The hidden life of Saul Goodman: From Cinnabon to Hot Topic

A new beginning in black and white

“Better Call Saul” opens with a striking black-and-white sequence, revealing Saul Goodman, now known as Gene Takavic, working at a Cinnabon in an Omaha mall. This scene is a poignant reminder of Saul’s drastic transformation and his attempt to lay low after the tumultuous events of “Breaking Bad.” The series then rewinds to explore the life of Jimmy McGill before he ever crossed paths with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.

The alternate reality: Hot Topic

Interestingly, Saul’s fate could have been quite different. In an early draft of the “Breaking Bad” episode where Saul and Walter prepare to enter witness protection, Saul almost ended up working at Hot Topic instead. This revelation was shared by “Better Call Saul” co-creator and showrunner Peter Gould on the social media platform Bluesky. In the draft, Saul tells Walt, “From here on out, I’m Mr. Low Profile — just another douchebag with a job and three pairs of Dockers. I mean, a month from now, best case scenario, I’m managing a Hot Topic in Omaha.”

The Cinnabon connection

Gould explained the change, noting that Hot Topic was carrying “Breaking Bad” merchandise at the time. To avoid any appearance of a cheap promotional tie-in, the decision was made to switch to Cinnabon. This choice turned out to be serendipitous, as Cinnabon had no prior knowledge of the show’s plans and only found out when the episode aired.

A funnier twist

Responding to a fan’s comment that “Cinnabon is definitely a funnier word” than Hot Topic, Gould agreed wholeheartedly. The Cinnabon brand not only provided a humorous and memorable setting but also became an integral part of the show’s narrative. The bakery chain embraced the connection, offering several promotions tied to “Better Call Saul,” including free cinnamon rolls for fans.

The technical brilliance of “Better Call Saul”

“Better Call Saul” is not just a prequel; it is a masterclass in storytelling and character development. The show’s creators have meticulously crafted a narrative that delves deep into the psyche of Jimmy McGill, exploring his transformation into the morally ambiguous Saul Goodman. The use of black-and-white sequences to depict Gene Takavic’s life adds a layer of visual storytelling that contrasts sharply with the vibrant colors of his past.

The evolution of Jimmy McGill

Throughout the series, viewers witness Jimmy’s gradual descent into the persona of Saul Goodman. This transformation is marked by a series of ethical compromises and personal betrayals, each pushing him further away from his original identity. The show’s writers have expertly woven these elements into a cohesive narrative, making Jimmy’s journey both compelling and tragic.

Industry reflections

The success of “Better Call Saul” can be attributed to its strong writing, exceptional performances, and attention to detail. Bob Odenkirk’s portrayal of Jimmy/Saul/Gene is both nuanced and powerful, capturing the complexities of a character who is constantly at war with himself. The show’s ability to stand on its own while also enriching the “Breaking Bad” universe is a testament to the creators’ vision and expertise.

The cultural impact

“Better Call Saul” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The show’s exploration of themes such as identity, morality, and redemption resonates with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success. The decision to feature Cinnabon as a recurring element has also cemented its place in the cultural zeitgeist, with fans eagerly anticipating each glimpse into Gene Takavic’s life.

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