Better Call Saul: Inside ADX Montrose & Jimmy's Prison Life

19 May, 2025

Did the depiction of ADX Montrose in "Better Call Saul" accurately portray the realities of a Supermax prison? While the show presented a version of ADX Montrose that was, at times, seemingly less harsh than the actual ADX Florence, the core message about confinement and the consequences of actions resonated powerfully.

In the gripping finale of "Better Call Saul," Jimmy McGill, the once-charming con artist known as Saul Goodman, finds himself incarcerated in ADX Montrose, a fictionalized maximum-security federal prison. This institution serves as a stark reflection of the real ADX Florence, located in Florence, Colorado. The series meticulously crafted its portrayal of ADX Montrose, using the Penitentiary of New Mexico in Santa Fe as a filming location to capture the essence of a high-security penitentiary. The choice of setting and the narrative arc of the series converge to present a compelling exploration of punishment, redemption, and the lingering echoes of past transgressions.

ADX Montrose, often dubbed the "Alcatraz of the Rockies," is situated approximately 100 miles south of Denver and 40 miles south of Colorado Springs. The geographical proximity of this fictional prison to its real-world counterpart adds another layer of authenticity to the show. The setting is essential to understanding the journey of the character, and how the world has been build up with his persona in mind. The finale, however, presents a complex interpretation of prison life, one that, while dramatic, diverges from the documented reality of the real ADX Florence.

Jimmy McGill's journey to ADX Montrose began with a confession to his crimes, an act that sealed his fate and delivered him to this formidable institution. The show explores why he was sent there and, critically, how he attempts to cope with the relentless demands of prison life. The series masterfully depicts the transition from the flashy, morally ambiguous Saul Goodman to the more introspective, yet still resourceful, Jimmy McGill. The audience is left to grapple with the intricacies of this transformation, and in doing so, questions the nature of justice, the value of remorse, and the possibility of genuine change.

The ADX Montrose as portrayed in "Better Call Saul" is a complex amalgamation of elements, some true to life and others clearly dramatized for effect. The series took the liberty of creating a setting, where prisoners have the ability to interact, at times holding assigned jobs and participating in recreational activities. However, in the actual operation of Supermax facilities, such activities are extremely limited or non-existent.

The final scene of the show gives a glimpse of a jumpsuit with the letters "BCDC" embroidered on it, representing the Bernalillo County Detention Center, the location of Albuquerque. Prior to his arrival, Jimmy had asked to avoid ADX Montrose in negotiations and, at times, he would refer to it as the "Alcatraz of the Rockies."

In the heart of the story, the show presents the concept of good behavior, or the ability to be transferred, an element also subject to dramatization. ADX Florence operates by a strict set of rules, and there are no perks like transferring prisoners for good behavior. The daily routine involves spending up to 23 hours a day inside a small cell, an experience designed to inflict sensory deprivation. The show, however, also shows him interacting with other prisoners and taking part in activities that wouldn't happen in a real Supermax facility.

The portrayal of ADX Montrose raises questions about the accuracy with which television series represent real-world institutions. While the series draws inspiration from ADX Florence, the dramatic license employed allows for character development, plot advancement, and the exploration of themes that might be muted in a more realistic depiction. The juxtaposition of fictional and actual elements contributes to the show's overall appeal, but also necessitates a critical understanding of its representation of prison life.

The story also reminds us of the main character, it is also essential to remember that Jimmy/Saul/Gene didn't always want to end up in ADX Montrose. It highlights the prison as a culmination of his personal journey and his criminal activities. Jimmy McGill is an important character and the circumstances of his imprisonment offer an opportunity to reflect on the significance of his choices and the lasting impacts they have on society.

The show also included a significant amount of the real world information and incorporated it into the script. In the world of "Better Call Saul," there are also infamous criminals housed in ADX Montrose. Names like Ted Kaczynski, El Chapo, the Boston Marathon bomber, and Terry Nichols are mentioned, emphasizing the prison's reputation as a repository for the most notorious offenders. The program successfully presents the grim reality of prison life.

The contrast between Saul Goodman's flamboyant personality and the harsh reality of ADX Montrose is a central element of the story. The contrast between the offices of Saul Goodman & Associates, with its flashy signage and memorable slogan, "Better Call Saul," and the confines of ADX Montrose is striking. The journey is a study in contrasts. Jimmy's shift to a life of solitude and restraint is a powerful metaphor for his internal transformations.

The finale of "Better Call Saul" received widespread acclaim. The performances were excellent, and the writing provided a satisfying closure to the characters. The character of Kim Wexler, brilliantly played by Rhea Seehorn, leaves ADX Montrose after visiting Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk). The show's exploration of the human condition leaves a lasting effect, and the final scenes are etched in the memories of fans. The portrayal of the prison environment, while not entirely consistent with reality, captures a sense of confinement and isolation that is characteristic of long prison sentences.

