Directed by Daniel Attias, Martin Bruestle, David Chase, Allen Coulter, Nick Gomez, John D. Patterson, Matthew Penn, Lorraine Senna Ferrara, Lee Tamahori, Alan Taylor, Timothy Van Patten and Andy Wolk
Written by James Manos Jr., Jason Cahill, David Chase and Michael Imperioli
Cinematography by Phil Abraham or Alik Sakharov

James Gandolfini as Anthony 'Tony' Soprano Sr. Lorraine Bracco as Dr. Jennifer Melfi Edie Falco as Carmela Soprano Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti Dominic Chianese as Corrado Erico 'Uncle Junior' Soprano Vincent Pastore as Salvatore 'Big Pussy' Bonpensiero Steve Van Zandt as Silvio Dante Tony Sirico as Paulie Gaultieri (a.k.a. Paulie Walnuts) Robert Iler as Anthony 'A.J.' Soprano Jr. Joseph Badalucco Jr. as Jimmy Altieri (as Joe Badalucco Jr.) Nancy Marchand as Livia Soprano Jamie-Lynn Sigler as Meadow Soprano

Release Date: Jan. '99

Overall Call:
Yes this is a TV show but the first season, in its entirety, is available now. This is one engaging ride. If you haven't already heard of this show on HBO or seen a couple episodes please check this one out. The storyline is refreshingly unique. The main character Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini), who is excellent, has a series of panic attacks and then seeks psychiatric help. The entire cast are all very strong and this is arguably one of the most solid productions currently on air. The shrink sessions are always entertaining and never get campy a la Analyze This. The rest of the Mafia based story will satisfy those in need of a good mob story. So if you don't have HBO or have not yet tuned in, check out the first season on video you won't be sorry. I rented the first three episodes (two or three episodes per video) became hooked and continued until I had seen them all.

Reasons For Recommendation:
+ Excellent writing
+ Excellent acting
+ Some very well directed episodes