NBC’s “Chicago Fire” is a must-watch drama. If you haven’t seen the weekly television show, then I suggest that you block out your schedule on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. You won’t be disappointed.
The show, in its third season, traces the lives of the firefighters of Firehouse 51 in the Windy City when they are on and off duty. It not only shows the civil servants in action, but also presents an in-depth look at the personal lives of many of the characters.
With so many storylines, the show is always intriguing, because it is truly impossible to predict what will happen next. The shifting plot requires a dedicated audience member, but the drama is to die for.
Jesse Spencer, who formerly appeared on “House M.D.,” leads the cast, starring as Lieutenant Matthew Casey. Taylor Kinney, who has appeared on “The Vampire Diaries,” plays Lieutenant Kelly Severide and is brilliant throughout the series. Monica Raymund, who has received an Imagen Award for her performance as Gabriella Dawson, is also one of the show’s stars.
The drama also does a great job of representing the city of Chicago. Chicago is Firehouse 51’s city, and the cast does not leave this up for debate. If you’re a sports fan, specifically a supporter of the Chicago Blackhawks or Chicago Bears, then you’re in for a special treat. Throughout the series, references are made to these sports franchises, and some episodes even feature player appearances. Firehouse 51 also has a genuine concern for the people it serves, appearing at various community events and opening its doors to the people of Chicago.
The drama has also led to a spin-off, “Chicago P.D.” “Chicago P.D.” characters often appear in “Chicago Fire” both as part of the plot and as free promotion for the spin-off. “Chicago P.D.” is now in its second season and is beginning to develop its own identity as a hit show. I recommend this drama too, but you have to start with “Chicago Fire.”
Interestingly enough, NBC appears to be modeling “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.” off of two of their hit shows from the ’60s and ’70s. “Emergency!,” featuring Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe, profiled Station 51 in Los Angeles, while “Adam-12” highlighted a Los Angeles police precinct.
Overall, I’m not usually one to offer television advice, but at your next free moment, you should tune in to “Chicago Fire.” If you have more than a moment, then you should also check out “Chicago P.D.” Finally, if you have a lot of time, then you should watch “Emergency!” and “Adam-12.”