The visual of the entrance to the ADX supermax in Florence, Colorado, adds another layer of reality to the show. After checking in, it is the last time the individual has an opportunity to be above ground. This adds to the sense of isolation and restriction. The show also includes the mention of the country's highest security prison.

The story of ADX Montrose is not just a matter of prison conditions; it is also a case of criminal justice and the way individuals face the results of their choices. The journey of Jimmy McGill and the depiction of the prison reflect broader themes of responsibility, consequences, and the human capacity for resilience.

In contrast to the show's depiction, life in the real ADX Florence involves solitary confinement for up to 23 hours per day. There is no baking of bread in the kitchen or games of basketball, as shown on the series. The reality of ADX Florence is much harsher, defined by isolation and sensory deprivation, a reflection of its status as a supermax facility.

The portrayal of Jimmy McGill in the finale also reveals a side of him, with the character interacting with fellow inmates and maintaining a low profile. This underscores the contrast between the flamboyant lawyer and the stripped-down version. The decisions, the acts, and the prison life he faces are a testament to the consequences of his behavior.

The announcement of the sixth and final season of "Better Call Saul" on January 16, 2020, marked a significant event in the show's timeline. The season aired in two parts. Filming began in March 2021 and the final episodes were screened in 2022. The series offered a rich narrative that included a detailed exploration of the central character, and the impact of their choices.

The dramatic nature of the show allows it to present a compelling story, which attracts people with its intricate characters and storytelling. The depiction of ADX Montrose is more than simply a setting; it is a representation of the consequences of a criminal career and the end of a life. It is important to evaluate the narrative while remembering the real-world context, the show highlights human experience and makes us think about morality.

The convergence of the real and fictional within "Better Call Saul" and ADX Montrose creates an interesting viewing experience. The show is based on ADX Florence, which is known as the "Alcatraz of the Rockies," the institution is a key plot element and an avenue for examining the show's main character. The result is a captivating story about justice, regret, and the quest for atonement. The prison setting symbolizes the constraints, and it is important to reflect on the choices that have resulted in Jimmy's downfall. Ultimately, "Better Call Saul" makes an unforgettable contribution to television, and its depiction of ADX Montrose will continue to spark discussion.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	James "Jimmy" McGill (also known as Saul Goodman and Gene Takavic)
Alias	Saul Goodman, Gene Takavic
Date of Birth (Estimated)	1960s
Location of Practice	Albuquerque, New Mexico (primarily)
Profession	Attorney at Law, Con Artist (formerly)
Known For	Criminal defense attorney, involvement in various schemes, transformation from a small-time con artist to a successful (but morally compromised) lawyer.
Legal Affiliations	Saul Goodman & Associates
Notable Relationships	Kim Wexler (wife, formerly), Chuck McGill (brother)
Fate	Sentenced to ADX Montrose (maximum security prison)
Possible Release Date	December 2096 (earliest possible date)
Actor	Bob Odenkirk
Show	Better Call Saul
Based On	Real-life prison, ADX Florence
Additional Notes	Character's journey from a small-time con artist to a morally compromised attorney, and his subsequent imprisonment is the focal point of the series. The use of the fictional prison ADX Montrose highlights the consequences of his past actions.
Reference	Wikipedia - Better Call Saul

Details

ADX Montrose Prison Jacket BCS Zip Hoodie Unisex Screen Accurate Prop

Details

ADX Montrose Prison Jacket Better Call Saul Zip Hoodie Etsy

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Prof. Ova Schultz I
Username : casper.cordie
Email : jennie.mosciski@hotmail.com
Birthdate : 1987-07-19
Address : 146 Doris Loaf Fordfurt, SD 48910
Phone : +1 (980) 272-5441
Company : Schimmel LLC
Job : Shipping and Receiving Clerk
Bio : Consectetur maiores ut consequuntur qui. Quia tempore itaque aliquid autem voluptatem aspernatur ipsum. Est quo molestiae nihil doloremque laboriosam qui minus. Quis dolor qui recusandae.

Socials

facebook:

url : https://facebook.com/karl2723
username : karl2723
bio : Voluptate quos et cumque ipsam molestias.
followers : 3125
following : 2734

tiktok:

url : https://tiktok.com/@senger2020
username : senger2020
bio : Aut rerum et quos quod ad laboriosam. Aut sed saepe vel voluptatem repudiandae.
followers : 738
following : 1870

linkedin:

url : https://linkedin.com/in/karl6778
username : karl6778
bio : Et unde molestias nesciunt beatae libero.
followers : 1396
following : 1734

twitter:

url : https://twitter.com/sengerk
username : sengerk
bio : Corporis qui beatae blanditiis. Et dolores quos magnam. Quisquam fugit quod labore maiores et dolores. Quasi consequuntur dolorem at quia iusto ad.
followers : 1686
following : 869