We see the consequence of the shooting portrayed in the previous episode.
It's difficult to discuss the plot without spoiling, but the focus on Tony is a typically unconventional David Chase approach to the situation. The writer stated that these scenes are not dreams but he also left their meaning ambiguous. There are clues relating to Tony's soul being possibly in various states of limbo, hell, purgatory, or awaiting rebirth, but the main theme is about his identity. There are images and dialogue relating to possibilities of who he might be if not that "fat f______ crook from New Jersey" and also the aspects of his personality that are quintessentially him. I'm not pretending to understand it all, but I think it's compelling to watch.
The other aspect of the story that transitions brilliantly from Tony's journey is the family at his bedside. The scenes with Carmela, AJ and Meadow are wonderfully portrayed and recognisable to anyone who has been in the unfortunate position of being round the clock in hospital with a relative who is critically ill. Edie Falco is great in most episodes, but here she is exceptional.
His other family is amusingly portrayed with a dynamic of one-upmanship amongst each other that provides some humorous relief, but also shows how self-serving they are.
It's difficult to discuss the plot without spoiling, but the focus on Tony is a typically unconventional David Chase approach to the situation. The writer stated that these scenes are not dreams but he also left their meaning ambiguous. There are clues relating to Tony's soul being possibly in various states of limbo, hell, purgatory, or awaiting rebirth, but the main theme is about his identity. There are images and dialogue relating to possibilities of who he might be if not that "fat f______ crook from New Jersey" and also the aspects of his personality that are quintessentially him. I'm not pretending to understand it all, but I think it's compelling to watch.
The other aspect of the story that transitions brilliantly from Tony's journey is the family at his bedside. The scenes with Carmela, AJ and Meadow are wonderfully portrayed and recognisable to anyone who has been in the unfortunate position of being round the clock in hospital with a relative who is critically ill. Edie Falco is great in most episodes, but here she is exceptional.
His other family is amusingly portrayed with a dynamic of one-upmanship amongst each other that provides some humorous relief, but also shows how self-serving they are.