Most of them come from it running too long. Themes were re-trodden, characters and plot arcs were extended into unreasonable places, and some stretches became nauseatingly dull/unwatchable from either contempt of the audience (on behalf of Chase) or flimsy motivation. Meadow and AJ failed to become compelling characters independent of Tony.
Couldn't disagree more with you there. And I know you're a big fan of HBO and good TV.
You used the word 'unwatchable'. Which show were you watching? Because I thought each and every Season was brilliant from start to finish.
I think you're looking for something in The Sopranos that just isn't there. The Sopranos never goes out of its way to develop characters. Instead, it relies upon its plot development and its performances. If you're expecting some massive character arc to come in, then you're always going to be disappointed. This show was more about how things can go from good, to bad, to great, to absolute disaster. It was realistic in that sense.
Themes are always re-trodden in good TV shows. If you're expecting any more than 3 Seasons, then that's a given.
Sopranos is every bit as good as The Wire, IMO. Maybe not quite as consistant, as you may point out. But both are way up there. What I like more about Sopranos, is the unpredictability in its writing. It's just so effortless at times, it makes me wonder why anyone needs character development in the first place. Things don't just happen for a reason. They just happen.
It's like the show just 'is'.
People are often quick to point out the Dr Melfi situation at the end. But if they're looking for closure they're watching the wrong TV show. It's like the very last scene in the show. Simply put - it just ends. Take it of leave it. (of course there are many interpretations, but you get the jist of it)
Might go back and watch them all again, infact. Just pure brilliance.