route of the bad guy & was more or less a decent guy in the series. He was definitely innocent when he got caught in Saul & Kim's web with Lalo, completely not deserving what happened to him.

[@renerocha6334]

They are very similar. Lalo was born into a family of crime and killing. Had the Salamanca’s been lawyers he may have been Howard’s golfing buddy.

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

@@IndigoBellyDance He may not have been innocent in every single instance of his life, but he was completely innocent in this situation, and that's the point. That, and what he was a symbol of like the video explains.

[@antmonk8537]

"Howard's death is the moment when Saul became Heisenberg" would be how I would sum it up, if I was an idiot. But truly this is where his (and Kim's) selfish actions lead to the death of an 'innocent' for the first time. Howard had never screwed either of them over, he offered nothing but support up until they had utterly destroyed his credibility. Without them pursuing their cruel vendetta, he would never have been in the room with Lalo. There really is no going back for either of them, now. Very eager to see how this ties into Kim's fate - what a show this is.

[@jamesmmcgill]

Heh, you got me.

[@rvkice23]

HEY HEY HEY anyone can become Heisenberg or anyone else, at any moment. Doesn't even have to be BB/BCS

[@DeepfriedBeans4492]

Well not never, he stuck kim in doc review and even after she tried making up for what jimmy did he still ignored he requests to be put on actual jobs, but that's really the only case where he acted unreasonably imo

[@SMBainbridge]

One thing about Howard is that a lot of viewers have worked with someone very similar to Howard: Strict on dress code, very corporate, anal about work practices, etc. Not at all bad person, but not someone you want to have a beer with. There are Howards that are partners at law firms and in upper management positions at large companies. There are even a lot of teachers that act like Howard to their pupils. Most people don’t know a Hank or a Gus or a Lalo, but so many people know a Howard. That makes his death have more of an impact.

[@marinamaged962]

anal about work practices?????????????????????????

[@michaelyu6250]

Patrick Fabian did some of the best work in the franchise with Howard, so good.

[@tmo314]

Another thing so jarring about Howard’s death (especially versus Hank’s): we actually have to watch the gun firing against Howard’s head, then sit through shots of him tumbling over like a rag doll while J/K shout and cry in fear. And unlike Hank, he actually admitted loss, despite having had everything right all along. He was already in shambles, only to stumble into an even worse fate.

[@bascal133]

I was so deeply upset when Howard died that I cried I was very angry too. I think the way you describe it as the death of innocent really describes why his death is so deeply tragic and unfair. The way I thought of it at the time was like killing a mockingbird right from the book.

[@vantom253]

When Howard got shot- I felt a pain I never did before while watching a movie or series. I felt like someone I knew really died for a second

[@pokekiller787x]

Legitimately the saddest death in the entire breaking bad universe.

[@seemonuzumaki723]

Yeah honestly this death is much more like Drew Sharp than Hank or Nacho. He was totally helpless and terrified, no idea what he got himself into.

[@seemonuzumaki723]

@Steve True, Draw Sharp and Andrea are the best comparisons.

[@justmyopinion79]

Holy shit the ending to this video game me chills. The tone in Howard's voice..

[@stephenbollin702]

Watching this after the series finale makes this so nice. They brought his legacy back and redeemed Jimmy giving him that back. Great ending to an amazing story.

[@meleronnef8411]

Love that you included Mike's quote there, it represents essentially this whole fictional universe. And reality too.

[@TheAwesomeAlan]

I’ve been waiting for a video on this topic for a while, from you specifically as I love listening to these. Howard’s death is the most tragic in all of the Breaking Bad universe in my opinion. He is by no means a perfect person, but within the world at large he was a good person trying to always do the right thing at the end of the day. He had no affiliation with the world of criminality like Saul and Kim now were, and he was dragged down through the darkness because of them, ultimately losing his life for legitimately zero reason. It’s heartbreaking, as I have come to love Howard as a character, and I’m still mourning his death.

[@jangofett191]

Rip Howard Hamlin. You truly were an amazing, stand up character who tried his best to better himself and right his wrongs. Namast3 👔

[@deadbars8755]

0:51 love when you cut to Mike when you say "open fingers"

[@josephcooper5225]

Was just about to see if anyone noticed that 😂😂

[@stevenpeeckford5999]

Great editing in this video, especially in both the beginning and the very end. Very emotional and dramatic.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you!

