In the world of television, there's a unique phenomenon where certain shows become so iconic that they spawn a universe of their own. Breaking Bad, with its complex characters and gripping narrative, is one such show. Today, we delve into the mind of Sam Catlin, the writer-producer who has not only been a part of this universe but has also brought it to a new setting in Los Angeles through his work on Sugar.
The Breaking Bad Legacy
Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, left an indelible mark on television. Its impact was so profound that even years after its conclusion, the show continues to influence and inspire. Sam Catlin, a two-time Emmy winner, was a key part of this legacy, penning 10 episodes of the landmark series. But his connection to the Breaking Bad universe didn't end there.
Importing the Universe to LA
Catlin's journey with Breaking Bad led him to work on Sugar, a neo-noir series set in Los Angeles. The show, led by Colin Farrell, introduces us to John Sugar, an alien who, while undercover as a PI, helps find a missing granddaughter. What's fascinating is the intentional recruitment of talent from the Breaking Bad universe, including director Michelle MacLaren and actor Jonathan Banks.
A Hero in a World of Antiheroes
In an era dominated by antiheroes, Sugar stands out as a genuine hero. Catlin, who followed Breaking Bad with Preacher, a show filled with dastardly characters, found the goodness of John Sugar to be a refreshing change. Sugar, despite having his own skeletons, remains decent and integral, a character trait that resonates with viewers and gives the show a nostalgic feel.
An Alien's Perspective on Humanity
One of the most intriguing aspects of Sugar is the alien protagonist's perspective on humanity. Having fallen in love with the 1940s human being from the movies he watched, Sugar is perplexed by the complexities and contradictions of the modern world. This perspective serves as a reminder of the horrors we often turn a blind eye to. It's a unique way of presenting a familiar city, Los Angeles, through an alien's eyes, offering a fresh and thought-provoking take.
Showrunning and Adding Humor
As the showrunner for season two, Catlin aimed to continue the success of season one while adding his own touch. He focused on humor, but not the cynical kind. Instead, he wanted to find humor that suited Sugar's character, someone who is not cynical or sneering. This approach added a new layer to the show, expanding its scope and momentum.
The Extended Family Reunion
Season two of Sugar brought together an extended family of talent from the Breaking Bad universe. From actors like Tony Dalton to directors Michael Morris and Adam Bernstein, the reunion was intentional. Catlin, having started his career on Breaking Bad, felt a deep connection to the people he worked with there. He believes that everything he knows about running a television show is from those five seasons, and he strives to emulate the excellence of Vince Gilligan's world.
Twists and Turns
The massive twist in season one, revealing John's alien identity, set a high bar. Catlin understood that suspense is often better than surprise, and he didn't try to one-up that twist in season two. Instead, he focused on the organic evolution of the characters, letting the narrative unfold naturally. This approach allowed the show to tackle real-world issues like homelessness and fentanyl, grounding the story in the realities of Los Angeles.
A Hollywood Story
For Catlin, Sugar was always about the nostalgic noir detective show set in Los Angeles. The city, with its palm trees and dreams, also has a darker side, a schizophrenia that the show explores. By tackling these real-life issues, Sugar becomes a reflection of the city and a commentary on its contradictions. It's a Hollywood story, told in Hollywood, and the local crews appreciated the rare opportunity to film in their city.
Conclusion
Sugar, with its unique blend of sci-fi and noir, offers a fresh perspective on a familiar city. Through the eyes of an alien, we see Los Angeles in a new light, exploring its complexities and contradictions. Catlin's work on the show, drawing from the Breaking Bad universe, showcases the impact and legacy of great television. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of iconic shows.
