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.