Watch The Many Saints of Newark

In The Many Saints of Newark, audiences are taken back to the 1960s and 70s in Newark, New Jersey. The film serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed television series, The Sopranos, and follows the rise of Tony Soprano, the iconic character at the center of the show. The film explores the early years of Tony's life, as well as the origin of many of the characters and factions that appear later in the series.

At the start of the film, we are introduced to a group of young men, including Dickie Moltisanti (Alessandro Nivola), who is the mentor of a young Tony Soprano. Dickie is the nephew of mob boss Harold McBrayer, and he serves as a sort of father figure to Tony, who is dealing with a difficult family life at home. Tony's parents, Johnny (Jon Bernthal) and Livia (Vera Farmiga), lead a tumultuous and violent marriage, and Tony often finds solace with Dickie and his friends.

As the film progresses, we see the many different factions vying for control of Newark's criminal underworld. The Italians, led by McBrayer, are in a constant power struggle with the African-American gangs, led by rival boss Raymond DiMeo (Leslie Odom Jr.). The scene is set for a bloody and violent battle for control, with both sides determined to come out on top.

The Many Saints of Newark is a gritty and violent film that does not shy away from the brutality and darkness of organized crime. Director Alan Taylor (who previously directed several episodes of The Sopranos) has created a film that is both gripping and emotional, with fully realized characters that are both likable and detestable. The performances are all superb, with Nivola giving a standout performance as the complex and conflicted Dickie Moltisanti. Odom Jr. is also excellent as the charismatic and menacing Raymond DiMeo, and Bernthal is perfect as the intense and unpredictable Johnny Soprano.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its portrayal of race relations in Newark during the time period. The Many Saints of Newark takes an unflinching look at the racism and prejudice that existed in the city, and how that affected the criminal underworld. The film does not portray either side as entirely good or bad, but instead explores the complicated and often violent relationship between the two groups.

The Many Saints of Newark also features several nods to The Sopranos, with several characters and moments that will be familiar to fans of the show. However, the film is also accessible to viewers who have not seen the series, as it works as a standalone story that can be enjoyed on its own merits.

Overall, The Many Saints of Newark is a powerful and compelling film that explores the origins of one of television's most iconic characters. With a talented cast, excellent direction, and a gripping story, it is a must-see for fans of The Sopranos and anyone who enjoys a thrilling and thought-provoking crime drama.

The Many Saints of Newark is a 2021 crime movie. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 60.