Boardwalk Empire: Complete Episode Guide
Boardwalk Empire – Series Premier
Season One: Episode One
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Written by: Terence Winter (series creator, from the novel by Nelson Johnson)
The Spin: Scorsese’s flashy pilot episode did not disappoint. So much happened and so many characters were introduced (and a few already met their demise) it almost functioned as its own mini-film…not surprisingly given the man behind the camera.
My Favorite Parts: All that period jazz music, the 1920’s version of an “insult comic”, the funny gathering of intel bit where Michael Shannon’s character tried relaying all the mobsters’ names to a hapless partner, and the ranting of Nucky’s sassy mob moll Lucy (Paz de la Huerta).
Characters/Plots I Can’t Wait To See Develop: All of them, but especially the relationship between Nucky (Steve Buscemi) and Margaret (Kelly MacDonald). Also, it will be interesting to see just how far Michael Pitt’s Jimmy character will go to seize his opportunity.
Favorite Line: Nucky to Jimmy when Jimmy talks about finding an opportunity: “This is America, ain’t it? Who the f***’s stopping ya?”
The Verdict Is Still Out On: The opening credits, which seemed anachronistically out-of-place with all the other sumptuous period detail and jazz music. Also, the insertion of characters like Al Capone and Lucky Luciano could become distracting.
Commentary by David H. Schleicher
To my readers and Boardwalk strollers: Thoughts, reactions, comments?
The Schleicher Spin 
Scorsese’s style was definitely evident with quite a few exquisite uses of the camera. I agree with you that this episode could stand alone as a short film. I actually like the blending of real life characters in with the fictional, makes you want to dig in and discover what is true and what parts are fictionalized. Winters stated before the show started that he did not want to be bound by actual incidents, one of the reasons he fictionalized Nucky’s full name. The sets are fantastic as well as the detail to period clothes and music.
John, the period detail was amazing and I loved the Scorsese signature editing. You’re right, using the real characters could pay off in spades if they do it right and don’t sacrifice the main storylines for name-dropping and cameos. –DHS
For those wondering about the “babies in the incubators” display on the boardwalk…the thread about this topic over at the IMDB seems to answer the question and has some interesting links to the history behind it:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0979432/board/nest/170898035?p=1
Please couldyou update the link, it says error, I am New to Boardwalk, I feel like it should come with a guide! I was curious about the babies, I was also. Confused about James the driver and James the husband, were they the same character, they just look too much alike.
Who was killed at the end-at whose behest?
Lesley – belated welcome to the Boardwalk! That link above was to a long ago defunct IMDB message board post. I found this still existing link that might quench your curiosity:
http://www.phlmetropolis.com/2010/10/about-those-boardwalk-baby-incubators.php
I loved it. Some of my favorite parts were the funeral home liquor boss’s laugh, reminded me of Dr. Giggles. And I rather enjoyed the “Muppet Babies” of gangsterism with Capone and Luciano. I don’t see it being a distraction because I don’t think it’s going to be visited as much, at least until they both really take power and then I think it will be vital in the storytelling…….. I hope the other episodes can mantain this kind of direction, I hope the standard hasn’t now been set to high thanks to Scorcese.
Horsie, I wonder if Marty will be directing key episodes later on…or if he was one-and-done with the pilot. I heard many of the same Sopranos guys will be directing episodes, so the quality and style should remain high. –DHS
I enjoyed it immensely. The dialogue was quick and comfortable. The photography was also excellent. You also have to mention the music. What a treat it was to hear that 20’s music!
My favorite scene: When Nucky walked down the boardwalk, I was in awe of how realistic it looked. My take on the “babies in the incubators” part, I interpreted it as something related to his wife.
This show better be a hit, because I’m already hooked.
Oh and Fatty Arbuckle burying a bottle-hilarious!
Boz, yes, yes, and yes to all of the above. I think the show is going to be HUGE in terms of the ratings for HBO. And Atlantic City can do so many touristy tie-ins…a lot of money could be made on this. Can you imagine if one of the casinos sets up an old-style 1920’s Boardwalk Empire club? –DHS
1920’s themed casino? Sign me up!
Actually, wouldn’t it be nice if everyday fashion reverted back to this era? 3-piece suit and a fedora would hide my extra pudge. Don’t try to act like you wouldn’t rock a derby hat, sir!
Now where did I park my blue Rolls Royce?
Geeze louise I sure wish that would happen! –DHS
Just finished watching the pilot less than an hour ago. I thought it was satisfyingly cinematic and very intriguing, although it felt too much like a typical HBO mini-series rather than an actual full-fledged series, mostly due to the amount of detail Scorsese included to bring out the atmosphere of the Roaring Twenties. The in media res opening reminded me a lot of Goodfellas, which is always a plus. I can’t say I’m disappointed, and I’d be lying if I said I’m not very anxious already for next week’s episode.
As for your blog, I like the look a lot, and hope you expand your Boardwalk reviews as the series goes on.
Thanks, Johny! Yes, I plan to have this a weekly feature after each episode airs. –DHS
Renewed!
Yeah, I saw the news today. Not surprising. –DHS
When does the saga continue
Good question – I imagine we will be waiting at least a year for season two. –DHS