billymac wrote:My own thought involves discussion of the movies included in the episodes. Once we know the fate of Tony, his crew and his family, we can then go back, watch the films referenced in each episode (either actually appearing on the television or alluded to by speech or conduct) and devote our attention to discussing their significance to the overall program. I guess it would sort of be like Oprah's Book of the Month club.
I like all the ideas but this one is something I would love to take part in.
Question: Where would we draw the line on such a thing? I could argue all day that Ingmar Bergman's dream scenes are a huge influence on Chase. As well as blocking, camerawork, etc. Yet, I would think that's taking it a bit to extreme and it would lose the interest of the sane board members who have no interest watching depressing Swedish movies from the 60s. Maybe, I'll ask Chase about I.B. at the conference?
Anyway, A film that I do think should be considered but is only hinted at is Miller's Crossing. I believe this was brought up last year when we discussed "Luxury Lounge." The scene where Vito kills the innocent old man is a direct reference to this movie. Steve Buscemi(the episode's director) was being very self-referential here, as he was in the film and was in one of the scenes that is being referenced. Buscemi's character in Miller's Crossing is more then likely homosexual but it's his supposed lover that makes it even more interesting as that guy is a total street tough mafia thug.
Speaking of Oprah's book of the month club. A thread on "The Art of War" and strategy in general would be awesome. It would be something that could evolve if we were to do a coordinated rewatch of the series. Picking apart where Tony goes right or wrong. Might be interesting to consider Melfi's involvement in giving him this book. As we all know, she has helped him be a better boss.
The strategy/"Art of War" angle could be fleshed out to include the Godfather films as well. Lots of good stuff to discuss!!!!