Box Cutter

Episode Summary & Review

Summary

In the Season 4 opener, Walt and Jesse are confronted by the life threatening consequences of their actions. Meanwhile, Skyler contends with a puzzling disappearance, and Marie finds it difficult to help a recovering Hank.

Our Take

The aftermath of Gale’s murder, staged as an hour of pure dread. Gus arrives at the lab, changes into protective gear in absolute silence, picks up a box cutter, and cuts Victor’s throat, the man’s crime being seen at the crime scene. He lets the body bleed out on the lab floor, washes up, and says, in effect: never make me do this again. The most violent hour of the season barely contains a raised voice. Walt and Jesse go back to work with blood on the floor and a new understanding: they are employees, and employees are replaceable.