Tony considers whether or not to help Janice and Bobby, whilst aspects of Vito's life in Dartford lose their appeal.
This is a strong reflective character episode with some standout moments.
Compared to the usual impact of an episode of 'The Sopranos' this one for me is not quite as engaging. I didn't find Tony's backstory and dilemma with Janice as interesting as his other hang ups. I think his feelings toward her are clear from previous episodes so this felt like it was going through the motions to get to his outburst with Dr Melfi. Although they are very good motions and entertainingly written and performed as always. Aida Turturro in particular is on hilariously good form.
The plot involving Vito, whether it be a total fantasy or intended to be reality, I find hit and miss for me. I like the scenes eluding to Vito's struggle with the "regularness" of life and all the underlying themes where numerous characters seem to resent real working class life. However, the love scenes involving Jim are not particularly well written. For me, a screen couple either have to go through something meaningful together or have spectacularly good chemistry before I accept they are in love, but I think these two characters are in love because the writers say so and not much else. On the other hand, the "regularness" of life could be purposely depicted as lacking any genuine excitement.
Visually it is a strong episode with some great humour, especially in the 'North By Northwest' tribute scene transition.
Vincent Curatola is excellent once again as Johnny Sac. I think he could have carried a spin off show for the character if David Chase ever had the inclination.
This is a strong reflective character episode with some standout moments.
Compared to the usual impact of an episode of 'The Sopranos' this one for me is not quite as engaging. I didn't find Tony's backstory and dilemma with Janice as interesting as his other hang ups. I think his feelings toward her are clear from previous episodes so this felt like it was going through the motions to get to his outburst with Dr Melfi. Although they are very good motions and entertainingly written and performed as always. Aida Turturro in particular is on hilariously good form.
The plot involving Vito, whether it be a total fantasy or intended to be reality, I find hit and miss for me. I like the scenes eluding to Vito's struggle with the "regularness" of life and all the underlying themes where numerous characters seem to resent real working class life. However, the love scenes involving Jim are not particularly well written. For me, a screen couple either have to go through something meaningful together or have spectacularly good chemistry before I accept they are in love, but I think these two characters are in love because the writers say so and not much else. On the other hand, the "regularness" of life could be purposely depicted as lacking any genuine excitement.
Visually it is a strong episode with some great humour, especially in the 'North By Northwest' tribute scene transition.
Vincent Curatola is excellent once again as Johnny Sac. I think he could have carried a spin off show for the character if David Chase ever had the inclination.