The Many Saints of Newark

Main Plot

"The Many Saints of Newark," directed by Alan Taylor, is a prequel to the acclaimed television series "The Sopranos." Set in the 1960s and 1970s, the film explores the formative years of young Tony Soprano amidst the backdrop of the Newark race riots and the escalating tensions between the Italian-American and African-American communities. The story primarily follows Dickie Moltisanti, a charismatic yet troubled mobster, whose influence and actions significantly shape Tony's future. As Dickie navigates his own personal and professional challenges, including family dynamics and criminal enterprises, his mentorship leaves a lasting impact on Tony, setting the stage for his eventual rise to power. The film delves into themes of loyalty, legacy, and the complexities of familial relationships within the context of organized crime.

Characters

• Alessandro Nivola plays Dickie Moltisanti, a charismatic mobster whose actions significantly influence the young Tony Soprano's development and the dynamics within the crime family.
• Leslie Odom Jr. plays Harold McBrayer, a numbers runner who becomes a significant player in the escalating racial tensions and crime dynamics within the Newark underworld.
• Jon Bernthal plays Johnny Soprano, Tony Soprano's father, whose criminal activities and influence shape Tony's upbringing and future in organized crime.

Ending Explained

"The Many Saints of Newark," directed by Alan Taylor, concludes with a series of events that set the stage for the future depicted in "The Sopranos." The film ends with the death of Dickie Moltisanti, who is shot by an unknown assailant. This act of violence leaves a profound impact on young Tony Soprano, who idolized Dickie. The movie suggests that Dickie's death is orchestrated by Junior Soprano, driven by jealousy and a desire for power within the crime family. In the final scenes, Tony attends Dickie's funeral, visibly shaken and emotional. The film underscores the pivotal role Dickie played in Tony's life, hinting at how his death becomes a catalyst for Tony's eventual path into organized crime. The closing moments feature a symbolic gesture where Tony and Dickie share a pinky promise, signifying Tony's unspoken commitment to follow in Dickie's footsteps. This conclusion ties directly into the themes of legacy and influence, bridging the narrative to the world of "The Sopranos" and providing context for Tony Soprano's complex character development.