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 opener for the third year begins in a state of quiet, palpable tension. Tony Soprano is preparing to open his new practice at Cherry Hill Mall, but the atmosphere in the family is far from celebratory. A recent raid on the organization has left many associates either incarcerated or on the run, creating a power vacuum that threatens to collapse under its own weight. The episode picks up immediately after the events of the previous installment, where Tony was forced to choose between his loyalty to Big Pussy and the safety of his crew. Tony meets with Paulie in New York, trying to navigate the fallout of the raid. He learns that Carmela has been receiving calls from various sources, including a woman claiming to be a friend of hers who is actually an undercover agent or informant. This revelation sends shockwaves through the family, as Tony realizes his wife may have been compromised. The anxiety mounts as Tony attempts to piece together the truth about who knows what and who can be trusted. In New York, Paulie is dealing with the consequences of his own actions and the shifting tides of the organization. He visits his mother in Jersey, where he finds comfort in her wisdom despite her apparent ignorance of the true extent of their troubles. Meanwhile, Janice makes a surprise visit to Tony's home, seeking advice on her own marital woes, which inadvertently highlights the disconnect between her public persona and private struggles. Back at the hospital, Dr. Melfi continues to probe Tony's psyche, delving into his complex relationship with his mother and how it influences his current predicament. They discuss the concept of "the past" and how it haunts Tony, preventing him from moving forward. The therapy session reveals Tony's deep-seated fear of being exposed and his struggle with the weight of leadership in a crumbling organization. The episode builds to a dramatic climax as Tony confronts the reality of his situation. He must make difficult decisions about how to proceed with the organization, balancing his need for survival with his moral compass. The tension reaches its peak when Tony discovers that Big Pussy has been arrested, confirming his worst fears and leaving him without a trusted ally in the family.

Credits

Written by Robert L. Freedman and Terry Winter Directed by Allen Coulter Starring James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli, Dominic Chianese, Steven Van Zandt, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Matt Bomer, and Amy Carlson Executive Producers David Chase, Matthew Weiner, Robin Green, Terence Winter, and Robert L. Freedman

Music

"Theme from The Sopranos" by Dick Hyman "Let It Be" by The Beatles (played during opening credits) "Blackbird" by The Beatles (played during closing credits) "Blue Monday" by New Order (featured in episode) "Come On Eileen" by Dexys Midnight Runners (featured in episode) "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond (featured in episode) "Imagine" by John Lennon (featured in episode) "Hotel California" by Eagles (featured in episode) "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin (featured in episode) "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen (featured in episode)

Analysis

The third season of The Sopranos represents a pivotal turning point for the series, shifting from the relatively straightforward crime drama of earlier years to a more complex exploration of family dynamics and personal trauma. "He is Risen" sets the stage for this transformation by introducing a new layer of uncertainty that permeates every aspect of Tony's life. The episode masterfully balances the external pressures of the criminal organization with the internal turmoil of Tony's psyche, creating a narrative that feels both immediate and timeless. What makes this particular episode so compelling is its ability to maintain tension without relying on traditional cliffhangers or explosive confrontations. Instead, the drama unfolds through subtle interactions and underlying currents of distrust that run beneath the surface of every conversation. This approach reflects the show's signature style, where the most dangerous moments often occur in plain sight, disguised as mundane exchanges between characters who know each other intimately. The portrayal of Tony's anxiety throughout the episode serves as a microcosm for the broader themes explored in the series. His fear of being exposed and his struggle with the weight of leadership are not just plot points but central elements that drive the narrative forward. Through these moments, we see Tony grappling with the fundamental question of what it means to be a leader in a world where trust is scarce and betrayal is inevitable. One of the standout aspects of this episode is its handling of the relationship between Tony and Carmela. The revelation that Carmela may have been compromised adds a new dimension to their marriage, forcing Tony to confront the possibility that even those closest to him can be untrustworthy. This theme resonates throughout the series, highlighting the isolation that comes with living a double life and the constant need to protect one's inner circle from external threats. The supporting characters also play crucial roles in advancing the episode's themes. Paulie's visit to his mother provides a glimpse into the generational dynamics within the Soprano family, while Janice's unexpected appearance underscores the complexities of personal relationships within the context of organized crime. Each character brings their own perspective to the unfolding drama, enriching the narrative tapestry and adding depth to the overall story. Ultimately, "He is Risen" stands out as a testament to the show's ability to evolve while maintaining its core identity. It challenges viewers to reconsider their assumptions about loyalty, trust, and the nature of power within the world of The Sopranos. By weaving together personal drama with larger-than-life criminal elements, the episode creates a rich tapestry that continues to captivate audiences even years after its initial airing. As we move forward into this new season, it becomes clear that the road ahead will be fraught with challenges that test not only Tony's resolve but also the very fabric of his world.