The Sopranos Show

Did we like? Did we not? What stood out? What did we want? All these questions will be answered.

The trailer for the Sopranos movie has dropped! Gavin and Hannibal do their thing.

Gavin and Hannibal share their all time favorite lines of Sopranos dialogue, in a special bonus episode of ‘The Sopranos Show!’ Going season by season, your hosts break down the reasons for their picks, and relive some of the series’ greatest moments.

The series finale of The Sopranos keeps things pretty simple... until it doesn’t. Gavin and Hannibal (and Maureen Van Zandt) explain what they think did or did not happen in the diner and why. Though ‘Made in America’ is the final episode of The Sopranos, this is probably not the final episode of ‘The Sopranos Show.’ There’s a movie coming in September 2020 after all! Until then, Don’t Stop-

Gavin and Hannibal agree that ‘The Blue Comet’ truly is the ‘ultimate penultimate’ Sopranos story. Your hosts discuss the deeply troubling yet decisive showdown between Tony and Melfi, Baccala’s operatic and unforgettable final scene, and the many ways in which the episode perfectly positions all characters to play (or not play), a unique and impactful role in the series finale.

With just a couple episodes until the end of the series, things are getting emotionally apocalyptic on The Sopranos. Gavin and Hannibal talk Livia callbacks, gut wrenching suicide attempts, and the guilty pleasures of watching a well earned curb stomping. ‘The Second Coming’ dramatically ups the stakes for the final season, with Gandolfini and Iler in particular, delivering deeply moving performances.

With ‘Kennedy and Heidi,’ the makers of The Sopranos pull off one of the most shocking and memorable major character death scenes ever devised for television. Gavin and Hannibal explain what makes the scene in question quintessential ‘David Chase,’ and how the episode as a whole offers rich insight into the Tony and Christopher dynamic (especially as it relates to Adriana), as well as the fully justifiable reasons for AJ’s descent into true despair.

Writer Terence Winter directs his first and only episode of ‘The Sopranos,’ further proving why he’s one of the series’ greatest storytellers. Gavin and Hannibal consider ‘Walk Like a Man’ to be yet another masterful final season episode. The highly emotional Melfi session, the arcs of Chris and A.J, and J.T. Dolan’s climactic scene, are just a few of the memorable and surprising highlights.

As far as Gavin and Hannibal are concerned, this is maybe the weirdest episode of The Sopranos ever. Not bad... just weird. Your hosts explain how odd it is that the filmmakers for one episode only, decided to go fully handheld with the camera, resulting in lens and composition choices that are pretty jarring. Plus, Tony suddenly is a frothing at the mouth, out of control, degenerate gambler? Though ‘Chasing It’ definitely has its strengths, it’s not hard to see why it’s the least loved chapter of Season 6B.

This is the second Season 6B episode in a row that makes use of a single, overriding, theme to an all encompassing and ultimately tragic effect. ‘Remember When’ is about the pain of the past. Gavin and Hannibal note how that theme is woven into the arc of Junior’s ill-fated new friendship, as well as Tony and Paulie’s trip to Miami, and down memory lane.

Gavin and Hannibal bid a fond farewell to Johnny Sack in their discussion of the magnificent ‘Stage 5.’ Your hosts agree that everything about this episode works: from Vincent Curatola’s beautiful performance, to the surprisingly consequential fallout of the ‘Cleaver’ screening, to the story’s thematic statements on the downsides of being a leader. ‘Stage 5’ is another great script from Terence Winter, with high levels of comedy and drama, providing a prime example of ‘The Sopranos’ doing what it does best.

Gavin and Hannibal arrive at the beginning of the end! ‘Soprano Home Movies’ is one of the greats, blending flashbacks, callbacks, bad karaoke, and the most unexpected fist fight of all time, from a script that would make Edward Albee proud. Your hosts examine the ways in which Livia manages to haunt this episode, and the events that compel Tony to take what is arguably his darkest act of vengeance yet.

