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The Curse of the Sopranos
The Curse of the Sopranos
Most everyone has seen the Soprano’s, one of the greatest television shows ever. I was a late comer to the Sopranos when it started in 1999. I was working nights and didn’t have HBO. My sister in New York would call me and tell me about this new mafia comedy set in New Jersey. Of course I knew Jersey mobsters growing up, they differed from New York mobsters. Now, rasicm comes in all shapes and sizes. I was writing for a local newspaper and I was the food and wine editor. Some other writers, who studied journalism were on the staff. They never paid me any mind until the Sopranos, each Monday morning when the discussions should have been about current events, turned to discussions about the TV show, which I had never seen. Always asking me what do this mean, or what does that mean. One question which took me a while to figure out was, what does, “Maname?” I would answer I don’t know what you mean. Then one day I figured it out, “Madonna Mia.” Mother Mary or my mother was the answer.
My sister would still call and ask if I saw the show. I still never saw it. Yes, I am a New York Italian. Not all of us were in the mafia. If you want to piss off and Italian, put ice in your wine, and ask him about the mafia. We all knew who they were growing up. Suddenly, I was looked at as a once member. I tried to dispel this theory, but to now avail.
My sister would call and say have you seen the show and finally I did. It’s a friggin comedy! And the funny part all the ‘boys’ were comics in real life. I remember drinking with Ralph Gigante and he made me pee my pants. I recall when I was treated unfairly in a neighborhood business deal Ralpie spoke on my behalf. He said watch this, we walked into the shop of the unfair person took one look at Ralpie, “The Beast.” and cowarded on the floor pleading, “don’t tell Vinny, please!” The intimidation was a comedy act, like the Sopranos.
I was really perceived as a New Jersey mobster, I would say, “I’m from New York ,” it didn’t make a difference. Fast forward to 2008, I return to New York armed with incomparable wine knowledge. No New York restaurant would hire me, I was too New York and represented the mob. This was difficult to overcome. I was home and I didn’t fit in. Fast forward once again to 2022. My financial advisor shows up at my home one afternoon with real bad news. The first thing he says is, “don’t hit me, but I lose 20 percent of your investment, “please don’t hit!” What the fuck! I think, he’s watching too many Soprano shows. Yes, I am intimidating, I’m big with broken fingers from boxing, and I’m Italian! Now I get it! Okay lets fast forward one more time to 2023. My wife and I at the deli counter ordering cold cuts, that’s what we call them,not sandwich meat, cold cuts. I ask the deli man for a half pond of capicola. My wife asks what’s that, and I answer ‘gabbagoul.” Looking shocked she says, “that’s what Tony Soprano eats!”
The problem with racism is that the book IS judged my its color. Some parts may be true. One time my daughter was having a problem with a guy she worked with in California. Me living in Florida told her, “you know I’ll be on the next flight out, just to talk to him.” And I add, “tell him where I was born and show him a picture and ask him, “do you what to meet my dad?”
The guy never bothered her again. My own daughter was scared of my appearance, but she knew better, she knew me.
Please don’t fear me, and please don’t piss me off.
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2 Replies
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Hands down, The Sopranos mini-series is the best show I have seen in my life and nothing else comes in second. Back in May 2027, my father in law was dying in central Wisconsin. My wife and all my animals headed up there and stayed there four months until he passed. He had no cable so we took our DVD player and a bunch of DVDs. Among them was the entire mini-series of the Sopranos. I seen every episode at least twice. The problem with the Sopranos mini-series was addicting. Once one DVD was over I had to put on the next series. I was glued to the Sopranos. I am planning on seeing the entire mini-series again but I am afraid I am not able to do anything else but watch the next series after next. From the research I did, there hasn’t been an official Sopranos mini-series released. However, there has been significant interest in expanding the “Sopranos” universe, especially following the success of the original series and the prequel film.
The Sopranos: Background
- Original Series: “The Sopranos” is an American crime drama television series created by David Chase that aired from 1999 to 2007. It follows the life of mob boss Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini, as he tries to balance the demands of his crime family with those of his personal life.
