Highlights
Breaking Bad's success can be attributed to its top-notch writing, realistic portrayal of consequences, and compelling characters like Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.
The conclusion of Breaking Bad leaves Jesse's future hanging in the balance, yet it strongly implies that he is heading towards a conventional life devoid of crime.
Released in 2019, the Netflix film El Camino serves as a direct continuation of Breaking Bad, delving into Jesse's journey following the events of the television series. It unravels his last endeavor to liberate himself from his turbulent criminal history.
Despite airing more than ten years ago, Breaking Bad continues to generate buzz on the internet. It is undoubtedly one of the most successful TV shows of all time, thanks to its exceptional writing, realistic portrayal, and captivating characters. Bryan Cranston, portraying the brilliant chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin Walter White, couldn't have reached such heights without the support of his former student Jesse Pinkman, brilliantly portrayed by Aaron Paul.
Breaking Bad concludes with each of the main characters facing the consequences of their actions. Saul Goodman finds himself behind bars for his crimes, while Walter White meets his demise as a result of his relentless pursuit of power and disregard for others. However, Jesse's fate is more ambiguous. Although he survives until the end, what lies ahead for him is uncertain. Fortunately, El Camino serves as a satisfying conclusion to Jesse's story, offering a deeper exploration of his life beyond the events of Breaking Bad.
How Does Jesse's Story End On Breaking Bad
Jesse and Walter's relationship had its ups and downs, but it was mostly on a downward spiral. They initially bonded over financial difficulties, and though they developed a father-son dynamic in the second season, things took a turn for the worse due to Walter's inflated ego and manipulative behavior. As Walter became more involved in the drug cartel, eliminating rivals driven by his own greed and ego, he not only brought harm upon himself but also dragged Jesse into the chaotic mess.
Despite Jesse's efforts to break free from a life of crime, Walter continuously pulled him back in, further straining their relationship. In the fifth season, Jesse found himself in the clutches of a gang of Neo-Nazis led by Jack Welker, who coerced him into cooking meth under harsh conditions against his will. For six grueling months, Jesse was confined by chains, forced to cook, and slept on a cold concrete floor. Unexpectedly, in a surprising twist, Walter rescued him. Motivated by his desire for redemption, especially with his cancer returning, Walter made an effort to reconcile and rectify the damage caused by his actions before his impending death.
El Camino: The Real Ending To Jesse's Breaking Bad Story
Upon being freed, Jesse immediately aims his gun at Walter, contemplating whether or not to end his life. However, he ultimately cannot find it within himself to follow through with such an act. As a result, the two men go their separate ways, with Jesse taking off in Todd's Chevrolet El Camino. Meanwhile, Walter succumbs to a gunshot wound, effectively signaling the culmination of his tumultuous journey. Although the conclusion of Breaking Bad does leave Jesse's future uncertain, it strongly suggests that he is now on a path towards reclaiming a sense of normalcy, liberated from the criminal and corrupt world that once consumed his existence.El Camino, the 2019 Netflix film, serves as a direct follow-up to Breaking Bad and delves into the post-TV show journey of Jesse Pinkman. The movie takes its name from the automobile that Jesse is seen driving subsequent to his murder of Todd, the previous owner, in the climactic finale of Breaking Bad Season 5. Commencing with a flashback, the narrative presents a conversation between Jesse and Mike, discussing their intentions to exit the drug trade. While Mike expresses his decision to head to Atlanta, Jesse, in contrast, resolves to seek redemption for his past deeds. Regrettably, Mike voices his skepticism, deeming such a feat insurmountable.
After Walter's death, Jesse escapes from the police and seeks refuge with his old friends Badger and Skinny Pete. Throughout the film, there are flashbacks and memories of past characters, including Mr. White and Jane Margolis, as Jesse strives to break free from his criminal life. In order to start anew, Jesse seeks out money and a new identity, which he discovers in Todd's apartment. Despite facing dangerous confrontations, Jesse manages to obtain the money and gives it to the infamous vacuum salesman, who helps him obtain a new identity and flee to Alaska.
In the entire Breaking Bad universe, Jesse Pinkman is the one character who truly deserved a chance at a fresh start. However, even as he attempts to begin anew, it is clear that his farewell scene does not guarantee a positive outcome for Cap'n Cook. He is still shown grappling with the burden of his past, something that is not easily relinquished.
Jesse's future had actually been determined well in advance of the release of El Camino. In the last season of Better Call Saul, there were scenes set towards the end of the Breaking Bad universe that hinted at Jesse living a new life in Alaska, free from a life of crime.