Once you realize what the title of this episode references, it’s hard not to see it as the funniest title of the series. Gavin and Hannibal wrap up Season 6A with a discussion that touches upon the successes and failures of the season overall, the plausibility of AJ’s new romance, and why Tony’s “every day is a gift” philosophy is difficult to maintain when one is part of the mob.

‘Cold Stones’ is a fitting penultimate chapter for Season 6A which is both great, and at times, not so great. Gavin and Hannibal explain what makes the traditional late season main character death not all that surprising, and dig into the intriguing subtext of Carmela’s Paris trip. Your hosts also discuss Phil’s terrifying wife, Tony ‘back in black,’ and the right and wrong time to point out production goofs.

Moe n’ Joe has Gavin n’ Hannibal confused about a couple things... like the meaning of the title itself, or what Jim sees in Vito. Still, the episode has its high points: Chris’ sole scene is hilarious, Melfi does a great job leading Tony to an important epiphany about Janice, and a snowy murder towards the end channels ‘Fargo’ in all the right ways. Your hosts also discuss the latest news out of ‘Newark.’

There are many rides in ‘The Ride,’ both literal and metaphorical. Gavin and Hannibal examine Chris’ reasons for falling off the wagon yet again, Tony’s war against boredom, and the events that push Paulie to look deep into himself as never before. Plus Gavin explains why he now views this episode more favorably than he did in the past, and your hosts discuss why many fans (themselves included) tend to have issues with Season 6A.

Your hosts have mixed feelings about ‘Johnny Cakes.’ On one hand it contains profound and powerful scenes that rank amongst the series’ best. On the other hand, are several scenes so cliche ridden and implausible, they’re unintentionally hilarious. Gavin and Hannibal discuss the unsavory nature of Julianna Skiff, AJ’s sad and misguided attempts to live up to the family name, and how Jim could ever question whether or not Vito wants the tall stack.

Gavin and Hannibal agree that ‘Luxury Lounge’ ranks very high on the ‘funniest Sopranos episodes’ list. It makes hilarious use of cameos (‘Sir Ben’ Kingsley, ‘Betty’ Bacall) to lampoon Hollywood culture, and does a great job updating dilemmas previously established in Seasons 2 & 4. Plus, Gavin points out that Tony, for the first time, correctly deploys the Ojibwe saying, and Hannibal defends his love of Charmaine Bucco from unjust attacks!

Gavin and Hannibal can’t quite figure out how a Chase-Winter-Green-Burgess script directed by Tim Van Patten, winds up being one of the more mediocre Sopranos episodes, but they have some theories. Though ‘Live Free or Die’ just never quite comes together, your hosts single out the quality moments of humor that keep it entertaining.

In honor of this nuptially inclined episode, Gavin and Hannibal grapple with the age old question; when is it ok for a grown man to cry? From Johnny Sack’s tears, to Vito’s outing, to Tony’s fear of being thought weak, mob society’s rigid definition of masculinity presents major dilemmas for the main men of “Mr. and Mrs. John Sacrimoni Request...” Your hosts also explain why they agree with Johnny when he calls the Feds “heartless pricks,” and decode the thought process that leads Tony to make an example of Perry.

Though this episode has its faults, (one too many philosophical discussions, an implausible Bobby Baccala subplot), Gavin and Hannibal agree that Tony Sirico is in top form, impressively revealing a vulnerable new side of Paulie Walnuts. Your hosts also point out how ‘The Fleshy Part of the Thigh’ links to an episode from the first season (with some improvements), and comment on how this story painfully teaches several of its central characters that life just isn’t fair.

The intentionally misspelled title is a hint that this laugh filled episode is a wild ride. Gavin and Hannibal point out what makes the explosive ‘Scarface’ style opening such an entertaining change of pace, and describe how this relatively Tony-light story depicts what the show might have been like without James Gandolfini. Plus Maureen Van Zandt (Gabriella Dante) returns! ‘Mayham’ shows us the Dantes as we’ve never seen them before, and Mrs. Van Zandt shares her perspective on shooting scenes with her husband, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the premiere, and the upcoming Sopranos movie.

