Better Call Saul is an American television drama series created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. It first aired on AMC in 2015 and has since gone on to become a beloved show with seven seasons. It follows the life of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer searching for his destiny, as he transitions into the criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. It has been highly praised for its writing, performances, and cinematography. Here we take a look at the best episodes of this critically acclaimed show as ranked by viewers.
Warning: the following content contains spoilers!
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In the episode “Plan and Execution” of Better Call Saul, Jimmy and Kim deal with a last-minute snag while Howard’s investigation finally yields results. The episode was truly heartbreaking as Jimmy’s life begins to morph into Saul’s longterm burden. The juxtaposition between Nacho’s heroic and Howard’s tragic death was particularly impactful, as Jimmy and Kim had tarnished his reputation and his death would cement his defamed legacy. The tension and emotion in the final scenes was heightened by the fact that the deaths felt inevitable, and the performance by Patrick Fabian was award worthy. [spoiler] The final sequence was particularly horrifying, and scarier than most horror movies. [/spoiler] Overall, the episode was full of drama and emotion that made for a powerful and memorable viewing experience.
The episode was rated 8.81 from 1807 votes.
In the episode Point and Shoot of Better Call Saul, Jimmy and Kim are finally forced to deal with the consequences of their actions. As they face the unexpected visitor, the tension builds to an unbearable level as they both realize that they have to face the music. The viewer is taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions as they witness the unfolding of events and the sheer terror that ensues. Rhea Seehorn Emmy nomination is much deserved for her powerful performance in the episode. The episode was an intense experience and left the audience in awe of the impeccable writing and the brilliant direction. It was one of the greatest episodes of television and left viewers genuinely afraid of what was going to happen next.
The episode was rated 8.72 from 1616 votes.
In the episode “Bad Choice Road” of Better Call Saul, Jimmy is trying to return to business as usual after a traumatic misadventure, but it proves to be more difficult than anticipated. Meanwhile, Gus and Mike set a plan in motion. This episode left viewers on the edge of their seats, particularly during the last 10 to 15 minutes which many described as “gut wrenching” and “heart stopping”. It was one of the most suspenseful moments in television history and viewers were particularly concerned about the fate of Kim Wexler, who many considered to be the best character on television in 2020. In the end, the episode received a 10/10 rating from viewers and is a must-see for any fan of the show.
The episode was rated 8.57 from 2561 votes.
In the third episode of the season, Rock and Hard Place, Nacho Varga finds himself on the run and forced to choose between his loyalties. Jimmy McGill is determined to double down on his own decisions. Michael Mando's performance in this episode is truly remarkable, and viewers watching it live were left in shock when Nacho's death was revealed. This death was particularly tragic, as it was unexpected. Even though it seemed absurd to kill off one of the main characters so early in the season, it was a powerful and moving send-off. The episode left viewers feeling heartbroken and in awe of the writers for creating such a powerful and impactful episode.
The episode was rated 8.49 from 1716 votes.
The season finale of Better Call Saul, titled "Something Unforgivable", was a thrilling conclusion to the season. Jimmy and Kim make a risky, yet calculated move that quickly turns sour. Nacho gets closer to the cartel than he would have liked and it leads to a tense situation. The episode is full of unexpected twists and reveals that set the stage for future episodes.
The episode was met with mixed critical reception. Some viewers were disappointed with the turn of events, feeling like Jimmy and Kim had failed. Others were surprised by Nacho's decisions and the depth of his involvement with the cartel. There were also those who thought the episode was truly remarkable, with its exciting plot and unexpected surprises. All in all, the episode was a fitting end to the season and set up some intriguing possibilities for the next season.
The episode was rated 8.38 from 2522 votes.
In the episode "Bagman" of Better Call Saul, Jimmy is forced to the brink when an errand for a client goes wrong, and he and Mike must venture into the New Mexico desert to make things right. Jimmy is ill-equipped to handle the situation and finds himself tested by the harsh environment, losing mementos that used to define him and being humbled by his lack of control. Mike, on the other hand, is experienced and determined, and is able to draw on his background in special forces to get himself and Jimmy out of danger. As the two struggle to survive, they draw on memories of the past and what has led them to this moment. In the end, Jimmy is willing to debase himself and become bait to ensure they both make it out alive, and the episode culminates in a thrilling climax.
