MEAN STREET
Boardwalk Empire – “Pilot”
****
Review by Marc Berman
Ever since the “Boardwalk Empire” project was announced, I have been patiently waiting for what was sure to be the greatest series in television history. The most expensive episode of television ever produced, coming in at a whopping 60 million dollars; elaborate sets, stunning costumes, and direction from none other than Martin Scorsese. The question at hand is did the premiere meet my expectations? The answer is YES.
Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi) is a local politician (as well as a gangster) at the start of prohibition in 1920 Atlantic City. The first episode is a setup for what’s to come (as they usually are), only in this case there is a whole lot more stuff to introduce. We learn that Thompson seems to be a really likable guy with a heart of gold, lending himself to pro-women groups and helping a local pregnant immigrant in need; at the same time, we see that he is a money-hungry, ruthless gangster who is excited for prohibition because he knows how much loot he is gonna make. Buscemi has always been one of my favorite character actors, it is nice to see him wearing the pants of a lead character.
Lots of great supporting character performances. The best probably being that of Jimmy (Michael Pitt) who is Nucky’s right hand man and has worked for him since he was twelve. It is obvious that Jimmy will become a crucial part of the story line as we get further into the season, Pitt is excellent and perfectly cast.
The sets of Atlantic City are immaculate and stunning, my only complaint is that they did kinda look like sets…they were a bit too clean. The costumes (John Dunne) were totally incredible, capturing every alluring detail of the period.
Overall, the chance to see an episode of television directed by Martin Scorsese is great all in itself, even if it hadn’t succeeded. My favorite series of all time was “Deadwood”, I’m thinking this may come close.
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Release Date: September 19, 2010
Country: USA
Distributor: Home Box Office