[@emilyconcannon]

Nacho's death made me so so sad, but seeing Howard die broke my bond with Jimmy and Kim

[@grobulgroose1776]

really didnt think i'd end up hating jimmy and kim by the end of this series

[@maxpwer8294]

Howard's fate was probably one of the saddest moments in the BB/BCS universe, what lead up to his fate was also one of the funniest moments in television. Seriously the scene with Howard looking like a coke head made my sides hurt, the dilated pupils, his frantic movements and paranoia was a chef's kiss and after all that the reality kicks in leaving you feeling guilty you even laughed. Honestly, the writing in this show is genius and I can say with confidence that Better Call Saul is as good as Breaking Bad.

[@TheAwesomeAlan]

I felt the exact opposite during the scene. Kim and Jimmy's plan was going too far, and her initial generalization of it being a "career setback" didn't really paint the full picture. They were disgusting in their actions. I felt horrible throughout the entire scene, Howard didn't deserve any of it. I didn't find a second of it funny, especially when Jimmy and Kim were getting off on it. That made it even worse. On top of that, the episode ends with Howard's death in one of the most tragic moments in television history. It felt like a gut punch on top of seeing a generally good person humiliated and ruined.

[@maxpwer8294]

@@TheAwesomeAlan I see what you mean man, I felt everything Kim and Jimmy were doing was too far and unjustifiable but I would be lying if I didn't say that scene was funny. Your comment in my mind shows how good BCS is because of the multiple interpretations, some see that scene as unfunny, others find it hilarious but at the end we're both left sad at the way things turned out.

[@TheAwesomeAlan]

@@maxpwer8294 Oh it absolutely was painted to be a funny scene, and I can see how people would find humor in it. I also appreciate that it's so open to different perspectives, because so many people respond to it in many different ways. BCS really is golden.

[@James_Wisniewski]

I can't believe anyone found that funny. It was painful for me.

[@Rojall02]

@@TheAwesomeAlan Jimmy and Kim (especially Jimmy) always lie or downplay the severity of the situation whenever they pull some elaborate scheme, and they know it. Even after the fact they are never shown to be genuine towards their victims, when Howard confronts them before he's shot dead they of course play dumb and act like they have no idea what he's talking about, grinning and smirking at him and everything. The last episode also finally made me realize this

[@rasmustagu]

I can't believe that stuff like this is still written today. One of the greatest episodes ever in the BB universe.

[@bobbyzamora6389]

Howard is written initially into a certain archetype, but at heart ends up a complete subversion of that archetype. RIP.

[@nitzan3782]

Well said. Hank's death is comparable to Nacho's, Howard's death was the same as Todd shooting down that boy, showcasing how evil he is.

[@tonybrowneyed8277]

and andrea's too. todd is more evil than lalo.

[@alliecohen6238]

Depending on how they stage or cover his death, Jimmy n Kimmy may have ruined Howard's reputation for eternity, and he will never bounce back. He didn't deserve it in any way at all. Thats just so brutal

[@Jeff-tt7wj]

Love your channel. It’s the only place I can get thought provoking Better call Saul commentary and beautiful Xenoblade Chronicles music at the same time.

[@6alcantara]

The saddest thing was that Howard was on a transition to a new life. Eventually divorced and with himself in charge of the firm without Chuck's influence, and his father's for that matter, as we saw back in season 2 when Kim quit HHM.

[@DeeJuusan]

Yet another great video! You made love him and see sides of him I couldn't before, and I'm even tempted to rewatch. Thanks!

[@Aleczandxr]

You’re very welcome, glad to help!

[@NotAGoodUsername360]

The tragedy of Howard is that he saw Jimmy and Kim's potential for good, and tried to save them from Chuck's self-fulfilling prophecy, but ultimately his irrational loyalty to Chuck kept him from pulling Jimmy off the path towards destruction and immorality. It could be argued Howard represents the Law itself- cunning, domineering, and full of authority, but well-intentioned, yet hamstrung by the ones who make the policy... and utterly helpless against those who reject it through force.

[@techjuana]

Very well put. So much perspective in this video. Loved it.

[@Aleczandxr]

Much appreciated, glad you enjoyed.