The Many Saints of Newark
- Prequel Film: “The Many Saints of Newark” is a prequel film to “The Sopranos,” released in 2021. It explores the earlier life of Tony Soprano and the influences that shaped him. The film is set in the 1960s and 1970s, during the Newark riots, and focuses on the relationship between a young Tony Soprano and his uncle, Dickie Moltisanti.
Potential Spin-offs and Mini-Series
- Interest and Rumors: Given the enduring popularity of “The Sopranos” and the success of “The Many Saints of Newark,” there have been discussions and rumors about potential spin-offs, sequels, or mini-series. David Chase and HBO have expressed interest in exploring more stories within the “Sopranos” universe, though no official projects have been announced.
What Fans Can Expect
- Expanded Universe: If a mini-series or additional spin-offs were to be produced, they might explore different characters, timelines, or events within the Sopranos’ world, providing deeper insights into the characters and the mob culture depicted in the original series.
For the most up-to-date information, keep an eye on announcements from HBO and official statements from creators and producers involved with “The Sopranos.”
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“The Sopranos” is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time. It has left a lasting impact on popular culture and television storytelling. Here are some of the best aspects of “The Sopranos,” including memorable episodes, characters, and moments:
Memorable Episodes
- “Pilot” (Season 1, Episode 1): The episode that started it all, introducing Tony Soprano and his complicated life.
- “College” (Season 1, Episode 5): Tony takes his daughter Meadow on a college tour while also tracking down a former mobster turned informant.
- “Pine Barrens” (Season 3, Episode 11): Christopher and Paulie get lost in the woods after a hit goes wrong, leading to one of the most iconic and darkly comedic episodes.
- “Whitecaps” (Season 4, Episode 13): Tony and Carmela’s marriage reaches a breaking point in this intense and emotional season finale.
- “Long Term Parking” (Season 5, Episode 12): Adriana’s fate is sealed in one of the most heartbreaking and shocking episodes.
- “Made in America” (Season 6, Episode 21): The series finale, known for its ambiguous and controversial ending.
Iconic Characters
- Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini): The complex mob boss struggling with mental health issues and family dynamics.
- Carmela Soprano (Edie Falco): Tony’s loyal yet conflicted wife, who grapples with the moral implications of her husband’s life.
- Dr. Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco): Tony’s psychiatrist, who provides insight into his psyche and personal struggles.
- Christopher Moltisanti (Michael Imperioli): Tony’s protégé and nephew, whose ambition and addiction create ongoing turmoil.
- Paulie Walnuts (Tony Sirico): A loyal but unpredictable soldier in Tony’s crew, known for his eccentric personality and humor.
- Silvio Dante (Steven Van Zandt): Tony’s consigliere, known for his level-headedness and loyalty.
- Meadow and AJ Soprano (Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iler): Tony and Carmela’s children, who each deal with their father’s criminal life in different ways.
Key Themes and Moments
- Mental Health: Tony’s therapy sessions with Dr. Melfi explore themes of mental health, depression, and the impact of trauma.
- Family Dynamics: The show delves into the complexities of the Soprano family, balancing traditional family values with the violence and criminal activities of Tony’s mob life.
- Power and Loyalty: The series examines the power dynamics within the mob and the importance of loyalty and betrayal.
- Morality and Consequences: Characters often face moral dilemmas and the consequences of their actions, adding depth to the narrative.
- Cultural Impact: “The Sopranos” influenced subsequent television dramas with its character-driven storytelling, anti-hero protagonist, and blending of dark humor with serious themes.
Legacy
“The Sopranos” set a new standard for television storytelling, with its complex characters, intricate plots, and willingness to tackle difficult subjects. It remains a touchstone in the evolution of modern television dramas, influencing countless shows that followed.
Rewatching “The Sopranos” reveals new layers and nuances, making it a show that continues to resonate with audiences years after its original airing.