Hey guys! Let's dive into the Better Call Saul universe, starting with the very first episode of season one. If you're a fan, you know the hype is real. But what did Reddit think when this gem first dropped? Buckle up, because we're about to dissect all the initial reactions, theories, and memes that swirled around the internet after everyone watched Saul Goodman (or should I say, Jimmy McGill) begin his journey. Get ready for a blast from the past, filled with nostalgia and maybe a few opinions that haven't aged so well.

Initial Impressions: Did Reddit Love It?

So, did Better Call Saul stick the landing right from the get-go? Absolutely! Reddit was buzzing with excitement. Many fans were initially skeptical – could a spin-off of the monumental Breaking Bad really live up to the hype? Turns out, it wasn't just good; it was damn good. The consensus? Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould had done it again. Users praised the show's meticulous attention to detail, the clever writing, and the brilliant character development. It wasn't just riding on Breaking Bad's coattails; it was carving out its own unique, compelling narrative.

One of the biggest points of praise was Bob Odenkirk's performance. He wasn't just comic relief anymore; he was a complex, nuanced character with a tragic backstory. Reddit users were quick to point out the subtle ways Odenkirk portrayed Jimmy's desperation, his ambition, and his moral compromises. It was clear from the first episode that this wasn't just going to be a lighthearted legal comedy. We were in for a deep dive into the making of Saul Goodman, and Reddit was here for it. Discussions popped up left and right analyzing every scene, every line of dialogue, and every little Easter egg that connected the show to its predecessor. The attention to detail was insane, and fans were eating it up. Seriously, the threads were filled with frame-by-frame analyses and wild theories about what was to come. It was like a giant, collective watch party, and everyone was invited. The blend of humor and drama struck a chord, and the slow-burn storytelling had viewers hooked from the opening scene. It was a masterclass in spin-off execution, proving that you can revisit a beloved universe and still find fresh, engaging stories to tell.

Key Moments and Reddit's Reactions

Let's zoom in on some of the key moments from the pilot episode and how Reddit reacted. Remember the skateboarding twins and the staged accident? Reddit went wild! The sheer audacity of Jimmy's schemes, combined with the darkly comedic execution, had everyone laughing and cringing in equal measure. It perfectly encapsulated Jimmy's character: a lovable rogue with a knack for getting into trouble. Then there's Chuck McGill, Jimmy's brother, played by Michael McKean. His portrayal of a man suffering from electromagnetic hypersensitivity was both believable and heartbreaking. Reddit users debated the legitimacy of Chuck's condition and the impact it had on Jimmy's life. Was Chuck genuinely ill, or was it a manifestation of deeper psychological issues? The theories were endless, adding another layer of intrigue to the show.

And who could forget the introduction of Nacho Varga? Michael Mando's chilling performance made an immediate impact. His presence hinted at the darker, more dangerous world that Jimmy was about to enter. Reddit users immediately recognized Nacho as a formidable character and speculated about his role in Jimmy's transformation into Saul Goodman. The episode's final scene, where Jimmy finds himself face-to-face with Tuco Salamanca, was a total game-changer. The tension was palpable, and Reddit exploded with excitement. This wasn't just a legal drama anymore; it was a full-blown crime thriller with connections to the Breaking Bad universe. It was a perfect cliffhanger, leaving viewers desperate for more. The cinematography, the soundtrack, and the overall atmosphere of the episode were also heavily praised. Better Call Saul had a distinct visual style that set it apart from its predecessor, and Reddit appreciated the effort that went into creating a unique aesthetic. The use of color, the camera angles, and the carefully chosen music all contributed to the show's overall impact. It was clear that this wasn't just a spin-off; it was a fully realized work of art.

Theories and Predictions: What Did Reddit Get Right?

One of the most fun things about revisiting old Reddit threads is seeing all the theories and predictions that fans came up with after watching the first episode. Some were spot-on, while others were hilariously wrong. Let's take a look at a few:

• Jimmy's Transformation: Many Reddit users correctly predicted that the show would chronicle Jimmy's gradual descent into Saul Goodman, showing the events and circumstances that led him to embrace his criminal lawyer persona. They speculated about the moral compromises he would have to make and the personal sacrifices he would have to endure. Some even predicted that his relationship with Chuck would play a major role in his transformation, which turned out to be absolutely true.
• Connections to Breaking Bad: Of course, everyone knew that Better Call Saul would have connections to Breaking Bad, but the extent of those connections was a mystery. Some Reddit users guessed that we would see familiar faces like Gus Fring and Mike Ehrmantraut, and they were right! Others speculated about how Jimmy's actions in Better Call Saul would impact the events of Breaking Bad, which also turned out to be a major theme of the show.
• Chuck's Fate: This one was a bit more divisive. Some Reddit users believed that Chuck would eventually redeem himself and reconcile with Jimmy, while others predicted a more tragic ending. As we all know, the latter turned out to be true. Chuck's death had a profound impact on Jimmy and played a significant role in his transformation into Saul Goodman.

Of course, there were also plenty of wrong predictions. Some users thought that Kim Wexler would turn out to be a villain, while others believed that Jimmy would eventually end up in jail. But that's part of the fun of theorizing! It's always interesting to see how the writers subvert expectations and take the story in unexpected directions. The level of engagement from the Reddit community was a testament to the show's quality. Fans weren't just passively watching; they were actively participating in the storytelling, dissecting every detail and sharing their own interpretations. It created a sense of community that made watching the show even more enjoyable.

Lingering Questions and Lasting Impact

Even after all these years, Better Call Saul's pilot episode still sparks discussion. What was the significance of that Chicago sunroof? How much did Chuck really know about Jimmy's schemes? And what was the turning point that led Jimmy to fully embrace the Saul Goodman persona? These are the questions that keep fans coming back for more, dissecting every scene and searching for hidden meanings.

The lasting impact of Better Call Saul is undeniable. It's not just a great spin-off; it's a great show in its own right. It expanded the Breaking Bad universe in meaningful ways, introduced us to unforgettable characters, and explored complex themes of family, ambition, and morality. And it all started with that first episode, which captivated Reddit and set the stage for one of the best television dramas of all time. The show's willingness to take risks and explore unconventional storytelling techniques set it apart from other crime dramas. It wasn't afraid to be slow-paced, character-driven, and morally ambiguous. And that's what made it so compelling.

So, whether you're a longtime fan or a newbie just discovering the Better Call Saul universe, take a trip back to the beginning and see what all the fuss is about. You might be surprised at how much you missed the first time around. And don't forget to check out the old Reddit threads – they're a treasure trove of insights, theories, and hilarious memes. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!