'A Hit Is A Hit' is another undeniable low point of season 1, although like other low points of this season, it is not without its evident redeeming qualities. As such, this episode is the first major storyline for the character of Adriana, and it is a great one too. We get a stark glimpse into Adriana's self-assertive yet naïve personality that permeates her existence in the show and it is also interesting to reevaluate her relationship with Christopher at this early stage given how horribly things turn out for the both of them. What I particularly appreciated about this storyline was its interconnectivity with Carmela's storyline, as the two begin to strive for financial independence, however Adriana of course dreams too big and it is Carmela who predictably comes out on top with her investments. Additionally, I honestly enjoy the comic presence of Visiting Day ('Erase Myself' is not THAT bad if you ask me), although sadly they come bundled with Massive Genius, who brought down this episode quite a lot. Just as we saw in 'Boca' with Ally and the coach, Massive Genius exists purely as a stereotypical emblem rather than an actual character, and it really felt as though the writers were way out of their depth in trying to build this fictional world of African-American crime alongside the Italian background that they are obviously more comfortable with. Not only that, but 'A Hit Is A Hit' slows down the main premise of the season even MORE than 'Boca', with no mention of Junior or Livia whatsoever. All that being said, this episode comes with another good plotline that, while being less prominent within the grand scheme of the episode, is just as memorable. Similar to 'The Legend of Tennessee Moltisanti', the theme of Italian-American identity is wholly apparent throughout Tony's storyline with Dr. Cusamano and his friends. While in 'Tennessee' we saw civilian Italian-Americans actively rejecting the stereotypical portrayal of their culture in media, in this episode we see the exact opposite. Even on rewatching this episode, I still cannot help but cringe during the barbecue and golf sequences as Cusamano and co. desperately attempt to relate to Tony through artificial machismo and unmitigated sycophancy. It should go without saying that this storyline was very well written, providing another emotionally revealing therapy session for Tony as well as a cracking ending. Overall, 'A Hit Is A Hit' is another episode that could've been great had it not been for one ostensible flaw.
Review of A Hit Is a Hit
The Sopranos rewatch - 'A Hit Is A Hit' (contains vague spoilers for series as whole)
22 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers