A Sopranos prequel is reportedly in the works, lead by original creator and writer, David Chase. The project, titled “The Many Saints of Newark“, has been purchased and picked up by New Line Cinema, and is currently in the process of tapping a director.
The film will take place before the events of the HBO series, so don’t expect all your favourite characters to make an appearance. Taking centre stage during the 1960 Newark riots in New Jersey, it will apparently depict the war between the African-American and Italian crie syndicates. While story details are are still highly vague, it has been confirmed that we can expect characters such as younger versions of Tony Soprano’s mother, Livia, and father, Giovanni “Johnny Boy” – former capo of the Soprano crew. Additionally, Tony’s Uncle Junior is to be involved.
While Chase himself could potentially end up in the director’s chair, he is currently only listed as a co-writer and producer. And said to be closely involved with the hiring process. So while the possibility should not be ruled out just yet, lets just say, chances are slim. On the bright side, this leaves room for bigger talent to come on-board. Hint-hint: He has killer eyebrows and rhymes with Schmartin Schmorsese.
At this point, fans and critics alike are just hoping it does the legacy justice. The show arguably made HBO what it is today, “… established the market for DVD sales of popular series…”, won twenty-one Primetime Emmy Awards, five Golden Globes, Peabody Awards for its first two seasons, and yes, gave us something entirely memorable. Fun fact, Mad Men creator, Matthew Weiner also got his big start as part of The Soprano’s writing staff.
Here’s to hoping they don’t screw the pooch on another beloved property.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Mgy9qDXtpU
