The Many Saints of Newark
Movie Trailer
Release Date
October 1, 2021
Genre
Crime, Drama
Cast & Crew
- Alessandro Nivola as Dickie Moltisanti
- Michael Gandolfini as Tony Soprano
- Vera Farmiga as Livia Soprano
- Jon Bernthal as Johnny Soprano
- Corey Stoll as Junior Soprano
- Leslie Odom Jr. as Harold McBrayer
- Ray Liotta as “Hollywood Dick” Moltisanti / Salvatore “Sally” Moltisanti
- Billy Magnussen as Paulie Walnuts
- John Magaro as Silvio Dante
- Michela De Rossi as Giuseppina Moltisanti
Director
Alan Taylor
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Terminator Genisys (2015)
- Episodes of Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
- Episodes of The Sopranos (1999-2007)
Producers
- David Chase
- Lawrence Konner
- Nicole Lambert
Writers
- David Chase
- Lawrence Konner
Budget
Approximately $50 million
Production Companies
- New Line Cinema
- HBO Films
- Chase Films
- Warner Bros. Pictures
Running Time
120 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Strong violence
- Profanity
- Sexual content
- Drug use
- Mature themes
Movie Story
The Many Saints of Newark serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed television series The Sopranos, delving into the formative years of the iconic mob boss, Tony Soprano. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s, the film explores the complex dynamics and events that shaped Tony into the man he would become.
The story centers on Richard “Dickie” Moltisanti (Alessandro Nivola), Tony’s charismatic and influential uncle, who is a prominent figure in the DiMeo crime family. Dickie’s struggles with his own personal demons, family responsibilities, and ambitions in the criminal underworld serve as the driving force of the narrative. Through his mentorship and relationship with young Tony (Michael Gandolfini), the film reveals the profound impact Dickie has on Tony’s life, setting him on the path toward his eventual rise as a powerful mob boss.
Amidst the racial tensions and civil unrest of the Newark riots, the film also explores the escalating conflict between Italian-American and African-American gangs, highlighting the changing landscape of organized crime. Leslie Odom Jr. portrays Harold McBrayer, a former associate of Dickie who seeks to carve out his own power and challenge the status quo, adding layers of complexity and conflict to the story.
The film delves deep into the personal lives of the characters, offering a nuanced portrayal of familial relationships, loyalty, betrayal, and the cyclical nature of violence. With appearances from younger versions of beloved characters from The Sopranos, such as Livia Soprano (Vera Farmiga), Johnny Soprano (Jon Bernthal), and Junior Soprano (Corey Stoll), The Many Saints of Newark enriches the lore of the original series while standing on its own as a compelling crime drama.
Special Effects
The film employs practical effects and meticulous production design to authentically recreate the look and feel of Newark during the 1960s and 1970s. The attention to detail in costumes, set designs, and period-specific props immerses the audience in the era. The depiction of the Newark riots incorporates a combination of practical and visual effects to deliver intense and realistic sequences that underscore the chaos and tension of the time. The cinematography captures the gritty atmosphere characteristic of classic crime dramas, enhancing the film’s dramatic and emotional impact.
Box Office Performance
The Many Saints of Newark faced unique challenges due to its release during the COVID-19 pandemic and its simultaneous availability on HBO Max. The film earned approximately $13 million worldwide at the box office, which was considered modest but expected given the circumstances. Despite the underwhelming box office numbers, the film found a substantial audience through streaming platforms, benefiting from the established fanbase of The Sopranos and generating significant online discussion and analysis.
Filming Locations
- Newark, New Jersey, USA
- Paterson, New Jersey, USA
- Brooklyn, New York, USA
- The Bronx, New York, USA
Notable Quotes
- “Pain comes from always wanting things.” – Dickie Moltisanti
- “Legacies aren’t built on what we want, but on what we do.” – Livia Soprano
- “I try to do the right thing, but I’m cursed.” – Dickie Moltisanti
- “You lead by example, or you don’t lead at all.” – Johnny Soprano
Behind-the-Scenes
One of the most notable aspects of The Many Saints of Newark is the casting of Michael Gandolfini as young Tony Soprano, stepping into the role made legendary by his late father, James Gandolfini. Michael’s performance was widely praised for capturing the essence of Tony while bringing his own interpretation to the character. Director Alan Taylor, who directed several episodes of The Sopranos, brought a deep understanding of the source material, ensuring continuity and respect for the original series.
The screenplay, penned by series creator David Chase and Lawrence Konner, expands upon the rich universe of The Sopranos, providing fans with deeper insights into the characters’ backstories and the origins of key relationships and conflicts. The filmmakers paid close attention to period accuracy, working with historians and utilizing extensive research to authentically depict the social and political climate of Newark during the era.
Awards
- Nominated for the Hollywood Critics Association Award for Best First Feature (Michael Gandolfini)
- Nominated for the Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actress (Vera Farmiga)
Final Verdict
The Many Saints of Newark offers a compelling and nuanced exploration of the roots of one of television’s most iconic characters, providing both fans and newcomers with a richly layered crime drama. The film excels in its character development, performances, and atmospheric storytelling, effectively capturing the complexity and moral ambiguity that defined The Sopranos. While some critics felt the film struggled to fully encapsulate the depth of the series within its runtime, many praised it for its ambitious storytelling and respectful homage to the original. The standout performances, particularly from Alessandro Nivola and Michael Gandolfini, alongside the meticulous period recreation, make The Many Saints of Newark a worthy and engaging addition to the Sopranos legacy.
IMDb Rating
6.3/10