Watch David Chase: A Sopranos Session

David Chase: A Sopranos Session is a 2020 documentary directed by Kristian Fraga. The film features an intimate conversation between creator David Chase and two of the most prominent TV critics and historians, Matt Zoller Seitz and Alan Sepinwall. Their conversation centers around the iconic series, The Sopranos, which aired on HBO from 1999 to 2007.

The film offers a deep dive into the creative process behind the acclaimed show, exploring its origins, development, and impact on television and pop culture. With David Chase at the helm, the conversation covers everything from the casting of James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano to the controversial ending that left fans divided.

Throughout the documentary, Chase provides fascinating insights into his creative journey, including how his experiences growing up in New Jersey inspired the show's location and characters. He also talks about his collaboration with Gandolfini, describing how the actor's powerful performance elevated the show from a typical gangster drama to a deeply nuanced character study.

The film also touches on the technical innovations that made The Sopranos such a groundbreaking show. For instance, Chase describes how he experimented with nonlinear storytelling to create a more immersive viewing experience for audiences. He also discusses how he incorporated music into the show, using songs to enhance emotional moments and reveal important character traits.

In addition to these insights, the film also features clips from some of the most memorable scenes in The Sopranos, including Tony's sessions with Dr. Melfi, his interactions with his family members, and his tense negotiations with rival gangsters. Through these clips, viewers are reminded of the show's gripping drama, dark humor, and complex characters.

Aside from its focus on The Sopranos, the documentary also delves into David Chase's wider career, discussing his early writing gigs on shows like The Rockford Files and Northern Exposure, and his recent work on films like Not Fade Away and The Many Saints of Newark.

Overall, David Chase: A Sopranos Session is an engaging and insightful documentary that offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential shows in television history. Through its intimate conversation with David Chase, and contributions from TV critics Matt Zoller Seitz and Alan Sepinwall, the film captures the essence of The Sopranos, revealing how it became a cultural phenomenon that continues to inspire and entertain viewers today.

David Chase: A Sopranos Session is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 41 minutes.