re: How far in before Breaking Bad gets really good ?

I like it, but I got to the part where Hank was attacked by the twins and I lost interest for some reason. Been meaning to pick it back up, but it just doesn't happen.

Plus, I hate all the family drama. I know it's all very integral to the dynamic of the show, but I usually fast forward anything at home with Skyler and especially anything with her sister.

I also fastforward through any convos with skylar and her sister or convos between walter and his students at school

Walter is a cautionary tale about how the "road to hell is paved with good intentions." His original objective is understandable and relatable, but he allows pride and selfishness to overcome him. Thus he "breaks bad." He ends up a bad person, but he has relatable motivations.

Jessie tries to not be the bad guy, but he's weak and stupid. He's flawed and maybe ultimately for some people bad and unlikable, but he doesn't really have evil desires.

When it comes down to it, Mike is just a man who is trying to provide for his family. His methods would be unacceptable to most people, but the idea is for us to consider a guy with that type of morals. He's using bad means to accomplish something that many people would consider the highest moral imperative. He's still a bad guy, but at least he has his code.

ETA: You mentioned the Sopranos as an example of a show that handles complex morals better. In general, probably so, but Mike isn't any more of a horrible person than Tony Soprano.

Well, it was technically the episode afterwards where his wife is arguing with everyone and Walter is all guilt trippy. Just seemed like even more drama I didn't care for so I stopped.