HBO’s Two-Part Documentary "WISE GUY: David Chase and The Sopranos" Premieres September 7
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On Saturday, September 7, HBO will debut a highly anticipated two-part documentary, WISE GUY: David Chase and The Sopranos. Directed by Academy Award®-winner Alex Gibney, known for his groundbreaking work on documentaries like Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief and The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley, this new documentary promises to offer an intimate look into the mind of David Chase, the creative genius behind HBO's iconic series, The Sopranos. The documentary will air at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and will also be available for streaming on Max.
A Deep Dive into "The Sopranos" and David Chase
Marking 25 years since The Sopranos first graced television screens, WISE GUY revisits the series that revolutionized television and became a cultural touchstone. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and a rich tapestry of clips from the show, the documentary offers viewers a chance to understand the creative journey of David Chase.
Set on a replica of Dr. Melfi’s psychiatrist office—a key location from the series—the documentary flips the script as filmmaker Alex Gibney interviews Chase about the origins of The Sopranos, his creative process, and the autobiographical elements woven into the show. The documentary sheds light on how Chase’s upbringing in an Italian American family in New Jersey, his complex relationship with his mother, and his deep passion for cinema influenced the creation of one of television's most nuanced characters, mob boss Tony Soprano.
An All-Star Lineup of Contributors
WISE GUY brings together many of the key figures who contributed to The Sopranos’ success. These include writers, producers, and cast members who played an essential role in bringing the series to life. Featured participants include David Chase himself, alongside The Sopranos writers and producers like Robin Green, Terence Winter, Frank Renzulli, and Alik Sakharov, who served as the director of photography.
The documentary also features interviews with former HBO executives Chris Albrecht and Carolyn Strauss, who were instrumental in getting The Sopranos on the air. Cast members Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Melfi), Edie Falco (Carmela Soprano), Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti), Drea de Matteo (Adriana La Cerva), and Steven Van Zandt (Silvio Dante) share their experiences working on the show. Additionally, the documentary includes archival interviews with late actors James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, Nancy Marchand, who portrayed Livia Soprano, and Tony Sirico, who played Paulie Walnuts.
A Legacy Revisited
WISE GUY offers a rare glimpse into the writers’ room of The Sopranos, from the conceptualization of the pilot to the development of the show’s controversial final episode. Through candid discussions and self-reflection, David Chase and his collaborators reveal the challenges and triumphs of creating a show that not only captivated audiences but also redefined the television landscape.
As the documentary explores the intricate layers of Chase’s work, viewers will gain insight into how The Sopranos became more than just a show about a mob boss—it became a cultural milestone, a