The Chicago Code – St. Valentine’s Day Massacre

When you start an episode by referencing one of Chicago’s most memorable historic crimes, you really are setting the bar pretty high for what that episode will be. From a great guest cast, to furthering the already interesting political dynamics, to a powerful performance by Jennifer Beals, The Chicago Code delivered on the promise of the episode’s title.

I was beginning to wonder if we’d ever actually get to meet the Mayor of Chicago. First, John Heard is a great hire. Second, I’m stoked. When talking about Chicago politics, corrupt or otherwise, the Mayor has been a central to that story. Thus, he needs to be at least part of the story here. I’m surprised, though that the Mayor would run from his choice for Superintendent so quickly after appointing her. Sure, it might look like pandering to the public responding to public outcry, but, in reality, it makes him look weak. Was this just an attempt to create another adversary for Colvin (and thus not really that well conceived), or will this Mayor not be as politically shrewd as his historical predecessors?

I’m not sure taking a swing at a fellow cop in front of the entire precinct was a great idea. But, Keefer saying that “Wysocki is a dead man” and that he’s “got a long memory?” That is a much, much more stupid thing to do. I doubt this cop will further that singular act of stupidity, but you never know. At this point, though, I wonder how many friends on the force Wysocki actually had … because it seems like he’s made nothing but enemies since the series started.

Bidwell has grown on me incredibly quickly. He might be young (and, basically man candy for Carla), but he has got his head screwed on straight, and is a great aide to Colvin. While he seems to be a (relatively) new copper, his military service means that he brings a different type of experience to the mix, which, most importantly, isn’t all muscle.

I’m glad that Evers got a chance to say how he felt about Colvin as Superintendent. Wysoki’s loyalty is unquestioned. His young partner, though, doesn’t necessarily have any particular reason, other than his experience since partnering up with Jarek, to be in Colvin’s corner. Evers’ reasoning, when Wysocki shut up long enough for him to get it out, was sound. She’s got a long list of wrongs to right, challenges to overcome, and obstacles to dodge before she gets the CPD on the right track … But she is the right woman for the job.

It is hard not to say I told you so about Isaac and Vonda’s personal relationship. I would be remiss, however, not pointing out that her was her stupidity in getting all handsy with her partner … in the precinct … while that lawyer was in the building. Her uncle is going to explode when he finds out just how brainless she was. It is a shame that I can’t blame the whole thing on Isaac … But you absolutely know that Jarek will.

Notes & Quotes

• I’m not going to argue with Shawn Ryan about Mancow Muller’s level of relevance in Chicago like some idiot did on Twitter last week, but I still don’t have to like the guy (Mancow) right?
• It is good to know that Ryan always has access to a wonderful actress like Cathy Ryan to star in his shows.
• Yes, boys and girls, that was the Leverage‘s Aldis Hodge playing an infinitely less intelligent character than what we’re used to.
• “Tell me, Officer, can you feel what I’m thinking right now?” – Chase
  “It feels to me like you’re a smug bitch.” – Vonda
  “Officer….” – Lawyer
  “For the record, she’s half right.” – Chase

Clacked by Ivey West
on Apr 19, 2011 @ 09:30 EST5EDT