After rewatching The Sopranos ...
Question: After rewatching
The Sopranos Season 6, I noticed something I hadn't before. Halfway through the season, the names of writers
Robin Green and
Mitchell Burgess vanished. Are they done with the series? If so, they did go out with a winner (the "Live Free or Die" episode), but it would be a shame if we won't be treated to an episode penned by them in the final eight episodes. I don't think I'm giving them too much credit. Their writing always treated us to the finest blend of drama and dark comedy, with a dash of quick wit as well. Also, do you think that time will be much kinder to the much-criticized Season 6? I am hoping that once the hype dies down, people will come to accept this season as one of the show's best (much like what happened with the underappreciated Season 4). What's your take?
Answer: Yes, they did leave the show, and they won't be a part of the final batch of episodes that will air next year, according to HBO. I'm sure they appreciate this shout-out, and we should all look forward to whatever they're involved in next. As for what the DVD (out Nov. 7) is calling Season 6, Part 1, I think its reputation will improve when it's put in context with the back half of this final season, because what left such a negative impression was that the season just didn't feel complete. With
The Sopranos, there's always so much anticipation for each season — and for each episode within the season. As they roll out on the air, the show invites disappointment and criticism when an individual hour doesn't meet expectations. The show tells its story in its own time and way, unlike normal TV.
The Sopranos, like some of the other HBO classic dramas, is best viewed as an epic novel, and, within that context, the long detour of the gay-Vito story line (which fascinated me) will probably still be controversial. What really distinguished this last partial season for me was Tony's sessions with Dr. Melfi, as he considered the second chance on life that he got after his near-death experience of being shot by Junior. They were among the richest, funniest, most searching scenes they've done over the years. All in all, when the final curtain falls on
The Sopranos, we'll look back on its entirety with justifiable awe.
