2. The Cut-to-Black to End All Cut-to-Blacks The Sopranos ('Made In America')
It's probably the most talked about and controversial editing decision in television history. Who knew that an innocent little cut-to-black could divide an entire fan-base, as well as critics and film-theorists alike? Did they mean to do it? Was it just lazy because they didn't know how to end the show? Was it a stroke of pure genius? Did Tony die? Did he get shot? Why do you torment us with these questions Mr. Chase?! Whatever your opinions/theories about it, it lands on the list as the second greatest cut-to-black in television history. As the sixth and final season of the show that cemented HBO at the top of cable TV comes to an end, the Soprano family business is in jeopardy. Tony's position at the top is tenuous there have been several carefully orchestrated hits against his captains. He goes about putting things right, and at the end he stops for onion rings with Carmella and A.J. They're sitting in the diner, waiting for Meadow to arrive; Journey is playing in the background. Meadow pulls up, but she has trouble parking. A guy in a 'members only' jacket goes into the diner bathroom, and Meadow enters the diner; Tony looks up, and then nothing. We don't know what he saw, whether it was Meadow, or a potential hitman. Confusing? Yes? Infuriating? Obviously. Memorable? Definitely. It's the only cut-to-black moment that's utterly, utterly unexpected, effectively blind-siding you before the dramatic resolution. Whether you liked it or not, you've got to admire the chutzpah for doing such a thing.