I haven't even seen season 5. I think the show is well acted, but there are a few characters that annoy me on the show. The son bothers me. It doesn't seem like he's essential, at least not through season 4.
He is essential. He is the reason that Walter does everything that he does. Walter Jr. (as all sons are) is a direct reflection of his father. Without him, Walt a) wouldn't have nearly as strong a motivation for doing what he does, and b) would completely lack any kind of moral compass (although based on seasons 4 and 5, I would say that's probably completely gone by now).
And yes, he is the motivation for everything Walter does, or at least that is how it started out.Walter Jr. (as all sons are) is a direct reflection of his father.
Well said. He's literally a reflection. He's good, like Walter once was but he's also broken, like Walter is. Hell, his name is Walter Jr. how much more apparent could they make this bond?