bit parts What I like about the Sopranos is that for most of the supporting cast, this is the only acting gig they have. So theoretically they have all that time to fully invest in their character and make it their own. The writing wouldn't be as brilliant without the actors making it happen. The facial tics, gesticulations, jersey accent... all of that contributes to the authenticity. Take the past week's episode, the main plotline being Artie and his restaurant. Guy does a tour-de-force performance showcasing a wide variety of emotions. (okay he does mostly "pissed off" and "crazy lunatic with balls of steel", but it was still notable.)

I'm not sure exactly why but the way they film this show is just fascinating to me. Every shot seems like it was done with specific purpose. It's all in the details and I love to analyze the minutia. How the old guy counts the money in the envelope, nods, and walks away. Then the wiseguy steals a sausage from the pizza on the countertop. Even the throwaway jokes and gag are meaningful in some respect. The guest stars superbly parody themselves, i.e. Ben Kingsley and Lauren Bacall dropping F-bombs.

The end is drawing near, I can't believe that its been 7 episodes already with 5 more to go (then 8 more in 2007). Hopefully big things are in store and the pace will pick up soon enough.  ¶ 1:09 AM