I think the Sorpranos is a classic postmodern drama. Plots are seemingly left unresolved (e.g. Melfi’s rape, Meadow’s mad roommate) because Chase is not interested in resolving them. They served a purpose in a particular episode. Episodes do not necessarily form a common linear pattern, there are ideas floating around granted but two consecutive episodes are usually very different for the most part. In some episodes, very little happens and endings do not grip you for the next episode - because Chase is steering away for that type of common adrenaline doused orgies that drama series are ‘meant to have’. That said, he will throw them in at random points, not to satisfy the pleasure requirement of the audience, but more because it suits the characters at that time.
So not only did Chase break the mould with the notion of what appears on TV, he also produced something which can stand toe to toe with any artistic representation of America by doing it in an ‘arty’ way. It is still groundbreaking even considering the shows that came after it, especially the rather straightforward, linear, modernist Breaking Bad.
Very well put and that’s exactly it - as i said previously, the Mafia part is only a back drop that is brought in to ramp up some drama and action. The show is about a lot of very real life things that we dont often dwell on - the intricacies of relationships and what makes a person tick. The whole show is about the human condition and the weakness of humans- every single character, even the highly educated psychologist, is flawed. The beauty of the show isnt the violence or mafia plot… It’s the little looks, the very small comments or stuff hinted at. If lads are looking for action and baseless drama it’s really not that kind of show…
Is it the last episode of season 4 where Tony and Carmella have an epic argument and he punches the wall beside her head. One of the greatest scenes of acting on tv ever I’d say. The scene goes on for ages. Really need to watch the whole thing again. You one child parents don’t know how handy you have it!!
Exactly- Puzo says himself the Godfather was a story about a family and how its business shaped their interactions, environment and life choices. It was ultimately about a family.
I wouldn’t have watched the movies 100 times in College if they ran a Bank however.
The magic of the show is you keep forgetting how much of an utter cunt Tony is — he’s the most self obsessed, narcissistic cunt in the show …
There’s an unreal scene that i’m not sure if you’ve seen yet so i’ll not go into it too much … But Janice is actually happy and looks to have sorted some of her issues — Not on Tony’s watch tho.
