Decoding “The Sopranos”: HBO’s Wiseguy Documentary Explores David Chase’s Genius

Alex Gibney’s documentary, Wiseguy: David Chase and The Sopranos, explores the genesis and legacy of the groundbreaking HBO series. The two-part, 160-minute miniseries delves into the mind of David Chase, the creative force behind The Sopranos. While expectations were high given Gibney’s acclaimed work and the iconic status of The Sopranos, Wiseguy falls somewhere between a concise film and a sprawling series. A deeper exploration of the show’s seven seasons, similar to The Beatles Anthology miniseries, could have elevated the documentary.

Wiseguy’s initial pacing feels rushed, particularly when summarizing Chase’s life and career pre-Sopranos. The rapid-fire editing creates a disjointed and somewhat jarring introduction. The documentary also retreads familiar territory, rehashing well-known discussions about the show’s themes and cultural impact. Seasoned Sopranos fans, already immersed in extensive analysis and commentary, might find this repetitive.

However, Wiseguy ultimately offers valuable insights, especially after its initial stumble. Behind-the-scenes footage provides a captivating glimpse into the show’s production. The documentary truly excels when focusing on the pivotal relationship between David Chase and James Gandolfini, the actor who embodied Tony Soprano. A tighter focus on this dynamic could have resulted in a truly exceptional film.

Wiseguy’s strength lies in exploring the creative process and the collaborative bond 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 show’s creation.