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.
Links:
S1:E8 - The Legend of Tennessee Moltisanti
In Episode 8 of The Sopranos Show, Gavin and Hannibal debate the fairness of Dr. Melfi’s cancellation policy, track Christopher as Christopher tracks his own arc and spot an unexpected bakery cameo and Goodfellas reference along the way.
S1:E7 - Down Neck
‘Down Neck’ finds Tony taking a trip down memory lane. Of course if you’re Tony Soprano ‘memory lane’ involves being 8 years old and witnessing your dad beating the crap out of a guy that owes money, your mom threatening to stick a fork in your eye, and a clown named ‘Clarabell’ in handcuffs. Gavin and Hannibal pour over an episode filled with amazingly well cast flashback sequences, stand out comedic beats from Robert Iler, and killer placement of Jefferson Airplane’s coolest song.
S1:E6 - Pax Soprana
In “Pax Soprana,” Tony’s having a hard time, (though not where it counts). His wife and mistress are unsatisfied with his performance in the bedroom, and his capos are unsatisfied with his uncle’s performance as boss. This episode gives Gavin and Hannibal A LOT to talk about as it does an excellent job setting the stage for the remainder of Season 1, includes some killer lines from Livia and Irina (NOT to be confused), the first appearance of Johnny Sack, and Tony’s declaration of love for Dr. Melfi…
This is the goon's face Gavin was so distracted by.
S1:E5 - College
"College" is a landmark episode of The Sopranos. Probably the most adored chapter of Season 1, it received widespread acclaim from fans and critics and won the series its first Primetime Emmys. So what is it that makes "College" just so damned good? Gavin and Hannibal will try to break it down...
A nice bit of physical comedy from Gandolfini to bookend this episode.
S1:E4 - Meadowlands
"Meadowlands" prompts Gavin and Hannibal's first disagreement about The Sopranos! The fascinating fourth episode of the series features a dream (or two?), a significant transfer of power in the family, and the moment AJ Soprano realizes that his dad is a gangster. G & H also get into the coolness of the show's costume choices, and the legendary heavy breathing of James Gandolfini.
S1:E3 - Denial, Anger, Acceptance
There's a lot to unpack in this one, as Tony grieves over the declining health of his friend, acting boss, Jackie Aprile. "Denial, Anger, Acceptance" features a number of good matchups: Silvio and Paulie vs. a Hasidic motel manager, Carmela vs. Charmaine, and Meadow vs. high stakes academic pressure. Gavin and Hannibal explore it all and much more in Episode 3 of The Sopranos Show!
S1:E2 - 46 Long
Two down, eighty-four to go! In this episode, Gavin and Hannibal talk the second episode of Season 1, “46 Long.” The one and only episode of the series that features a pre credits teaser, sees Tony confronting his feelings of ambivalence towards Livia, Christopher’s misguided attempts to gain respect, and Paulie Walnuts’ hatred of coffee shop chains. G & H also discuss the ABCs of TV storytelling and correct Gavin's excitement of a big non-cameo in only the second episode of the series.