Tony and Meadow go on a college-scouting trip in New England during which she decides to ask him point blank if he is a part of the Mafia. He goes so far as to admit that some of his money is obtained illegally, and as they converse Meadow hopes that they will be more honest with each other. She even admits that she'd recently taken speed. Also during this trip, Tony spots a guy who may very well be a notorious rat, and spends every moment he can trying to verify the guys' identity so he can take him out. Meanwhile, back at home, Carmela receives a visit from nice-guy priest Father Phil (Paul Schulze), and she confesses to him that she's been expressing some deep regret about what her husband may be doing and the life she's chosen to lead.
A true standout episode among the first five, 'College' doesn't feature much in the way of violence. There is one showcase killing, but it's done with a garrotte, so not much blood is involved. No, 'College', written by James Manos Jr. & series creator David Chase, is about honesty in relationships, and the script is simply superb. All of the acting is excellent, especially from Mr. Gandolfini, Ms. Falco, Mr. Schulze, Ms. Sigler, and the effectively antsy Tony Ray Rossi as the snitch "Fred Peters", who is quick to notice interest in him and rightfully begins to fear for his life. Director Allen Coulter ("Hollywoodland") handles it all in style, and delivers a great suspense sequence late in the episode. The fact that no music score is used for this sequence makes it all the more effective. (This shows just how stealthy Tony can be, and it marked the first onscreen killing by this character during the series' run.)
Father Phil is notably portrayed in a realistic way. He clearly is attracted to Carmela, but in the end his faith and discipline prevent him from making a mistake.
In a memorable turn of events, Dr. Melfi becomes sick with the flu and calls the Soprano home to reschedule the next session. Well, Carmela, who takes the call, knew that Tony was seeing a therapist, but not that the doctor was female. This leads to more tension at the end of the episode.
Nine out of 10.
A true standout episode among the first five, 'College' doesn't feature much in the way of violence. There is one showcase killing, but it's done with a garrotte, so not much blood is involved. No, 'College', written by James Manos Jr. & series creator David Chase, is about honesty in relationships, and the script is simply superb. All of the acting is excellent, especially from Mr. Gandolfini, Ms. Falco, Mr. Schulze, Ms. Sigler, and the effectively antsy Tony Ray Rossi as the snitch "Fred Peters", who is quick to notice interest in him and rightfully begins to fear for his life. Director Allen Coulter ("Hollywoodland") handles it all in style, and delivers a great suspense sequence late in the episode. The fact that no music score is used for this sequence makes it all the more effective. (This shows just how stealthy Tony can be, and it marked the first onscreen killing by this character during the series' run.)
Father Phil is notably portrayed in a realistic way. He clearly is attracted to Carmela, but in the end his faith and discipline prevent him from making a mistake.
In a memorable turn of events, Dr. Melfi becomes sick with the flu and calls the Soprano home to reschedule the next session. Well, Carmela, who takes the call, knew that Tony was seeing a therapist, but not that the doctor was female. This leads to more tension at the end of the episode.
Nine out of 10.