The Sopranos: Season 3 [DVD] [2002]

I notice the comparison to 'I, Claudius' in the Amazon review - interesting, particularly as Tony's mother is Livia, almost certainly a reference to Augustus's scheming wife. The idea that the Sopranos are a kind of modern equivalent to the Ceasars with all the power and lack of responsibility that some of them showed but in a modern context is interesting too. And here in this series Livia takes her leave of us. The wonderful actress, Nancy Marchand, who played her died, and she was written out, necessarily, giving rise to one of the funniest after-funeral get-togethers I have ever seen, with Janice inappropriately (and typically) insisting that the guests say a few words about a woman they all mistrusted or even hated. There is a lot of humour in this series (another wonderful episode in which Chris and Paulie get lost overnight in a frozen wood comes to mind), but also the usual mix of the unexpected, including an unforgettable scene where a concerned but puzzled Tony offers to help Jennifer Melfi, a victim of rape, and she has to turn him away, even though he is the only one who can dispense a kind of justice, brutal as it would be, after the law and the justice system have proved incompetent and worthless. The whole basis of 'The Sopranos' is dramatic irony, and it is never better seen than here. There is so much more in the series - it would be possible to write a book in its praise. I've been watching TV since 1953, when I was 7. I've seen all the great drama series on UK TV and some of those from the States. I have to agree with Q Magazine, quoted in the box which encloses these DVDs, that this is 'the best TV show .... ever'.

This is an excellent series that has engaging storylines and strong acting performances from a cast that is by in large Italian American. This dvd delivers 13 full episodes and 3 audio commentaries on 3 seperate episodes, aswell as an interesting but exceptionally short backstage featurette.Series 3 sees Tony once again have to juggle the demands of his 2 seperate families - as mob boss & his own personal family. He is caused considerable anxiety by his daughter Meadow's tangled relationships, by his son who is expelled from school for criminal damage,by the tribulations of dealing with his crime family & livewire personalities like Ralph Cifaretto, and by the guilt and problems he experiences as a result of his own infidelity.As a result, Tony continues his ongoing relationship with his counsellor Dr Melfi. The fact that such a no nonsense character like Tony Soprano requires counselling lends him a more human feel. Dr Melfi strives to maintain her professionalism in face of a brutal rape by the 'employee of the month'. She nearly succumbs to revealing all to the Tony, which could have been the death knell for her rapist.The 3 episodes that I enjoyed the most in this series were University, Pine Barrens and Amour Fou. University sees Meadows love affair with Noah come to a conclusion, much to Tony's relief as he was less than contented with the ethnicity of her boyfriend. Furthermore, this episode focuses on the Bing with Ralph Cifaretto's vicious murder of young wench Tracee, this results in an intense confrontation between Ralph and Tony. Pine Barrens is brilliant set in a practical Winter wasteland as Paulie and Chris get lost and disorientated after their routine pickup with the Russian mobster goes horribly wrong. Their mutual dislike for each other surfaces powerfully and to great humour. Amour Fou has Tony finish with Gloria and has one of his henchman deliver her a profound warning to stay clear of himself and his family. Whilst, the reckless and academically challenged Jackie Junior foolishly decides to hold up one of Ralph's gambling sessions, this results in a big shootout that has disastrous implications for Jackie Junior.In truth though the whole series is engaging and one of the best programmes to have graced television in recent years.

No matter that the world is a place of anger, revenge, relentless profit and concommitant need - The Sopranos present it all for our greedy appetite to glory over. Each series unfolds at a wonderfully unhurried pace, allowing the eccentricities to manifest, and the dialogue to enrichen our own speech with the occassional gems that litter the screenplay. Stereotypes are hung on the line to drip which merely strengthens our appreciation of a very American institute. It is one we welcome and would not suffer to have undermined by inferior copies.The acting gives life to vivid writing. James Gandolfini and Edie Falco are the epitome of a married couple who love and resent each other in the same breath, whilst remaining standard bearers for the institute of family. The supporting cast, each given their own stake and moment of attention, elevate the series to one that will long live in the memory and regard of the appreciative viewer.Watch out for Steve Buscemi's "Pine Barrens". Think the bizarre moments of 'Fargo' mixed with the familiar of the Sopranos, and you have a piece of television that resonates long after the credits have rolled. Enjoy the series and give profuse thanks to David Chase's vision in creating a work that rivals anything on our screens.

A good product at a good price.Haven't played the discs yet but they appear to be in excellent condition.

Another great series in the Sopranos saga. I want to give a great feedback to Webuy books, I have dealt with them a number of times, always super service, keep up the good work, one of the best 🙂👍

Can't recommend this TV show enough I believe it is the best TV show of all time.There is a huge element of realism to it and the psychology is absolutely spot on, its amazing how you end up sort of rooting for Tony Soprano despite the fact he is a sociopath.It's brilliant, dark and beautifully filmed.James Gandolfini is an absolute legend may he rest in piece.