Skip to main content

Subscribe to Smithsonian magazine and get a FREE tote.

[s4e5] Pie-o-my Review

"Pie-O-My" is often praised for its slow-burn pacing and its "artful conclusion". The episode is frequently cited for its cinematic quality, particularly the final scene featuring Tony sitting with the horse in the rain, which fans often rank as one of the best shots in the series.

Janice begins her calculated pursuit of the recently widowed Bobby "Bacala" Baccalieri. In one notable scene, she is seen eating food brought to Bobby by other mourners, a sign of her manipulative entry into his life. Critical Reception and Themes [S4E5] Pie-O-My

Adriana La Cerva continues to struggle under the pressure of being an FBI informant. In this episode, her club, the Crazy Horse , is increasingly used as a mob hangout, making her position even more precarious as she tries to keep her "friends" away from her mob-related life. "Pie-O-My" is often praised for its slow-burn pacing

Whether it is Ralph exploiting the horse for profit or Janice exploiting Bobby’s grief, the episode highlights how the characters view those around them as tools for their own gain. Production Notes and MVPs In one notable scene, she is seen eating

The episode’s central narrative revolves around a racehorse named , purchased by Ralph Cifaretto. Despite Ralph being the technical owner, Tony Soprano becomes increasingly obsessed with the horse, finding a rare sense of peace and genuine affection for the animal that he rarely exhibits toward humans. Tony’s involvement begins to shift from casual interest to a financial partnership as the horse starts winning, but his connection remains deeply emotional. Key subplots include:

Tony’s love for the horse contrasts sharply with his cold-blooded business dealings. This episode reinforces the idea that Tony can only show true, uncomplicated love for creatures (like horses or ducks) that cannot "talk back" or judge him.

Carmela remains worried about her future and her family’s financial security. This tension leads her to seek advice on investments, further highlighting the divide between her domestic life and Tony's illicit income.