Opened: October 21, 2021

Directed by: Alan Taylor

Starring: Alessandro Nivola, Leslie Odom Jr., Vera Farmiga, Jon Bernthal, Corey Stoll, Ray Liotta, Michela De Rossi, Michael Gandolfini, William Ludwig, Billy Magnussen, John Magaro, Patina Miller, Michael Imperioli, Samson Moeakiola, Joey Diaz, Germar Terrell Gardner, Alexandra Intrator, Mattea Conforti, Gabrielle Piazza, Lesli Margherita, Talia Balsam, Kathryn Kates, Nick Vallelonga & Ed Marinaro

Fans of The Sopranos will likely appreciate the prequel storytelling focusing on the younger years of James Gandolfini and Michael Imperioli’s characters. However, those unfamiliar with the television show may feel a bit lost.

Young Anthony Soprano (Michael Gandolfini) is influenced by his mob boss Uncle Dickie Moltisanti (Alessandro Nivola), especially once his father Johnny (Jon Bernthal) goes to prison. Dickie is fighting his own wars between his father Hollywood Dick (Ray Liotta) and fellow mobster Harold McBrayer (Leslie Odom Jr.) during the 1967 riots.

Director Alan Taylor should be commended for his heavy influences from Martin Scorsese’s crime family films between the cast, costumes and overall feel of the film. However, the story is lacking heart. Gandolfini does well stepping into his late-father’s shoes as the young Tony.

Final say: A good prequel to an iconic series. ★★★☆☆