He is Risen — Season 3 Episode Guide

He is Risen (S03E08) — Tensions rise between Tony and Ralphie until circumstances demand that they resolve their differences. Meadow gets involved with Jackie's… — Tensions rise between Tony and Ralphie until circumstances demand that they resolve their differences. Meadow gets involved with Jackie's…

Plot

The season opens with a somber tone as Tony Soprano, still reeling from his recent hospitalization and the death of Junior Soprano, attempts to find some semblance of normalcy. He visits Dr. Melfi for therapy, where he discusses the lingering effects of his father's passing and the pressure he feels to maintain control over the family empire. The episode takes a dramatic turn when Tony decides to visit Richie Aprile in prison, an act that signals a shift in his approach to dealing with former rivals. This visit is not just about checking in; it's a calculated move to ensure Richie's safety and to signal that the Sopranos are still the dominant force in the organization. Meanwhile, Carmela grapples with her own demons, particularly after seeing a magazine article about Anthony Comola, a priest who has become a target of suspicion due to his association with organized crime figures. Her moral compass wavers as she tries to balance her faith with her loyalty to Tony. The tension escalates when Paulie and Silvio engage in a heated argument over the management of the family business, highlighting the internal fractures that could potentially lead to a power struggle. The narrative thickens with the introduction of new characters and plot threads that hint at broader conspiracies within the criminal underworld. A mysterious figure known as "The Boss" begins to make moves that suggest a larger game is being played behind the scenes. Tony's interactions with this enigmatic character raise questions about his own position of power and whether he is truly in control or if there are forces beyond his grasp orchestrating events. As the episode progresses, we see glimpses of the personal lives of the Soprano family members, each struggling with their own set of challenges. AJ's relationship with his father continues to be a source of tension, while Meadow faces her own academic and social pressures. The dynamics between the family members become increasingly complex, reflecting the broader themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for identity that permeate the series. The climax of the episode sees Tony making a crucial decision that will have far-reaching consequences for the entire organization. His actions are driven by a mix of instinct, strategy, and an underlying desire to protect those he cares about most. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers wondering about the true nature of "The Boss" and what plans he has in store for the Soprano family.

Credits

James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano Edie Falco as Carmela Soprano Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti Lorraine Bracco as Dr. Jennifer Melfi Jamie-Lynn Sigler as Jackie Batts / AJ Soprano Jamie-Lynn Sigler as Jackie Batts / AJ Soprano Dominic Chianese as Corrado "Junior" Soprano (flashbacks) Steven Van Zandt as Silvio Dante Robert Iler as John "Johnny Sack" Soprano Jr. Tony Sirico as Paulie Gualtieri Drea de Matteo as Adriana La Cerva Michael Moran as Brian "Little Billy" Soprano Billy Calhoun as Richie Aprile (flashbacks) Timothy Hutton as Dr. Melfi's Supervisor

Music

Theme: "The Sopranos Theme" by John Mellencamp Opening Credits: "The Sopranos Theme" by John Mellencamp Ending Credits: "The Sopranos Theme" by John Mellencamp Background Music: Various tracks from the "The Sopranos" soundtrack, including selections from artists like Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra, and others featured throughout the series.

Analysis

"He is Risen" stands as a pivotal episode in Season 3, marking a significant turning point for Tony Soprano and the entire organization. The title itself is laden with biblical connotations, suggesting themes of resurrection and rebirth, which resonate deeply with the show's exploration of identity and redemption. As Tony navigates the treacherous waters of his father's death and the potential rise of new power dynamics, the episode serves as a microcosm of the broader struggles faced by the Soprano family. The decision to visit Richie Aprile in prison is a bold move that underscores Tony's willingness to take risks, even when it means stepping into potentially dangerous territory. This action not only asserts his dominance but also hints at the complexities of loyalty and betrayal that define the criminal world. It raises questions about whether Tony is truly in control or if he is merely playing a game set by larger, unseen forces. Carmela's storyline adds another layer of depth to the narrative, as she grapples with her own moral dilemmas. Her interest in Anthony Comola and the subsequent scrutiny she faces reflect the ongoing tension between her public persona as a devout Catholic and her private life intertwined with organized crime. This duality is a recurring theme throughout the series, highlighting the impossibility of escaping one's past and the constant struggle to maintain integrity in a world where morality is often blurred. The internal conflicts within the organization, particularly between Paulie and Silvio, serve as a warning sign of potential fractures that could lead to a power struggle. These tensions are not just personal but also reflect the broader issues of succession and leadership that loom over the Soprano family. As Tony tries to navigate these challenges, he is forced to confront his own vulnerabilities and the limits of his power. The introduction of "The Boss" adds an element of mystery and intrigue, suggesting that there are forces at play beyond the immediate circle of the Sopranos. This character serves as a foil to Tony, challenging him to reevaluate his position and consider the possibility that he may not be the true master of his domain. The episode's climax, with its cliffhanger ending, leaves viewers eager to uncover the truth about "The Boss" and the plans he has in store for the family. Overall, "He is Risen" is a compelling episode that delves deep into the psyche of Tony Soprano and the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that define the series. It sets the stage for future developments and leaves viewers with a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead. As the season progresses, the themes of resurrection and rebirth will continue to resonate, driving the narrative forward and keeping audiences engaged with the unfolding drama of the Soprano family. Where to watch