[@moshinwooden4713]

The music you pick for these videos are awesome

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@moshinwooden4713]

@@Aleczandxr Persona 5 royal and xenoblade soundtracks are the best

[@Y7D]

*Beautifully written and fabulously narrated*

[@Aleczandxr]

Much appreciated!

[@celtictheknight]

Nacho and Howard were amazing. I Felt genuine pain to see them meet their respective fates, even though I knew they wouldn't "survive" either way.

[@sayitdontsprayit9325]

this was honestly one of the best most eloquently put video essays I've ever watched. subbed!

[@Aleczandxr]

So glad you enjoyed!

[@Arthur-nr5ci]

God, I was so shook by this. Needed to watch a bunch of content related to feel part of a community to mourn, lol.

[@VincentJoJo]

If you look closely at how Howard falls after he got shot, he falls exactly the same way Chuck did in the Printing company when Jimmy plotted the Mesa Verde scheme. Very a tragic shot in my opinion. After Chuck ranted about Jimmy at the Printing store he slipped because of his condition and fell on his head. After that his life goes downhill and eventually his death. Howard fell the same way. Kinda tells me it is somewhat intensional...

[@jamesmmcgill]

Howard's death is overall more tragic than Nacho's. Howard never knew who I was dealing with (El Cartel) or who Lalo was. He even wasn't in the game. That blood splatter on the candle from Howard will always traumatize me for the rest of my life.

[@soccerstuff8071]

Yes. At least Nacho was able to end things on his own terms.

[@jamesmmcgill]

@@soccerstuff8071 true

[@P1CKL3_RICK]

who actually brings themselves to larp as fictional characters on the youtube comments i swear those are the most laughable human beings on the planet

[@BichaelStevens]

@@P1CKL3_RICK facts

[@luna-pd4zv]

Sneeze on my face nigga

[@wadeslilson4385]

Xenoblade chronicles music while discussing my favorite show? Crazy good crossovers happening this year, great breakdown! Gonna miss seeing howard, patrick fabian was incredible in this series.

[@caorsi]

Finally a better call Saul episode! Looking for some Chuck analysis! You do amazing work!

[@Aleczandxr]

Glad you enjoyed! Unfortunately I don’t take video requests from comments, but luckily I already did an analysis of Chuck: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYi6lHuLr9urm8k

[@stormrider1049]

I've been waiting eagerly for these analysis vids post-mid season finale. Anything to tide me over through the wait for the likely legendary finale to Saul's backstory...

[@upg5147]

I'm really excited to see how things play out for Kim especially in the set up to what will be Breaking Bad season 1 but I'm REALLY interested in how the flash forward stuff is going to turn out, the stuff that shows us Jimmy after Breaking Bad ended.

[@wrenlinwhitelight3007]

Aleczandxr, I sincerely hope Vince and the writers of BCS watch this video. You did a remarkable job.

[@fallenhero3130]

Howard's evolving role on the show surprised me more than anything else. I like that in Season 1 he's presented as Jimmy's seeming antagonist. Once we learn the truth, he still spends Seasons 2 and 3 being Chuck's colleague and someone for him to talk to. But after Chuck's death, I figured that would be it; Howard would likely be written out of the show in Season 4 as I couldn't think what further role he'd play. In fact, I did spend a lot of time afterward wondering "Why is Howard still even a character on the show at all?" But then Season 6 paid this off beautifully, and made him the most tragic character of the entire saga. Brilliant writing.

[@EPMTUNES]

Your videos on this universe are always a joy, Alec.

[@Aleczandxr]

I’m delighted you think so! :)

[@autreocean1974]

Heartbreaking! I actually almost felt shame for disliking Howard for most of the show. One of the moments that changed my mind was the cappucino scene. Anyway, this show is a masterpiece just like BBd! Shout out to all the actors, all of them amazing! And here in particular to Patrick Fabian! If he happens to read this kind of comments, he was absolutely wonderful!

[@michibry]

I was way too young when br ba was first airing and reaching its finale so i wasnt a part of that whole ride but to be able to catch the releases of every season 6 episode for bcs as it comes out is such a treat, im so glad to be a part of something so special like this

[@stevenpeeckford5999]

You have watched BrBa though, right? (Even if you were too young while it aired)

[@argurdepo3]

Such a great video, thank you so much!

[@masterzombie161]

“I uhh think I’m in the middle of something.”

[@BustinCider8]

"Who are you?" "Me? Nobody."

