Television Review: Toodle-Fucking-Oo (The Sopranos, S2X03, 2000)
Toodle-Fucking-Oo (S02E03)
Airdate: January 30th 2000
Written by: Frank Renzulli
Directed by: Lee Tamahori
Running Time: 50 minutes
The third episode of Season 2 of The Sopranos, titled Toodle-Fucking-Oo, while maintaining the show's generally high quality, isn't particularly memorable in the grand scheme of things. It's an episode that, despite its lack of standout moments, still manages to serve its purpose by introducing a character who will play a crucial role in the future. This character is Richie Aprile, played by David Proval, who is immediately introduced as a regular part of the cast.
Richie is the brother of the late DiMeo family boss, Jackie Aprile, and a made man who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence. His introduction sets the stage for a potentially explosive conflict within the DiMeo family, as Richie is resentful of Tony Soprano's position as the boss, given that Tony is younger than him. His actions quickly demonstrate his volatile nature. He tries to re-establish his authority by targeting Peter "Beansie" Gaeta (played by Paul Herman), a former associate who now runs a pizzeria chain that serves as a front for the DiMeo family's money laundering operations. Beansie's refusal to pay protection is seen as a sign of disrespect by Richie, who responds with brutal force, beating and later attempting to kill him. This incident results in a debilitating injury for Beansie and prompts Tony to warn Richie that such behavior is unacceptable. Meanwhile, Richie also attempts to reconnect with Janice, with whom he had a close relationship twenty years ago. More ominously, he visits Uncle Junior at the doctor's office and offers his allegiance, setting the stage for a potential next round in the internal DiMeo family conflict.
In addition to the introduction of Richie Aprile, the episode also explores Tony Soprano's more immediate problems, which are brought about by his daughter Meadow. Meadow has held a party for her friends at her grandmother's house, which quickly spirals out of control due to the presence of unsavoury characters and designer drugs. The party takes a dark turn when one of the partygoers overdoses, and Meadow herself gets drunk. The aftermath of the party leads to Meadow being punished, while Janice tries to intercede on her behalf, causing conflict with Carmela. However, in a surprising turn of events, Meadow not only accepts her punishment but also takes it upon herself to clean up the wrecked house, a task that is both humiliating and difficult. This moment is particularly noteworthy, as it showcases Meadow's growth and maturity, as well as her willingness to take responsibility for her actions.
Professional relationship between Tony and Dr. Melfi might have ended, but a new twist comes when they unexpectedly encounter each other in a restaurant. After Dr. Melfi has had a few drinks with friends, she is tipsy and greets Tony, sitting with associates, in an almost childlike manner, leading to an awkward moment. Tony's casual explanation that she is one of his past girlfriends serves to mask the underlying tension. Later, Dr. Melfi feels compelled to discuss this encounter with her fellow therapist Dr. Elliot Kupferberg (played by Peter Bogdanovich), indicating her growing discomfort with her connection to Tony and her own vulnerabilities.
While Toodle-Fucking-Oo may not be packed with significant events or revelations, it lays important groundwork for future developments within The Sopranos. The episode foreshadows internal strife within Tony's family, particularly through Janice's manipulative tendencies that could lead to conflict down the line. Furthermore, Dr. Melfi's portrayal shifts in comparison to Season 1; she appears more flawed and connected to Tony than she initially admits, suggesting that her professional detachment may be compromised.
A notable highlight of this episode is David Proval's performance as Richie Aprile. Proval, a character actor who was originally considered for the role of Tony Soprano by show creators, brings a captivating blend of roguish charm and simmering darkness to his character, making him a formidable adversary for Tony Soprano. In addition to Proval's strong performance, brief appearance of Peter Bogdanovich, a legendary director from New Hollywood era, adds an air of gravitas to the episode,and his performance is a welcome addition to the episode and the show itself.
RATING: 6/10 (++)
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