Gavin and Hannibal join Tony in “Finnertyland,” discussing an episode that propels The Sopranos to dramatic new heights of symbolism and poignancy. Your hosts focus on the not-exactly-a-dream sequence that gives James Gandolfini the opportunity to portray a Clark Kent version of Tony journeying through a purgatory-like plane of reality. Also of note, is a definitive performance by Edie Falco, which features the delivery of an unforgettable monologue, sensitively crafted by David Chase.

The premiere of Season Six throws a LOT at the audience and climaxes with one of the most shocking moments in series history. It can’t be a surprise then, that it takes Gavin and Hannibal nearly 90 minutes to unpack it all. Your hosts hone in on the themes of health, aging and misplaced trust that dominate this episode, and describe how it places Tony and Carmela in a position to embark on journeys more complex and dangerous than ever before.

Gavin and Hannibal agree that ‘All Due Respect’ is a fitting and fulfilling conclusion to Season 5. This finale manages to do an incredible job of bringing Season 5 full circle, and in typically understated fashion, sets up the climactic seasons to come. Your hosts describe how this episode presents a fresh examination of Tony’s role as a leader, as well as a couple surprising twists, and the establishment of a potential new Mafia supervillain.

Gavin and Hannibal work their way through an episode that no true ‘Sopranos’ fan will ever forget. This is the one where they get back together. This is the one where a new King of New York is crowned. This is the one where she dies. This is ‘Long Term Parking,’ and it’s the ultimate penultimate season chapter. Your hosts break down the rapid fire plot developments that lead to Chris and Ade’s moment of truth, and how that moment is a conclusive statement on our main characters’ twisted pursuit of the American dream.

Dream analysis is always tricky, especially in “The Test Dream” - one of the more experimental episodes of “The Sopranos” ever produced. Gavin and Hannibal do their best to identify and explain the many symbols, cameos and references that make this story such a trippy and meta journey into Tony’s subconscious.

‘Cold Cuts’ is an unnerving exploration of how little things change over time. Gavin and Hannibal cover an episode that presents Tony at his most unlikable, and note the unexpected sympathy felt towards the traditionally unlikable Chris and Janice. Also explored: the occasionally unorthodox directorial choices of Mike Figgis, and the perils of recording a podcast after the consumption of several margaritas... Happy Holidays from ‘The Sopranos Show!’

When writers Matthew Weiner and Terence Winter join forces, the outcome is about as monumental as you’d expect. Gavin and Hannibal unpack the revelatory ‘Unidentified Black Males.’ This episode is filled with shocking developments, social commentary, the most powerful Tony-Melfi scene yet, and yes, a lot of Meadow and Finn... but it all works! The result is one of the true highlights not just of Season 5, but the whole series.

‘Marco Polo’ is the last of five scripts Michael Imperioli wrote for ‘The Sopranos,’ and he definitely ends his run on a high note. Gavin and Hannibal examine the factors that push Tony B past the point of no return, and Carmela and Tony S into the pool. Plus your hosts point out how this great story gives Gandolfini, Falco and Buscemi ample opportunity to display subtle new dimensions of their characters.

The past looms large ‘In Camelot.’ Gavin and Hannibal focus on Tony’s inability to forgive Livia, and Chris’ Tony-like Scorpion-Frog dynamic with a civilian. Featuring the creepiest rendition of ‘Happy Birthday Mr. President’ ever performed, and the most deaths of any Sopranos episode ever (*really), ‘In Camelot’ is another Steve Buscemi directed tour de force.

It’s another special episode of ‘The Sopranos Show!’ Gavin and Hannibal have a fascinating chat about all things Sopranos with Allen Coulter, director of such legendary episodes as ‘College,’ ‘The Night in White Satin Armor,’ and many more! Plus your hosts delve into ‘Sentimental Education’ which takes Carmela and Tony B on tragic yet thematically linked journeys. Gavin and Hannibal address the episode’s fable like qualities, and how it manages to quietly shift Season 5 into a whole new gear.

