Breaking Bad Remake: Metástasis
In the world of film and TV, certain classics feel untouchable. Imagine trying to remake "The Godfather" or "The Sopranos." Yet, out of billions of people, there’s always someone bold enough to give it a shot. You might be surprised to hear that "Breaking Bad," a show that grabbed 16 Emmys and holds a Guinness World Record as the most critically acclaimed series, has been remade. This time, it’s a Colombian spin called "Metástasis."
A Familiar Story with a New Setting
"Metástasis" is a Spanish-language series from Colombia that mirrors the original "Breaking Bad" but swaps Albuquerque for Bogotá. It’s a complete remake, stretching across five seasons with the same 62 episodes as AMC’s hit. The entire series aired quickly, running from June 8, 2014, to September 18, 2014.
Keeping Close to the Original
The series doesn’t stray far from its source material. While some pacing and subplots have slight tweaks, it sticks closely to the original storyline. The remake offers a close replication rather than a fresh take on the tale. It avoids creative risks, which means it sidesteps potential pitfalls like weak characters or a sluggish narrative. Instead, "Metástasis" faithfully captures the themes and characters that made "Breaking Bad" so gripping.
Meet Walter Blanco
In "Metástasis," we find Walter Blanco (played by Diego Trujillo), a high school chemistry teacher who’s overworked and underpaid. Just like Walter White, he’s grappling with a lung cancer diagnosis. Blanco has a teenage son, Walter Blanco Jr., who has a disability, and his wife, Cielo (played by Sandra Reyes), is expecting another child. It’s a tough spot — Blanco’s part-time car wash job isn’t enough to secure his family’s future after he’s gone.
The Turning Point
The turning point for Blanco comes when he witnesses a drug raid led by his brother-in-law, Henry Navarro (Julián Arango), who’s part of Colombia’s Anti-Narcotics division. This sparks an idea: Blanco decides to use his chemistry skills to make methamphetamine, hoping to provide financial security for his family.
Conclusion
"Metástasis" offers a unique chance to watch a beloved story unfold in a different cultural setting. While it might not offer a new interpretation, it brings the intense drama and compelling characters of "Breaking Bad" to a new audience. If you’re a fan of the original, this Colombian version might be worth a watch to see how Walter Blanco navigates his journey in Bogotá.
