"Boardwalk Empire" is superb TV

I just finished watching Season 1 of HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" and have to say I haven't enjoyed a TV series as much in a long time. 

In a pinch, I'd place it between "The Wire" (best TV series ever) and "The Sopranos" in terms of quality.  "Boardwalk Empire" shares key themes from both of those HBO series -- gangsters, crime, sociology -- but manages to stay fresh, even under the direction of Martin Scorcese, who never seems to stray far from tales of organized crime. Perhaps it's the grandiose sets and period dress that give it an edge.

Steve Buscemi is excellent in the lead role of crime boss "Nucky Thompson" but his supporting cast is equally top notch, particularly Michael Pitt as "Jimmy Darmody" and Michael Shannon's multi-layered "Agent Nelson Van Alden." Like "The Wire," many involved storylines intertwine over the course of 12 episodes, leading to an exciting finale that has you itching for Season 2. Note for the fainthearted: There's lots of cussing, nudity and violence. 

"Boardwalk Empire" is not yet out on DVD so HBO is your only legal viewing choice at this point. Those who seek it out will not be disappointed.