HBO is on the path to establishing another excellent mafia-based series with its new project “Boardwalk Empire.” 

Combining the remarkable directing of Martin Scorsese with “The Sopranos” screenwriter and producer Terence Winter, “Boardwalk Empire” sets out to explore the organized crime lifestyle in Atlantic City, N.J., in the 1920s immediately following prohibition.  

Steve Buscemi plays the smarmy Enoch “Nucky” Thompson, the corrupt city treasurer of Atlantic City who seems to have the whole town in his pocket. His latest venture is dealing alcohol to the public on a grand scale.

The series portrays life in the American 1920s by paying close attention to details, such as the impeccably designed costumes and elaborately constructed sets.  

Another interesting aspect of the show is that it allows viewers to see the stories of various historical figures who were notoriously associated with the mafia. One of the mobsters featured is a young Al Capone, who is an apprentice to major Chicago crime boss, Lucky Luciano.  

The writers have created a fresh twist on what one might expect to be another attempt to recycle the hit show “The Sopranos.”  

They accomplish this by not only interweaving true historical fact with fiction, but by creating a complex web of relationships between each of the characters that keeps viewers coming back for more.  

“Boardwalk Empire” is positioned to become another “Hall of Fame” series for HBO that is a must see for anyone who appreciates top quality acting, directing and writing.