All the Pieces Matter: The Inside Story of The Wire by Jonathan Abrams

In 2002, HBO premiered The Wire, a groundbreaking television drama that focuses on the lives of police, drug dealers, and working-class people in Baltimore, Maryland. The series quickly gained a passionate audience and critical acclaim. In 2019, Jonathan Abrams released All the Pieces Matter: The Inside Story of The Wire. Abrams’ book is a comprehensive look at the show and its massive impact on television and culture.

The book dives deep into the development of the show, as well as its story and characters. Abrams interviews the show’s cast, writers, and directors to explore how the show came together and, ultimately, proved to be so successful. Abrams details the personal relationships between the show’s cast and crew, as well as the unique production style that kept the show so tight and consistent. All the Pieces Matter also explores how The Wire reshaped television, from its diverse cast to its willingness to tackle difficult topics and consequences of poverty.

The book begins with an introduction that outlines the creation of the show and introduces the key players. Series creator David Simon is a former police reporter, and many of the show’s storylines were based on his experiences as a journalist. Simon wanted to explore the “cyclical nature of systemic urban inequality” and how the criminal justice system deals with that. Alongside Simon was producer Ed Burns, a retired Baltimore cop who helped shape the show and ensured accuracy. There’s also a chapter dedicated to the show’s cast and their performances and characters.

Abrams describes how the show was planned, written, and shot in stunning detail. He dives into the writing process, where the show’s writers would write outlines and break their stories down into scenes. Once the scripts were complete, the show’s directors would shoot the scenes and make sure the show’s vision was captured. Abrams also explores how the show’s cinematography was used to bring the city of Baltimore to life. From shooting during the city’s best and worst moments to using real locations, the show’s camerawork was a crucial element.

All the Pieces Matter also examines the show’s immense influence and legacy. After The Wire concluded in 2008, it inspired a generation of television showrunners to push the boundaries of what is possible on television. Many current series have been influenced by the show, both thematically and stylistically. The show’s cast and crew have also gone on to take part in many other projects.

All the Pieces Matter is an essential book for all fans of The Wire. It’s an engrossing look behind the scenes, an exploration of how the show changed television, and a celebration of one of the greatest shows ever made. Abrams has crafted an essential and in-depth look at the show’s development and legacy, making it a must-read for fans.