Wow. I really enjoyed reading through all the varied opinions. Thanks and Lurve to everybody.
I probably should have said ONE OF the best endings since my vote for BEST EVER finale goes to Newhart for sheer brilliant genius (it was actually his wife who suggested it to him.)
But this finale was a whole lot more satisfying than other notable fails (Sopranos, Dexter, X-Files, Lost and a whole lot more.)
Yes, it was a bit predictable in terms of the broad strokes but if it had ended more obliquely, I think everyone would have been majorly pissed. It was a fitting ending for a show which was so meticulously plotted and paid attention to the smallest detail. I’m good with it.
And I will admit to tearing up a bit at the scene with Skyler where he finally was honest with her and admitted the truth of his motivation as not being solely about doing it for his family. And he did give her a bargaining chip to get her off the hook with the DEA.
And his little goodbye moment of stroking Baby Holly’s cheek was poignant and sweet.
I think what I appreciated most about the ending is that it left people feeling good about investing five viewing years time into a show (unlike Lost and others) and not feeling ripped off in the end.
I’m still pondering about how I feel about the character of Jesse (considering some excellent observations by Tom-g)
But all in all, maybe not the absolute best finale but definitely a home run IMHO.
PS. I almost forgot: for a show about such a serious subject, I’ve always appreciated the little humorous touches throughout.
The reveal of the “assassins lasers” as wielded by Badger and Skinny Pete was a great touch. And their little protestations about feeling morally ambiguous about it being deftly silenced by a wad of cash brought a smile to my face. So typical BB humor. I loved it.