The episode was rated 8.38 from 2607 votes.
Episode 12 of Better Call Saul's sixth season, titled "Waterworks," was an incredibly powerful hour of television. Not only did it draw out the stark differences between Jimmy and Kim, but it also gave us a look at the depths of terribleness to which Gene has sunk. Kim's moral fortitude was on full display as she willingly chose to confess her sins and accept the consequences, regardless of the legal, moral, or otherwise implications that doing so would bring. Her stark contrast to Gene, who resorts to ever more cruelty and fraud to save himself from facing any of the consequences he so richly deserves, only serves to further highlight her strength of character. Rhea Seehorn's acting was nothing short of masterful in this episode, and her performance was a testament to the complexity of her character. Finally, Gilligan's subtle homage to the reveal of Walt and Skylar in Breaking Bad's finale, Felina, was a nice reminder of the show's roots. All in all, this was an incredible episode that will surely be remembered as one of the show's best.
The episode was rated 8.32 from 1086 votes.
In the episode "Chicanery" of the show Better Call Saul, Kim and Jimmy face off against an adversary as Jimmy looks to Chuck's past to secure his future. Jimmy loses an ally and gains another. The episode is a masterclass in tension, character, and storytelling, as it takes the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions. The episode opens with a flashback to a time when Jimmy and Chuck were using their scheming in concert rather than against one another. Through this scene, we get a glimpse of Chuck's prideful nature and his need to mask his frustrations with notions of propriety and principles.
The episode then moves on to the courtroom drama, where Kim Wexler is fierce in her defense and earns the respect of her client, while Howard, who is usually a cipher, is honest on the stand and complimentary about Jimmy when he doesn't have to be. This sets up the epic showdown between Jimmy and Chuck, where Jimmy resorts to some "chicanery" in order to show Chuck's mental instability to the disciplinary board. Jimmy shows pictures from Chuck's home, gestures to Rebecca in the audience, and even gets an emotional apology from Chuck to her. He then takes out a cell phone, expecting a reaction from Chuck, but it is Chuck who realizes that the phone is without a battery. Jimmy then pulls out the surprise element of his trick - the battery that had been hidden in Chuck's breast pocket. This sets Chuck off in a deranged rant, exposing him as mentally ill. The episode ends with a far shot of Chuck, seeming so small and defeated, as the buzz of the exit sign looms large next to him. This is Chuck's Waterloo, the terrible culmination of two brothers' issues with one another, laid bare in a court of law.
The episode was rated 8.30 from 6871 votes.
1. The season finale of Better Call Saul was a great climax to an amazing season. Jimmy was determined to move past his "Slippin' Jimmy" past and earn the respect he deserves. After his breakdown after his scholarship speech, Jimmy was reborn as Saul, determined to climb to the top of the building. On the other hand, Mike was forced to make a difficult decision and push away almost everyone, in order to have full control over his deeply damaged life.
2. The episode focused on the complex transformation of Jimmy into Saul, and also gave Mike a great season finale, as he was forced to make a difficult decision. Lalo also had a great introduction, and the Jimmy and Chuck story was a great conflict of feelings. Ultimately, it was the clearest steps yet, towards Saul Goodman. Fans were thrilled with the amazing season finale, with many praising the complexity and emotional depth of the episode.
The episode was rated 8.29 from 3127 votes.
The episode "Fun and Games" of Better Call Saul is an episode of outstanding quality. The episode focuses on Gus attempting to smooth things over with the cartel while Mike ties up loose ends. Fans of the show Breaking Bad were eager to see how the relationship between Jimmy and Kim would come to an end. The writers skillfully created a complex and detailed story that was both beautiful and tragic.
The episode was praised for its focus on small moments and the power of the mundane. Fans of the show were in awe of the episode's detail and the quality of the storytelling. It is no surprise that this episode is considered one of the best of the series. It is a testament to the talent of the cast and crew that they can consistently produce such high-quality episodes.
The episode was rated 8.24 from 1472 votes.
