The Sopranos (1999)

About The Sopranos

The Sopranos is a renowned American crime drama television series created by David Chase. The series primarily revolves around New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano portrayed by James Gandolfini, which aired on HBO from 1999 to 2007. The series sketches Tony's complicated life trying to balance family duties and leading a criminal organisation. This dichotomy is often showcased with his requirement of therapy sessions.

Making / Production

Created by David Chase, The Sopranos was shot on location in New Jersey and New York. It was produced by HBO in association with Brad Grey Television. The show is known for its innovative style, complex characters, and intricate storylines which focused on both the personal life and criminal activities of its main characters.

Actors

• James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano: He delivers an iconic performance as a mob boss wrestling with personal and professional challenges.
• Edie Falco as Carmela Soprano: She impeccably portrays the role of Tony's wife, who battles between moral struggles and love for her husband.
• Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti: He plays Tony's ambitious yet hot-tempered nephew.
• Lorraine Bracco as Dr. Jennifer Melfi: As Tony's psychiatrist, her character brings an introspective depth to the show.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show is often regarded as one of several cable television series that led to the "Golden Age of Television."
• The character of Tony Soprano is supposedly based on real-life New Jersey mobster Vincent "Vinny Ocean" Palermo.
• The series was the first cable show to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series.

Awards

The Sopranos garnered critical acclaim throughout its six seasons, winning numerous awards. The show won 21 Primetime Emmy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, and two Peabody Awards. It was named the best-written TV series of all time by the Writers Guild of America.

Quotes

• "I'm like King Midas in reverse. Everything I touch turns to shit."
• "Sometimes I go about in pity for myself, and all the while a great wind carries me across the sky."

Music, Soundtrack

• The show's opening theme, "Woke Up This Morning", was performed by the British band Alabama 3.
• The series is known for its eclectic mix of music selections including classic rock, doo-wop, jazz, and Italian traditional music.