Why isn’t Jimmy more upset about Chuck’s death on Better Call Saul?
The Unveiling of Jimmy McGill
Jimmy McGill, the central character of Breaking Bad prequel Better Call Saul, is a man deeply rooted in emotional complexity. His journey from Jimmy to Saul Goodman not only showcases a transformation in his persona but also in his emotional responses to the people around him. One pivotal question in the show is how Jimmy can appear almost indifferent to Chuck McGill's death. The answer lies in understanding the intricate dynamics of their relationship and Jimmy's psychological journey.
A Mask of Indifference
Jimmy has always been adept at controlling his emotions, often blocking out feelings like guilt and shame. This mastery is exacerbated by his fear of having to confront the possibility that he might have caused Chuck's death. Jimmy's emotional numbness, which becomes a hallmark of the Saul Goodman persona, is a defense mechanism he employs to shield himself from the harsh realities of his actions and the responsibility they bring.
The Final Regret
The Breaking Bad finale reveals Jimmy's true emotional turmoil. In the final episode of Better Call Saul, Jimmy confesses all the horrific things he has done and mentions Chuck, acknowledging his deepest regret: not having a heart-to-heart with his brother about pursuing his path in life. This confession underscores the depth of his feelings, despite his outward indifference.
Chuck’s Fatalistic Approach
The reason Jimmy appears almost unflustered by Chuck's death can be traced back to Chuck's pragmatic and fatalistic nature. Chuck made sure Jimmy had no reason to be upset by rendering Jimmy incapable of caring deeply about him. Chuck's last words to Jimmy were loving but also enigmatic, calling Jimmy a rival more than a brother. This portrayal of Chuck's mindset sheds light on why Jimmy's lack of emotional outpouring is not unexpected.
A Life Sentenced to Suffering
Chuck's envious nature and his complex emotions towards Jimmy are further illustrated by the encouragement he gave to Jimmy to become a lawyer, despite his own disdain for the profession. Chuck's decision to literally and figuratively sabotage Jimmy's law career demonstrates the extent of his ruthless enmity. Despite this, Chuck's bitter words to Jimmy after his brother's death only serve to reinforce the idea that Chuck was always more of a rival than a beloved brother to Jimmy.
Jimmy's Emotional Truth
Jimmy's emotional response to Chuck's death is a testament to his emotional authenticity. Chuck's treatment of Jimmy as scum, ensuring he could not succeed in life, was a calculated move by Chuck to distance himself emotionally. Jimmy's response, though seemingly indifferent, reflects the emotional complexity that Chuck had instilled in him. The final scene where Jimmy recognizes the value he placed on Chuck's trust and support, despite Chuck's betrayal, encapsulates Jimmy's true feelings.
Jimmy's emotionally appropriate response to his brother's death is a reflection of the profound impact Chuck had on his life, even in the face of Chuck's apparent lack of care. The show reveals that Chuck's actions, though cruel, had a deeper purpose, making Jimmy's emotional response a complex and nuanced one rather than an expected outburst of grief.
Conclusion
Understanding Jimmy McGill's emotional landscape requires a deep dive into the intricate relationship between Jimmy and Chuck. The complexity of their dynamics and the events that transpired throughout the series contribute to Jimmy's seemingly detached response to Chuck's death. While Chuck's actions made it difficult for Jimmy to show the expected grief, the final scene of the series offers a glimpse into Jimmy's true feelings, a bittersweet reminder of his brother's profound impact on his life.