2. The Sopranos
The Sopranos is the ultimate Mafia opera that is dark, funny and intelligent. A cross between the intimate family drama of The Godfather and the turmoil of Goodfellas, The Sopranos features one of television's most famous families. David Chase's The Sopranos offers an uncompromising look at crime, showing the grit and everyday struggle rather than the glamour and sharp suits often associated with organised crime. The Sopranos is one of HBO's biggest ever hits, winning a massive 21 total Emmy awards and bringing in huge viewing figures. It has become imbedded in pop culture lore through its iconic central character and its often parodied ending and is solidified as one of the most popular TV shows of all time. The Sopranos is always engaging, often unpredictable and never boring.