Ep 5. Pie-O-My

The episode "Pie-O-My" from season 4 of The Sopranos follows the many intertwining personal and business endeavors of the titular family and their associates. At the beginning of the episode, Tony is shown enjoying a horse race with Ralph, and the two men bond over their shared love of the sport. Tony becomes particularly enamored with one of the horses, Pie-O-My, and begins to follow her racing career closely.

Meanwhile, Carmela continues to deal with her suffocating marriage to Tony, and seeks solace in her friendship with Rosalie Aprile. The two women bond over their shared experiences with difficult men, and Carmela is able to open up about her own struggles with Tony's infidelity and controlling behavior. However, their conversation is interrupted by a shocking news report that confirms that Jackie Aprile's cancer has returned.

Back in the world of the mafia, Tony continues to navigate the complex politics of his organization. He meets with Johnny Sack to discuss business, but tensions are high between the two men. Tony is also dealing with friction from his own crew, as some members are beginning to voice their frustrations with the way he runs things.

As the episode progresses, Tony becomes increasingly obsessed with Pie-O-My, and even goes so far as to buy her from her owner. He becomes deeply invested in her success, and begins to see her as a symbol of his own success. However, the episode takes a dark turn when a devastating event threatens to derail both Tony's personal and professional life.

"Pie-O-My" is a tense and intricate episode that delves deeply into the complex emotions and motivations of its characters. It is a masterful exploration of the intertwined personal and professional lives of the mafia, and raises important questions about power, control, and the price of success.