I don't think that The Sopranos is any particular novelistic, rather it is in the tradion of the "daily soaps." I think all of its great themes are taken from "As the World Turns."

Seriously, one Tony's mother died, the show died with here. Foolish writing and VERY bad acting (with one or two exceptions) were the hallmark of the later seasons.

As for the ending ... what ending?

And while were at it, I think that most critics must practice the "Emperor's New Clothes" tradition of criticism. Comparing The Wire and The Sopranos is an insult to The Wire.

While I agree with your assertion that The Wire is superior to The Sopranos, I think you are being a little rough on The Sopranos. To say that "foolish writing and VERY bad acting" were the "hallmark" of the later seasons is, I think, way off base.

Sure, The Wire is the greatest show ever made, but I think The Sopranos can make a great claim for second place. Not too shabby.

I guess that we will have to disagree, with the exception of carmella, all of the major characters were 2 dimensional, particularly Tony. That might have been the acting (or lack thereof) but it's hard to tell.

Can you suggest any other well acted parts? I'm sure there were, but they have faded quickly, leaving only the soap opera kitsch.

(Not refering to you, but to critics) P.T. Barnum once described how often they are born... For example, does any sentient person actually think that Daniel Day Lewis produced a fine example of acting in there will be blood?

ed