[@jamesmmcgill]

"Uhh, uh... there's really no need to-" *Headshot*

[@zenithzv]

I missed out on the Breaking Bad hype, only began to watch the show in 2017. I am so glad that i have gotten into Saul and genuinely cant wait any longer to see where the story goes

[@marca8368]

When Howard tells about how he was hungry for the world in his youth, but his father put him in the company and he says with a bit of sorrow something like "I think it happened the way it should", I immediatly reminded of King Bradley from Fullmetal Alchemist. Both these characters were in position of extreme power and works as antagonists, but, in a deeper level, they were just very sad people acting as tools of larger plans that was not chosen by them

[@jasminefoo5970]

Great video! Keep up the good work, I love watching fan content and seeing that people put thought and effort into delivering their insight. I know it must’ve taken a lot of work to edit and write for even a ten minute video. Thank you!

[@Aleczandxr]

My pleasure, I’m happy you enjoyed it!

[@GarroshTV]

I personally also often compare Howards Death with the one of Hank, simply because both of them deserved better and both deaths were turning Points in the Stories. After their Deaths, everything went downhill.

[@LittleSnakeSD]

Better call saul is an masterpiece that happened as a mistake. Glad we got to see it.

[@easschung9442]

Wait it happened as a mistake?

[@BustinCider8]

​@@easschung9442 The original plan for the show was basically a 30 min per episode sitcom kinda style. They scrapped it and decided to make it a drama like BB.

[@blueghost5344]

Very devastating, especially that send-off really hurt the way they throw him away like that really punched me in the gut. I've been on youtube looking up Patrick Fabian interviews and Howard Hamlin tribute videos just to cope. Just gotta remind myself its just acting 😭😭

[@nicole-ls4jb]

I like your analysis, of the "safe place" they could return to, but I also enjoyed your editing, and the use of the black screen to highlight certain lines of dialog.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked that.

[@PHDiaz-vv7yo]

Great video. I think throughout BB/BCS we all empathise with different characters at different times. Yes, even Walter. But Howard resonated the most. Pre pandemic I used to wear an indigo blue suit to work. Lots have changed since. I may bounce back.

[@CelestiaLily]

YEAHHH boi I love hearing that sweet sweet Maruki music when discussing brutally tragic narratives

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you!

[@Tatsu0ni]

"through opened fingers" 0:51 a cut to the kid named finger I SEE WHAT YOU DID THERE

[@usul573]

Such a classic: "I never intended" moment, trying to keep the criminal side of things and the legit side of things separate is impossible in BB/BCS they will collide at some point.

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

He went through so much, and then just got dumped out by the end. Any other major character in the story deserved it more than him.

[@sainsburysdad4929]

Best series of the century

[@lofiwire7917]

Excellent video

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@james8194]

Great video as always. I love the concern Jimmy and Kim show for Howard before he dies. The glimmer of guilt they show when he unloads his marriage and depression issues as well, I think they would already have regretted their actions toward him without the fatality.

[@KanonHara]

Kim doesn't show any guilt whatsoever. Notice how condescending she sounds when she says "no, no,no, you are done". Jimmy, yeah, he has that guilty child look to him like he has whenever he is caught out.

[@meleronnef8411]

@@KanonHara Nah Kim definitely shows guilt in her face when he talks about his marriage falling apart. She will be crushed by this.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed!

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

@@KanonHara Kim definitely shows concern

[@james8194]

@@KanonHara It’s the sideward glance she gives Jimmy which I thought was remorse. They both put a front up that they don’t care though, not wanting to display it to Howard.

[@Wingedmagician]

Flowery style to the words and speaking voice/tone with your videos.

[@Stiv64_]

These music choices man, *Chef's Kiss*

[@kingberry100]

Funny how when Howard asked Lalo who he was, he said “Me? nobody”. When Lalo killed Howard, he killed him like he didn’t matter, like he was a nobody, but Howard always very prominent in the legal world

[@JTread2003]

I never imagined that Howard would get shot in the head by Lalo, I just thought he wasn’t in Breaking Bad because he was just living his life not affected by anything that happened

[@michaelcorcoran8768]

I'm genuinely furious at Kim and Jimmy right now. It was just so cruel.

