Television Review: Nobody Knows Anything (The Sopranos, S1X11, 1999)

Nobody Knows Anything (S01E11)

Airdate: March 21st 1999

Written by: Frank Renzulli
Directed by: Henry Bronchtein

Running Time: 49 minutes

If David Chase intended to conclude The Sopranos saga within a single season, the eleventh episode, Nobody Knows Anything, effectively sets the stage for such an ambitious finale. This episode introduces critical plot strands that demand resolution in a dramatic and impactful manner, as the world of Tony Soprano begins to unravel. The narrative thrusts Tony into a maelstrom of paranoia and betrayal, signalling profound changes that threaten to dismantle his carefully constructed life.

The episode begins on a somewhat light-hearted note, with the introduction of a topless woman who works for Debbie (played by Karen Sillas), the madame of an elite brothel that caters to the desires of Tony's organisation. However, this brief moment of levity is short-lived, as Pussy, one of Tony's associates, suffers what appears to be a heart attack while in the brothel, only to later complain of a serious back problem. This is not the end of Pussy's troubles, as he and Jimmy Altieri (played by Joe Badalucco) are arrested by the FBI on gun charges in Jimmy's social club. Despite his back problems, Pussy attempts to flee but is quickly apprehended, and both men are released on bail soon after. This sequence of events serves as a catalyst for the chaos that is to come, as the repercussions of their arrest begin to unfold.

The situation takes a dark turn when Detective Vin Makasian (played by John Heard), Tony's trusted source within law enforcement, confronts him with devastating news: he has reason to believe that Pussy is a government informant. Tony is incensed by this revelation, but he wisely decides not to act against Pussy until he is absolutely certain of the accusations. Paulie is informed of Tony's suspicions and attempts to test Pussy's loyalty by taking him to a bathhouse, where Pussy is expected to undress and potentially reveal a wire. However, Pussy refuses to comply, which all but confirms Tony's suspicions.

However, another twist soon emerges, as Silvio reveals that Makasian, a gambling addict, owes a large sum of money to Pussy and therefore has a vested interest in seeing him eliminated.The situation takes a tragic turn when Makasian is arrested during a police raid on Debbie's brothel and later commits suicide by jumping from a bridge. This event permanently complicates Tony's efforts to uncover the truth, as his primary source of information is now gone.

Further complications arise when Jimmy Altieri begins to pester Tony with questions about the Colombian drug dealer's cash, which was taken in a previous episode. This, combined with the ease with which Jimmy was released from the charges, convinces Tony that Jimmy is the actual FBI informant, rather than Pussy.

Unbeknownst to Tony, another danger lurks in the form of his vindictive mother, Livia. Unhappy to learn that Tony had her former home sold, she reveals to Junior that Tony has been using the retirement home where she lives as a front for secret meetings with his subordinates. This information serves as the perfect excuse for Junior to take action against Tony, whom he perceives as a threat to his authority. Junior, already concerned that Tony may be spilling the DiMeo family's secrets to his psychiatrist, decides to take drastic action and orders a hit on Tony. He instructs Mikey Palmice and Chucky Signore (played by Sal Rufino) to organise the hit, using outside help to avoid any direct involvement. Mikey, delighted at the prospect of advancing within the organisation, reveals the plan to his wife, JoJo (played by Michele Santopietro).

"Nobody Knows Anything" excels not only in its narrative complexity but also in its execution. The episode is well-acted and directed with precision; Frank Renzulli’s script adeptly weaves together multiple plotlines while maintaining a brisk pace. The atmosphere of paranoia and distrust permeates every interaction, leaving characters like Tony Soprano perpetually one step behind the audience. Viewers are privy to information that heightens the tension as they witness Tony grappling with whom he can truly trust.

Moreover, this episode stands out for its contemporary cultural references—specifically its nod to President Bill Clinton and the Monica Lewinsky scandal, which had its official closure during Season 1 run. This timely commentary on modern morality adds another layer of depth to the narrative while grounding The Sopranos in its historical context.

*Nobody Knows Anything? is a pivotal episode in The Sopranos, as it sets the stage for the dramatic events that are to come. The episode's expert handling of multiple plot threads, combined with its strong acting, direction, and writing, makes it a compelling and engaging watch. As the episode comes to a close, the viewer is left with a sense of anticipation and foreboding, wondering what will happen next in the world of Tony Soprano.

RATING: 7/10 (+++)

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