It’s been just over a decade since the controversial finale of “The Sopranos” aired on HBO. Since then, fans have been clamoring for more stories from creator David Chase that could continue the story. With today’s announcement, it looks like ‘Sopranos’ fans are going to get they’re wish. Kinda.
According to Deadline, Warner Bros./New Line has purchased the screenplay to “The Many Saints of Newark,” which serves as a prequel story set in the same universe as “The Sopranos.” The film takes place in the ‘60s and features the conflict between the African-Americans and the Italians of Newark, with things getting lethal amongst the gangsters of each group.
Chance and ‘Sopranos’ writer Lawrence Konner are credited with writing the script, with coming on to Chase produce the film, as well. According to the report, Chase will be involved in selecting the director of ‘Newark.’
Warner Bros. Chairman Toby Emmerich said, “David is a masterful storyteller and we, along with our colleagues at HBO, are thrill that he has decided to revisit, and enlarge, the ‘Soprano’ universe in a feature film.”
While no casting was announced, Deadline has confirmed that at least a few of the characters from the award-winning TV series will show up. The fact that it’s a prequel, and takes place decades before the series, means that characters like Tony Soprano’s father, played by Joseph Siravo in flashbacks, are bound to show up.
“The Sopranos” was a landmark achievement for HBO back in 1999, when it first aired. The series is largely responsible for making HBO a household name for premiere TV content. “The Sopranos” won 21 Emmys and numerous Golden Globes. It also launched the career of many of its stars, including the late-James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Lorraine Bracco, Michael Imperioli, and Steven Van Zandt.
No word on when “The Many Saints of Newark” will be released.