The two-part documentary titled Wise Guy: David Chase and The Sopranos explores the success of the HBO show and the impact it had on popular culture. The film features creator David Chase discussing the show with director Alex Gibney, while revisiting key moments and scenes from the series. The documentary pays tribute to James Gandolfini, who played mob boss Tony Soprano and passed away in 2013. Cast members and crew members remember Gandolfini as a kind, laid-back individual who was very different from his on-screen character.
Chase discusses the process of creating Tony Soprano and how James Gandolfini embodied the character from the beginning. Despite some challenges during the audition process, Chase was confident that Gandolfini was the perfect fit for the role. The chemistry between Gandolfini and Lorraine Bracco, who played Dr. Melfi, added depth to the show and their dynamic was a crucial part of the series. Edie Falco, who played Carmela Soprano, praised Gandolfini for his dedication to the character and his commitment to making the role believable.
The documentary also delves into a significant moment in Gandolfini’s career when he received a pay raise from HBO and decided to share the wealth with his co-stars. Gandolfini’s generosity and kindness were highlighted by his actions, with cast members recalling how he gave each of them a check for $30,000. The gesture was seen as a way for Gandolfini to make amends for the days he had missed work and to show his appreciation for his colleagues. Despite his success, Gandolfini faced struggles related to his rising fame and the pressures of leading a hit series.
As Gandolfini’s struggles became more public, his co-stars and crew members became increasingly concerned about his well-being. Steven Van Zandt recalled how Gandolfini would threaten to quit the show and disappear for days at a time, causing anxiety among the cast and crew. Despite attempts to intervene and support Gandolfini, he struggled with the demands of fame and the impact it had on his personal life. The documentary explores the toll that fame took on Gandolfini and how it affected his mental health and well-being.
The controversial finale of The Sopranos is also discussed in the documentary, with co-stars revealing James Gandolfini’s initial reaction to the ending scene. Gandolfini was reportedly shocked and surprised by the finale, echoing the sentiments of many viewers. The documentary serves as a tribute to Gandolfini’s legacy as an actor and the impact he had on his colleagues and the television industry. Wise Guy: David Chase and The Sopranos is a fitting tribute to James Gandolfini and his iconic role in one of television’s most acclaimed series.
