Is The Many Saints of Newark Worth Watching? A Comprehensive Review

Is The Many Saints of Newark worth watching? How does it stand in the realm of gangster movies, especially given its connection to The Sopranos? In this comprehensive review, we explore the film's merits, its place in the fan service category, and whether it stands on its own in the realm of new releases.

Introduction to the Movie

The Many Saints of Newark is a prequel to the iconic TV series The Sopranos, depicting the early life of Tony Soprano. The film, which was widely anticipated due to its star-studded cast and the involvement of David Chase, director of the original series, has been the subject of mixed reviews. Some viewers were left underwhelmed, while others found it to be a decent entry that, while not a masterpiece, offered some quality moments.

Expectations and Initial Impressions

Coming into the film with low expectations, the movie largely met those expectations. It's a film that is better-than-average by the standards of gangster movies, but it falls short of being a classic or one that deserves repeat viewings. The preview did little to pique interest, and the concept of grafting some phony history onto a bygone era felt somewhat out of place and unnecessary.

The Sopranos Connection

The film primarily functions as a form of "fan service," paying homage to The Sopranos through its portrayal of key characters in their younger days. These include an excellent portrayal of Livia by Vera Farmiga, reminiscent of Carmela Soprano, and nuanced performances by Tim Roth and Michael Gandolfini in the roles of Junior and Tony Soprano. However, it's important to note that a significant portion of the film feels like an extended episode of the TV series, lacking the cohesion and narrative push that makes the original series unique.

Historical Accuracy and Standalone Value

One of the criticisms of The Many Saints of Newark is that it gets some historical details wrong. While the film presents a version of events that aligns with the lore of The Sopranos, these inaccuracies can be jarring. Moreover, while the film succeeds in depicting the pre-Sopranos life of Tony, it is still highly dependent on its connection to the TV series. This dependence may leave viewers questioning whether it could stand on its own as a standalone film.

Comparison to Classic Gangster Films

Movies like Casino, Goodfellas, Donnie Brasco, and The Departed are often positioned as classics of the genre, known for their memorable characters, iconic dialogues, and compelling narratives. In contrast, The Many Saints of Newark does not reach the same level of excellence. While it is a well-crafted gangster film, it is not quite in the same league as these esteemed predecessors. The story's potential to be great is evident, but the final product falls short, likely due to its heavy reliance on its The Sopranos connection.

Conclusion and Viewing Recommendation

While The Many Saints of Newark is not a poor movie, it certainly is not one that warrants a theatrical release. The film is best enjoyed as a supplementary piece, a fan service for those who are already familiar with The Sopranos. For those who are not, it is perhaps better to wait for a free viewing option to explore it on streaming platforms. The movie is perhaps best enjoyed in its raw, uncut form without the pressure of high expectations.

Links to watch it for free:

Free Streaming on IMDb Free Streaming on YouTube Free Streaming on TV Shows on Demand

Related Keywords

The Many Saints of Newark, The Sopranos, Gangster Movie