'The Sopranos' is filled with really retrograde humor. Bathroom humor, falls, stupid puns, bad jokes - infantile, adolescent stuff, but it makes me laugh.

In this quote, David Chase, the creator of The Sopranos, discusses the unique blend of humor found in his show. He admits that much of the humor in the series is retrograde, meaning it’s old-fashioned or unsophisticated. He references elements such as bathroom humor, falls, stupid puns, and bad jokes, which are often considered lowbrow or infantile. Despite this, Chase openly acknowledges that these types of jokes make him laugh, revealing a personal connection to the comedic style he chose for the show.

Chase’s commentary highlights the deliberate inclusion of adolescent and juvenile humor in a show that also deals with serious and complex themes, such as crime and family dynamics. This contrast between crude humor and deep subject matter gives The Sopranos its distinctive tone, blending dark comedy with moments of levity amidst the tension. The use of such humor could be seen as a way to humanize the characters, making them relatable despite their often extreme behavior.

The quote also serves as a reflection on the nature of comedy and taste. Chase seems to be acknowledging that humor can be subjective and that, even though it may not always be highbrow or intellectual, it can still be effective in connecting with audiences. The fact that the humor is infantile or adolescent doesn’t make it any less genuine or impactful in its ability to evoke laughter, suggesting that even lowbrow humor has a place in quality storytelling.

Ultimately, the quote reveals that David Chase embraces a wide range of comedic styles, not limiting himself to what might traditionally be considered "appropriate" for a show of its stature. This inclusion of seemingly simple or even crude humor gives The Sopranos an authentic, multidimensional quality that reflects the complexities of its characters and themes.