It’s easy to see why this one got both Michael Imperioli and Drea de Matteo Emmys. Writers Robin Green and Mitchell Burgess also shine with their first contribution to Season 5, the extremely intense, ‘Irregular Around the Margins.’ Gavin and Hannibal explain what makes this episode ‘irregular’ (from a storytelling point of view) and shocking (though in a very plausible way). Plus Gavin shares his spot on Steve Buscemi impersonation, and your hosts announce their next ‘The Sopranos Show’ guest!

‘All Happy Families...’ continues Season 5’s streak of near perfection. Gavin and Hannibal talk popularity contests, AJ at his worst, and share a ‘conspiracy theory’ about actor Robert Loggia. Also discussed is what The Sopranos has in common with other huge series like ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Lost,’ and this episode’s important parallels with Season 2.

Uncle Junior takes center stage in this, funny, tragic, and unexpectedly moving episode. Gavin and Hannibal spot the key callback to the series pilot and examine its outsized impact on Tony. Also discussed? Paulie’s hilarious application of ‘The Art of War,’ the trouble with having Janice as a stepmom, and the shortcomings of ‘New Barb.’

There are many ways to interpret the title of this episode, which focuses on the many rats employed by the Feds, to bring Tony down. Gavin and Hannibal discuss the series acting debut of Sopranos directing vet Steve Buscemi, and the highly emotional way his character, Tony B, seems to affect Tony. Plus your hosts contrast Adriana’s deep soul searching with Ray Curto’s hilarious nonchalance, and settle on the definitive pronunciation of ‘Soprano.’

‘Two Tonys’ arrived in 2004 after an extremely lengthy hiatus following the Season 4 finale. The creators of the show ensured the wait was worth it with an episode that wastes no time setting very high stakes. Gavin and Hannibal explore Tony’s difficulties with facing rejection, the evolution of Christopher Moltisanti, and the symbolic significance of the bear in the back yard.

Today, Gavin and Hannibal host a truly special episode of The Sopranos Show, in which they interview former Sopranos staff writer and executive producer, Frank Renzulli! Frank is responsible for penning some of the greatest episodes from the first three seasons including ‘Nobody Knows Anything,’ ‘The Happy Wanderer,’ and ‘Amour Fou.’ In a conversation that covers all aspects of the making of the series, Frank details what it was like to grow up surrounded by real wiseguys, and how this informed characters and scenes in the show. Plus he recalls the hilarious experience of meeting David Chase for the first time, and highlights the invaluable contributions of the show’s actors. A huge thanks to Frank for joining us today, and Gavin and Hannibal will be back next week to cover the premiere of Season 5!

‘Whitecaps’ is the longest episode of The Sopranos. Is it the greatest episode of the series up to this point? Probably. Gavin and Hannibal focus on James Gandolfini and Edie Falco, whose Emmy winning performances in this Season 4 finale, raise the bar for what can be achieved in the medium of television. ‘Whitecaps’ also displays once again, the writers’ sophisticated understanding of psychology and mastery of storytelling. Plot points quietly set up throughout the season are decisively paid off in this episode, resulting in an epic climax that delivers on all levels.

Gavin and Hannibal interpret this episode as a story of heartbreak... and its consequences. Carmela without warning loses the love of someone very close, and Paulie unexpectedly finds that a friendship he depended on isn’t quite what he thought it was. Your hosts call attention to the many funny, suspenseful and even tragic moments that define another typically strong script from Terence Winter. ‘Eloise’ is special for delivering the traditional penultimate episode of the season fireworks... but in a much quieter and menacing way than usual.

‘Calling All Cars’ is bookended with ominous dream sequences that suggest Tony is in greater danger than he knows. Gavin and Hannibal examine the symbols in this tension heavy, occasionally hilarious, and somewhat spooky episode. Plus your hosts explain why this is the worst time for Tony to quit therapy, and question whether the ends justify the means, when it comes to Janice’s aggressive pursuit of Bobby.

It’s not easy to be “the strong, silent type” if you’re Tony, Christopher or Furio. Gavin and Hannibal address Tony’s emotionally complex dynamic with cute animals, Chris at rock bottom, and Furio’s increasingly risky forbidden love. Plus your hosts get caught up in the logistics of one legged sex, identify their favorite props from the series, and arrive at the first Sopranos storyline that Hannibal just doesn’t understand.