[@KaaptnIglo]

It would have been so easy to make of Howard a classic corporate vilain - greedy, petty, egocentric. I love the route they took for him of a priviledged but fairly normal guy, who just tries his best to be decent. Like most of us, I believe. The same goes for Cliff and Schweikart (?). Somehow, it feels more realistic. And it helps us focusing on the core of Jimmy's story, i.e. his relationship to Chuck, to Kim etc.

[@blorkpovud1576]

Man the AUDIO at 2:20 is FUCKING TERRIFYING! Even worse than actually watching the scene! That is masterful acting. You can here GENUINE terror like... I just had to keep replaying it. How many takes would have to have done??

[@nont18411]

Howard is fine now because he’s on a trip in Belize.

[@jamesmmcgill]

Haha true LOL

[@nathangursky4628]

I would be glued to a pre-BCS show focusing on Howard and Chuck. Please Vince... you have one more in you!

[@gersonrendon2188]

The way the latest episode ended, the acting, the symbolism, the angles, the colors, I couldn't believe it. It was shot in a surreal manner and despite the relatively "tame" violence (compared to the deaths in breaking bad at least), it still feels incredibly crude and really makes us fear for the characters; as Howard said, we always expected our main characters to win, they would land on their feet, but from this moment on we don't know for sure.

[@mlsaulnier]

I'm glad this video popped into my list of recommended. The connection with Howard and Drew was Sharp. I'll see myself out now.

[@marrodc]

I don't know if you put Mike in frame on purpose right as you said the word "fingers," but either way I fucking loved that

[@SweetGeg]

this is an excellent video :) and I think a testament to how well the show is made. You've made a very compelling video essay on Howard arguing his place in our hearts and him being the moral anchor of the show, while I've managed to disagree with most of it! (respectfully of course haha). Just goes to show how easily this show can be read in different ways. To me Howard was the true villain of BCS. Jimmy was well intentioned and kind with unprofessional methods, Howard was a bully with status and power behind him. Jimmy was never allowed to succeed doing things the right way, Chuck and Howard blocked him at every turn. Howard was granted every opportunity that could have gone to Jimmy: he inherited his job from family, fast-tracked to partner with his name on the logo, and gained wealth and professional acclaim for doing things the right way. Yet unlike Jimmy, despite all his good fortune Howard was a bully. First he blamed his actions on Chuck (were they not BOTH partners?) but my mind was made up after his mistreatment of Kim when he kept her on dock review, with the intention of bullying her out of the company. Even Chuck thought this went too far and his compass was as skewed as you can get. Finally, Howard chose to represent Chuck in court despite knowing all of the awful things he had done to Jimmy when he could have refused due to professional conflict of interests. Chuck sent Jimmy over the edge, but it was Howard that pushed Kim past the point of no return for no reason other than spite. I don't know why Howard was so surprised Jimmy and Kim went after his career when Howard had been doing that to them for years, they were just better at it! Justice was served and Howard's death was essentially a consequence of him whitewashing Chuck's legacy and refusing to accept defeat or take responsibility for where he ended up - the wrong place at the wrong time. great essay again, really enjoyed your take :)

[@andre_santos2181]

Gus said to Mike on S3 a shot on the head was a too good and merciful death for Hector Salamanca. So Howard death was the BB Universe blessing of his innocence and goodness. BTW, Howard death hunted me so much I even dreamt of it. It was a strange nightmare I had to conduct my life knowing Howard´s body was next room, and it would be a sht show when the police discovers it. Actually, the nightmare continued and the body was discovered, nothing happened of special and it hints me the final midseason will let all of us down.

[@tibboocelot9272]

Dude you mixed Better Call Saul footage with Persona 5 Royal music. My favorite show with my favorite game. What a G

[@exdaedalus]

I was spoiled of his death but it still came with a shock. I would confess that I did enjoy Kim and Jimmy's scheme and games to disgrace Howard but I can't help but feel bad for the man. His friend and colleague, a person where he draws admiration from died because of his actions. Bearing that cross he had to suffer through a deep dive of his firm and yet he still was able to rise through it all and become a beacon for normalcy in the series. His death signified more than innocence. It's the death of hope and dreams of redemption.

[@8bitmagic]

Now this is the quality content I come here for!

[@Hazielangelo]

I really, really, understend and liked Howard. Was extremlly Sad to see him dying like that... He deserved better.

[@Pheebeee_]

Hank Schrader and Howard Hamlin are heroes and good men, born into a universe made for villians and bad guys.