AJ questions his parents on the nature of existence and Christopher tries to fulfil his Hollywood ambitions.
'D-Girl' is a superb episode that has a bit of everything.
It is a pretty reflective and character-driven episode that focuses on several characters who are at different stages of life in the midst of a crisis.
AJ sets the scene with his discovery of Nietzsche and subsequently questioning the purpose of existence. Tony and Carmela react badly and we have more of those hilarious parenting moments, that ring true in life and are always entertaining on 'The Sopranos'. The dialogue is razor sharp and James Gandolfini and Edie Falco are on top form.
Chris searches for meaning in his own life yet again by turning his attention towards the movie business. He has some very funny moments as he blunders through numerous social interactions like a car crash, but ultimately what happens in this venture is quite sad for someone trying so hard to find happiness. These scenes are written as frustrating as they are cynical and funny. Michael Imperioli is brilliant as always, particularly in one scene depicting Chris high on cocaine. John Favreau and Alicia Witt give great support.
The scenes involving Big Puss Bonpensiero are the most difficult to watch as each moment when he is on screen you feel a greater sense of dread for the future. It is quite clever and manipulative filmmaking that can generate sympathy for someone portrayed as a murderous sociopath who "peddled H". Also, now his family are more in the spotlight the level of dread increases. Vincent Pastore gives for me the most compelling performance of the episode and one of the best of the season so far.
There is a great cameo from Livia, who is a character much closer to the end of life, and gives her philosophical take on its journey. It paints a very sad portrait of someone deeply unhappy when reflecting and fits her characterisation perfectly. Nancy Marchand is fantastic as always.
The cinematography and editing is great as always. When the focus changes from one plot thread to the next it flows fantastically well, connecting themes superbly.
For me it's a 9.5/10 but I round upwards.
