The Sopranos - Family Values

Junior's Review

Junior's Review
(Episode 73 - JOHNNY CAKES)

Episode 73 was not as flat as episode 72, but it still didn't meet the high quality standards of the Sopranos. Honestly, I think the episode had potential to be outstanding. As you all well know Vito, the guy who needs to be removed a.s.a.p from the Sopranos, has become a major part of season six and his prominent role has mostly done no good for season six. The same is true for episode 73.

I'm repeating myself here, but I'm not interested at all in Vito and his destiny. I don´t give a shit what he does and why he does it. Who cares about his problems and how he deals with them? Never did, never will. Why are David Chase and his writers telling us about the boring love life of a boring character? What´s the purpose of showing Vito falling in love with Mister Moustache? It´s all so wrong and false about these two characters anyway. And year, I admit also I´m not watching the Sopronos for two guys kissing in New Hampshire. Please, someone tell the mob where he hides, so he can get whacked already. Vito and his storyline is the worst the show has ever put up on the screen.

At least Tony´s character arc was picked up. He struggles with his role as a father and finally the relationship between Tony and A.J. is a huge issue. A.J. is a spoiled kid with no knowledge and no abilities. And more importantly, his father is way above him. Everywhere people see in him only the son of Tony Soprano. He tries to raise to the occasion and tries to prove he has balls. Killing Junior for the honour of the family would make him a man he fells. Like expected he fails. The scene between Tony and A.J. at the car was moving. Father and son at a very emotional point in their relationship and it was great to witness how Tony dealt with it. For the moment he accepts his son with all his flaws. He needs protection and Tony provides it. It´s fair to say his reaction would have been different in previous seasons. I don´t get it why Junior wasn´t much more involved here. Just imagine Junior being on the screen instead of Vito. I miss his presence in the show. My only hope is there is something big for him yet to come.

Another important thing is how much Tony appreciates Carme. He loves her like only a husband can love his wife. Previously he would have spent the night with the sexy real estate agent. Now, he stops right in the middle of it. Carme is more important. Things have changeg for Tony.

Another interesting aspect of "Johnny Cake" was how things are also changing in New Jersey. New shops are opening. Real estate prices are going up. The downside for the mob is that huge corporations can´t be threatened by bricks flying through the window. What worked forever, now doesn´t work anymore. The business can´t stay the same under these circumstances, I suppose. This is great potential for drama and this is drama I´m interested in.

comments are welcome to: jan@winning.com

Back to 6th Season Episode Guide