I finally saw an episode of the Sopranos last night, and I have to wonder just what everybody is so nuts about. I’m just glad I wasn’t building up my expectations for 2 years before seeing that hour of “drama.” HBO must be content with their cadre of loyal viewers and don’t care about winning new ones.
My complaints?
- I called Tony getting shot by his senile uncle, who moonlights as Six Flags’ mascot, the moment he walked in to his darkened living room.
- The subplot with the bookie wanting out, and having a junkie son, felt really forced. Throwing the candy dish at the wall? That belongs on an after school special, not premium cable.
- Can you really just walk into KFC, shoot someone and drive home wihtout cops finding out? If so, I think we have to reevaluate our concept of national security.
I realize criticizing the Sopranos will probably result in a hit being put out on me, but somebody needs to take a stand.
I didn’t realize I had never been here before, but I do think this is my first time.
I think most of these dramatic shows, particularly on HBO, benefit a lot from an investment in the previous episodes/seasons. Sopranos is the only television I watch, until the Mets start up again, and I considered dumping them before reading all the rave reviews. “living with” and “knowing” the characters is the essential ingredient for max enjoyment.
The KFC point is a good one. The others are more “to each his own” …
I’ll be intrigued to see if you actually last the week. good luck.
That was sort of my point. The show is clearly resting on it’s laurels at this point. It’s a staple for so many people, they’re not trying to get new viewers. A show like 24, which I’m not really a fan of either, mixes it up enough each year to attract new people, though.