‘Whoever Did This’ is one of the best episodes The Sopranos ever did. Of course, Gavin and Hannibal spend much of their time praising Joe Pantoliano’s Emmy winning performance, which convincingly reveals a side of Ralph Cifaretto never before displayed. Plus, Burgess and Green’s flawless script delivers surprises large and small, culminating in some of the most unanticipated and graphic violence the series has ever depicted. Ultimately, a fitting and unforgettable exit for one of the series’ most memorable characters, in a story that still has the power to shock, years after its initial airing.

‘Mergers and Acquisitions’ is a great example of how The Sopranos often finds hilarity in unexpected places. The various funny dilemmas in this episode keep Gavin and Hannibal laughing - from Paulie’s response to senior citizen bullying, to Tony’s investigation of Ralphie’s sex life in the hopes of finding a way to rationalize cuckolding his capo. Plus, your hosts parse the nuances of an amusing and masterful final scene that says everything that can be said about the state of Tony and Carmela’s marriage, and the price of infidelity.

Gavin and Hannibal tackle ‘Watching Too Much Television,’ discussing the desperation that leads Adriana to fast track her marriage for all the wrong reasons, and the unexpected emotional fallout that results when Tony and his business partners join forces on what should be a straightforward real estate scam. This episode emphasizes the costs of doing business with Tony, and forever leaves your hosts unable to think of The Chi Lites’ ‘Oh Girl,’ without also thinking of Tony’s belt...

Michael Imperioli once again pulls double duty, delivering what Gavin and Hannibal agree, is his best Sopranos script yet. In this episode, Tony, Artie, AJ and Carmela have plenty to be “hurt” about, and your hosts delve into the various sources of their pain. This story has a lot to say about income inequality (in unexpected places), guilt motivated altruism, and the toxicity of the mob world. Plus, it features a very young Paul Dano in a small but memorable role!

Today, we literally interrupt your regularly scheduled The Sopranos Show to bring you Gavin and Hannibal’s quick chat with Maureen Van Zandt, who portrayed Silvio Dante’s wife Gabriella! A huge thank you to Mrs. Van Zandt for a fun, and fascinating glimpse into the making of The Sopranos, and her role in it. Of course, your hosts also delve into this week’s episode ‘Pie-O-My’ discussing the truly great work done by James Gandolfini and Joe Pantoliano, who memorably find the tension in their characters’ friendship rise over a horse, and Drea De Matteo, who gives us an emotional look at what it’s like to be torn between two sides.

Gavin and Hannibal view ‘The Weight’ as a highly entertaining return to the urgent and emotional high stakes storytelling that makes The Sopranos what it is. Terence Winter’s script convincingly depicts how the fallout from a single mean joke can escalate to a near bloodbath, while giving Vincent Curatola the opportunity to take full ownership of the character Johnny Sack, with a performance that is both chilling and sympathetic.

‘Christopher,’ is the widely agreed upon fan ‘least favorite,’ of the series. Gavin and Hannibal attempt to get to the root of just what exactly went wrong here. Low dramatic stakes, a misleading title, and a few too many cheesy jokes make ‘Christopher’ infamous, though it’s not a complete loss! This third installment of the season is redeemed at times with laugh out loud moments and politically relevant cultural observations.

Gavin and Hannibal examine the many well written and acted confrontations of “No Show,” an episode which culminates in one of the more powerful scenes ever performed between James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, and Jamie-Lynn Sigler. Your hosts also discuss the implications of the choices made by Silvio, Christopher, Adriana and Paulie in this episode, and how they may or may not prove to have major consequences for all involved, as Season 4 continues to unfold.

“Everything comes to an end,” Carmela declares in the fourth season premiere of The Sopranos. Gavin and Hannibal discuss the weighty implications of that statement, as well as the episode’s gripping focus on security and vengeance, in a post 9/11 America. Your hosts also delve into the chillingly ambiguous event that cements Tony and Christopher’s bond, and the far less chilling but hotly debatable riddle of the Icelandic Air Flight Attendants...