Introduction to the Controversy
Martin Scorsese, a renowned film director, has expressed his dislike for the popular TV series "The Sopranos". This information comes from David Chase, the creator of "The Sopranos", who recently appeared on "The Hollywood Reporter’s" podcast "It Happened in Hollywood" alongside filmmaker Alex Gibney.
Scorsese’s Dislike for The Sopranos
According to Chase, Scorsese said, "I don’t understand it – it’s like all these trees and shit." Chase believes that Scorsese, who is known for his films about the mafia, such as "Goodfellas", couldn’t relate to a mafia epic set in the suburbs of New Jersey. Scorsese’s films typically depict the city jungle of New York City, which is a different environment from the suburban setting of "The Sopranos".
Chase’s Response to Scorsese’s Criticism
Chase was asked to respond to Scorsese’s criticism of "The Sopranos" on the podcast. He stated that Scorsese had indeed expressed his dislike for the show, saying, "Yes, he did." In a 2019 interview with "Sight & Sound" magazine, Scorsese said, "I think I only saw an episode… because I couldn’t identify with this generation of the underworld. You live in New Jersey with the big houses? I don’t understand it."
Scorsese’s Lack of Understanding
Scorsese’s criticism of "The Sopranos" seems to stem from his inability to understand the show’s portrayal of the mafia in a suburban setting. He said, "You use four-letter words in front of your daughters at the dinner table? I don’t understand. I’m just not that familiar with it." Chase was asked to explain why Scorsese might not appreciate the show, but he simply replied, "I don’t know. You have to ask him."
The Difference in Perspectives
Chase and Scorsese have different perspectives on the mafia, which may explain why Scorsese doesn’t appreciate "The Sopranos". Chase grew up in New Jersey and depicted the mafia in a suburban setting, while Scorsese grew up in New York’s Little Italy and depicted the mafia in a city setting. Chase said, "It’s very easy. He grew up in New York in Little Italy, and there are five families organized there. That’s what he depicted. I grew up in New Jersey and there were branches of the suburban New Jersey and there were branches organized by five families, but they are different from those in New York, a different culture."
Conclusion
Despite Scorsese’s criticism, "The Sopranos" remains a highly acclaimed and influential TV series. Chase’s explanation for Scorsese’s dislike of the show provides insight into the different perspectives of the two filmmakers. While Scorsese may not appreciate the show’s portrayal of the mafia in a suburban setting, "The Sopranos" has still had a significant impact on the world of television and film.
