One of the great shows in recent years — it’s edging Breaking Bad now on multiple viewings for me — is Boardwalk Empire. This show really captures the 1920s, a period that is now 100 years ago! As historical dramas go, they have some modern conveniences that are hard to believe are that old. Costuming is amazing. The story throughout the series is captivating. Steve Buscemi is stunning as Nucky Thompson, and every character is perfectly cast. I absolutely love the history, and while they do stray a bit for dramatic purposes, it manages to stay on target with actual events.
A lot of folks are critical of the final season. I agree that it ended a bit too fast. There should have been another season between four and five, but even with that, the final season ties the first four seasons together. The casting of the younger versions of the characters is nothing short of amazing, and the young man who played Nucky Thompson in his 20’s — Marc Pickering — should have won an Emmy. He was absolutely fantastic.
Boardwalk Empire is also a sad tribute to a lost major talent, Michael Kenneth Williams, a man who died WAY too young and still had so much to offer.
Definitely one to put on your bucket list set of shows. It’s on HBO Max.
Best opening theme song - Boardwalk Empire