In the episode "Wexler v. Goodman" of the show Better Call Saul, Kim tries to pump the brakes on Jimmy's latest scheme, but it may be too late to stop Saul. Mike turns the heat up on Lalo and Nacho attempts to enlist support from above. Kim's plan reflects who she is, as she wants to reach a settlement with Mr. Acker and pay for any surplus above what Mesa Verde's willing to cover out of her own pocket. Jimmy, however, enjoys the hunt as much as the prize and wants to do things his way, regardless of the consequences. Mike springs his trap on Lalo through his knowledge of what strings to pull to bring law enforcement into his adversary's business. When it comes time to agree to the settlement that Kim and Jimmy pre-arranged, Jimmy calls an audible and demands four million dollars. This infuriates Kim and Kevin Wachtell, but it gets Kevin to deal. Kim knows Jimmy well enough to know that he didn't do it for any of the benefits, but because he likes to win. This leads Kim to suggest that she and Jimmy should either break up or get married.
The episode was rated 8.23 from 2456 votes.
In the episode "Pimento", Jimmy is faced with a harsh truth and is urged to accept it by Chuck. This truth is that Jimmy should change his name in order to pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer. It is a difficult decision for Jimmy, but one he must make if he wants to move forward.
Meanwhile, Mike's abilities are questioned when a deal threatens to go off the rails. Though Mike is confident in his abilities, he is forced to prove his capability to complete the job. The episode is filled with tension as both Jimmy and Mike are put in difficult positions. After the episode concluded, viewers found out the truth about the billboard situation and that it was Chuck who asked Jimmy to change his name. This provided a different perspective on the episode and revealed the complexity of the characters and the story.
The episode was rated 8.23 from 4880 votes.
"Nailed" is an incredible episode of Better Call Saul, where both Mike and Jimmy take a methodical approach to their missions, only to have their plans foiled by the law of unintended consequences. Mike is initially overjoyed with his new windfall, but soon receives a call from Nacho, revealing that an innocent bystander has been killed because of his actions. Jimmy's plan to take down his brother succeeds, but the fallout of his actions leads to a huge rift between him and Kim, and Chuck has a complete breakdown. The episode is an incredible piece of television, with great acting, plotting, and dialogue, and a stunning final scene where Kim sums up the McGill brothers in the most heartbreaking way.
The episode was rated 8.21 from 6141 votes.
In the episode "Carrot and Stick" of the show Better Call Saul, two unlikely moral guardians, Jimmy and Mike, try to make things right despite the danger of their respective partners' hunger for blood. The episode focuses on Nacho's harsh reality as Gus investigates his suspicions, leading to a thrilling set piece of a shoot-out. Kim Wexler and Saul Goodman want to threaten the Kettlemans until they crack and Kim has no sympathy for them. In contrast, Saul Goodman wants to bribe them and Jimmy still gives them the money, regretting when others get caught in the crossfire. Mike Ehrmantraut stands at the other end of a gun and wants to spare Ignacio and his dad. He knows there's another way and he has a place where he draws the line. Meanwhile, Gus is rattled and accidentally knocks a glass off a table. His empire, his precision machine, could come crashing down thanks to the self-preserving machinations of one mole. Mike and Jimmy's attempts to make things right speak to the show's implicit suggestion that things have gone too far. The episode is on stride with what it does best, those deep, raw, emotional scenes that scream without speaking a single word.
The episode was rated 8.17 from 1656 votes.
In the Better Call Saul episode "Lantern," Jimmy McGill takes time to make amends and Nacho gambles with his future. Hamlin pushes Chuck to make a decision, and Kim takes time off and chooses to relax instead of jumping back into the breakneck schedule that brought her to that point. Jimmy admits he's not good at building things, only tearing them down, and he uses this to his disadvantage to try to fix his mistakes. Meanwhile, Chuck systematically alienates everyone who cares about him, culminating in him tearing his own house apart in a manic search for electricity. By the end, Chuck has been pushed away from everyone and is left in a stupor, and Jimmy is left to reflect on the fact that he's incapable of escaping his nature.
The episode was rated 8.16 from 5873 votes.
