A Break From Reality: 10 Superior Scripted Shows

“Breaking Bad” (AMC, returns this summer)

Now in its fifth season and somehow raising the stakes each year, the slow-burning morality tale of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), who resorts to cooking meth to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer, has surprised us at every turn. Walter’s transformation from mild-mannered chemistry teacher to fearsome drug kingpin is one of the most drastic character shifts in TV history, and his ... more 

“Breaking Bad” (AMC, returns this summer)

Now in its fifth season and somehow raising the stakes each year, the slow-burning morality tale of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), who resorts to cooking meth to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer, has surprised us at every turn. Walter’s transformation from mild-mannered chemistry teacher to fearsome drug kingpin is one of the most drastic character shifts in TV history, and his journey into darkness has been equal parts pulse-pounding action flick and mesmerizing psychological character study. Stocked with great performances (thank you, Giancarlo Esposito), random bursts of pitch-black humor, and jaw-dropping twists, “Breaking Bad” is sadly coming to an end this year -- so enjoy it while it lasts. less