S2:E5 - Big Girls Don't Cry
It’s debatable which character the title refers to and Chris’ acting subplot unfortunately prompts Gavin to relive unhappy memories of drama classes past. Still, this episode is another great one, filled with classic moments of rage, violence and tears. It also marks The Sopranos scripting debut of Hannibal’s favorite series staff writer, Terence Winter!
Tony gives an A for durability.
S2:E4 - Commendatori
Gavin and Hannibal travel to Italy with Tony, discussing “Commendatori’s” core themes of disappointment, culture shock and female empowerment. Things get lively as your hosts debate potential phallic symbolism (in shrimp) and Tony’s satisfaction (or lack thereof) with the trip’s outcome.
S2:E3 - Toodle-F**king-Oo
It’s funny how a new character can alter the overall character of an entire series. The introduction of Richie Aprile presents Gavin and Hannibal with much to discuss as they analyze what makes him so extraordinarily terrifying. They also address Meadow’s powers of manipulation and of course, whether or not “toodle-oo” is an acceptable form of “goodbye.”
S2:E2 - Do Not Resuscitate
This might be a relatively quiet episode, but it’s bookended by two pretty significant twists. Gavin and Hannibal discuss the ramifications of those twists, while also taking time to applaud the introduction of the great Steve Schirripa, the handling of Tony and Junior’s reconciliation, and the clever scenes that showcase Livia’s return to the top of her game.
S2:E1 - Guy Walks Into a Psychiatrist's Office
Gavin and Hannibal weigh in on the memorable new characters and dilemmas introduced in the Season 2 premiere! Though decidedly less intense than the finale which preceded it, this key episode plants the seeds for explosive confrontations to come.
S1:E13 - I Dream of Jeannie Cusamano
Gavin and Hannibal may have gone a little overboard with this one, as they bring you nearly 90 minutes of podcast glory talking about the spectacularly climactic Season 1 finale. So many questions! Is Livia genuinely going senile, or is this simply her most devious chess move yet? Is Jimmy really a rat? Does Tony actually care about Artie deep down, or is he just a sociopath? Your hosts will “remember the little moments like this, that were good,” and more, on this week’s The Sopranos Show!
S1:E12 - Isabella
‘Isabella’ has multiple levels of funny, emotional, and action packed brilliance. Like the breathtaking ‘girl next door’ it’s named after, this episode’s writing and performances are basically too good to be true. Gavin and Hannibal note how the series takes its cinematic storytelling to another level, with memorable choices in editing, sound effects and camera movement.
Shots likes these, though simple, are examples of The Sopranos stepping up its cinematic techniques.
S1:E11 - Nobody Knows Anything
It’s the beginning of the end for Season 1! Gavin and Hannibal admire this well plotted episode which features a stand out performance from John Heard, a tense but funny showdown between Paulie and Pussy, and intriguing layers of ambiguity.
S1:E10 - A Hit is a Hit
‘A Hit is a Hit’ is a rare miss for The Sopranos. Nevertheless, Gavin and Hannibal have fun discussing what is easily their least favorite episode of Season 1. Though it has a few bright spots, Episode 10 is a real case study in how low stakes, plot holes and curious wardrobe choices can make for a disappointing viewing experience!
The W.C. Fields video mashup that Gavin felt we all need to watch.
S1:E9 - Boca
Join Gavin and Hannibal ‘south of the border,’ as they cover what is arguably Dominic Chianese’s finest hour in Season 1. This week’s podcast finds your hosts discussing the timely nature of the dilemma facing Meadow’s soccer team, the hilarious significance of Tony’s bicep tattoo, and of course, Uncle Junior’s sweet skills in the sack.
Being Los Angeles residents, Gavin and Hannibal know people impacted by the wildfires and maybe you do too. If you can, please take the time to donate. A little goes a long way.
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