The episode "Klick" of the show Better Call Saul was a heart-wrenching one, especially with the starting scene. Despite being Jimmy's brother, Chuck never treated him with the respect he deserved. Mike's role in the episode was slower than usual, but the scenes between him and Jimmy were incredibly tense. The "DON'T" message was a reminder of Gus Fring's "POLLOS" messages, leading one to believe that the show is headed in that direction.
The ending of the show was absolutely shocking, with Hamlin delivering some unexpected news. Chuck remains one of the most hated characters of the show, even when compared to Breaking Bad. Fans are now anxiously awaiting for season 3 to explore the next chapter in Jimmy's story.
The episode was rated 8.15 from 6294 votes.
The series finale of Better Call Saul titled Saul Gone was a fitting end to the 14 year journey of the show. In this episode, Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman had to make a difficult decision between his freedom and the freedom of Kim Wexler. Despite his earlier protestations that his only regret was not making more money or avoiding knee damage, he wanted to confess in a court of law that he regrets the choices that led him here and the pain he caused, and most of all he regrets that they led to losing her. In the end, Jimmy uses his incredible skills to accept his consequences, rather than sidestep them, and he finds the better path that Kim always believed he could walk, one that she motivates him to tread.
The finale of Better Call Saul was a tale of hope and redemption. It showed that with love and support, even the worst of us can become someone and something better. In the end, Jimmy was able to take his name back, a conscious return to being the person that Kim once knew, in form and substance. Better Call Saul was an incredible show and the finale offered a perfect ending to the story of Saul Goodman.
The episode was rated 8.11 from 19 votes.
In the episode "Five-O" of the show Better Call Saul, Mike's tragic past comes back to haunt him, and he is forced to seek help from an unusual source. Jonathan Banks is incredible in the role of Mike, playing the stoic, taciturn old hand with such skill that the audience can feel the beating heart beneath his steely exterior. The episode is constructed beautifully, cutting back and forth between the present and the future to answer the questions of how Mike was shot and what brought him to Albuquerque. The sequence where Mike takes out his son's murderers is masterful as it shows his capability, nervousness, and wily nature. The episode ends with a powerful and tragic scene between Mike and his daughter-in-law, in which he reveals his deepest regret and throws himself at her mercy. "Five-O" is a great episode of Better Call Saul that deepens the audience's understanding of Mike and lays the groundwork for why he and Jimmy McGill would find each other useful in the future.
The episode was rated 8.10 from 5010 votes.
In the episode “JMM” of the show Better Call Saul, Jimmy and Kim build a legal firewall with help from Huell. Kim sets things straight with her clients as Jimmy is compromised by his. Meanwhile, Gus calms troubled waters in service of his plot to build an empire, and Mike does damage control.
The episode features a heartwarming moment between Jimmy and Kim, who exchange vows in a dingy courthouse, and their moment of romantic transcendence amidst their practical reasons for marriage. In contrast, Kim’s interactions with her client Kevin Wachtell are frank and direct, and Gus uses a shared history to persuade his benefactor to stay in the fight. Nacho’s mission to burn down one of Gus’s restaurant is cool but cathartic, and he does it for the protection of his father. Mike’s interludes with his granddaughter and daughter-in-law are sweet and he finds peace by accepting his professional situation and enjoying the private, personal things.
Jimmy’s conflicted about Mike’s request to help a cold blooded killer evade justice, and he peers at the victim’s family from around a corner with a reflection of his duality in the moment. Despite his impulsive mercenary craftiness, he still has a genuine care for people and can feel their pain. However, Howard Hamlin intervenes, revokes his job offer, and Jimmy lashes out in response, promoting himself as a god. His personal motivations have changed, and now he wants revenge to show the people and institutions that have made him feel “less than” that he’s better than them.
The episode was rated 8.05 from 2409 votes.
Jimmy and Kim pull off a complex scheme, but Jimmy's renewed efforts to have Kim be his partner in law are rejected, leaving him frustrated and leading to him lashing out at Kim. Mike is dealing with the consequences of Werner's escape. Lalo is making overtures and feints towards Gus. The episode ends with Jimmy and Kim's relationship on the rocks, with it still to be determined whether they can put it back together.
The episode was rated 8.04 from 2998 votes.
Last updated: may 08, 2023
