Wiseguy Television Show: A Deep Dive into David Chase and The Sopranos

Alex Gibney’s documentary, Wiseguy: David Chase and The Sopranos, explores the creation and impact of the groundbreaking HBO series. With a runtime of 160 minutes, the two-part miniseries delves into the mind of David Chase, the creative force behind The Sopranos. While expectations were high given Gibney’s track record and the legendary status of The Sopranos, Wiseguy falls somewhere between a concise film and an extensive series. The documentary could have benefited from a more in-depth exploration of the show’s seven seasons, similar to the format of The Beatles Anthology miniseries.

The initial pacing of Wiseguy feels rushed, particularly in its overview of Chase’s life and career before The Sopranos. The rapid-fire editing creates an awkward and somewhat disjointed introduction. Additionally, the documentary retreads familiar ground, rehashing well-worn discussions about the show’s themes and impact. This repetition might feel tiresome for seasoned Sopranos fans already immersed in the show’s extensive analysis and commentary.

However, Wiseguy ultimately delivers valuable insights, particularly after its initial stumble. The behind-the-scenes footage provides a fascinating glimpse into the show’s production. The documentary truly shines when focusing on the pivotal relationship between David Chase and James Gandolfini, the actor who brought Tony Soprano to life. A tighter focus on this dynamic could have resulted in a truly exceptional documentary.

The strength of Wiseguy lies in its exploration of the creative process and the collaborative relationship between Chase and Gandolfini. This core element elevates the documentary beyond its flaws. Fans of The Sopranos will undoubtedly appreciate the rare footage and intimate look at the making of the show.