Premiered: January 20, 2008

On: AMC

Starring: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, Betsy Brandt, RJ Mitte, Steven Michael Quezada, Carmen Serando, Maximino Arciniega, Charles Baker, Raymond Cruz, Jessica Hecht, Tess Harper, Matt L. Jones, Rodney Rush & Marius Stan

Starting with a high-stake opening sequence, it’s clear from the first minutes that Breaking Bad is a show you don’t want to miss.

When he’s diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, high school chemistry teacher Walter White (Bryan Cranston) decides he’s done with being the nice guy. Unable to support his wife (Anna Gunn) and son (RJ Mitte), Walter turns to his former student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) to help make and sell meth.

Within seven episodes, Cranston gives Walter incredible character development. He starts as a timid teacher and works his way up to ruthless criminal. With a different actor, the show could’ve seen an early ending, but Cranston is the perfect star.

Many elements, including comedy, crime and drama, blend to create something that will appeal to many different audience types.

Final say: Breaking ratings. ★★★★★