Chicago exists in the American collective consciousness in many forms. For some it is a nexus of culture, for others it is “Chi-raq,” and for The Chi its both and everything in between. In this new ambitious series by series creator Lena Waithe, Chicago is both the setting and an ever present character in each story. The show weaves various stories of the inhabitants of Chicago in a tragic meeting point. The strength of the show is characterization and dialogue, both of which boast impressive construction. The Chi’s cast has some of the best and brightest from celebrated films like Jason Mitchell (Mudbound and Straight Outta Compton) and Alex Hibbert, of Moonlight fame. The eye for an eye narrative is apparent and seems to set the foundation for the coming episodes.
The characters of The Chi are localized and three-dimensional. Waithe being a Chicago native infuses her experience into the characters. From the intro of the episode the audience gets the sense that the stakes of the Chicago of The Chi can be fatal. This fact filters into the way the characters see and move through the world. Emmett (Jacob Latimore) is more concerned with “fucking and getting high” than addressing the issue of his alleged son. Kevin (Hibbert) is scared to talk about the murder he saw because he fears retaliation. Brandon (Mitchell) is hoping to land the position of line chef with hopes of opening his own restaurant. Ronnie (Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine) is brought back to a life that he wanted to escape. Every single character seems to be touched by Waithe’s understanding of Chicago, showing the importance of local voices as storytellers and creators.
The performance by Mitchell and Mwine shine. They both bring a hard resolve after they experience a trauma. Mitchell’s eulogy brought me to tears and showcases his grasp of the emotional depths of the character. Mitchell is a threat coming hot from his excellent performance in Mudbound. Mwine captures the wound of losing a son and the anger that bubbles within. Hibbert continues to astound with his raw acting as an innocent who wants to impress the girl.
The connection between Brandon and Ronnie is seen in the overall story but also similar in their arcs. Trice is someone who is trying to do better for himself, as is Brandon. Trice returns to the lifestyle of the streets to exact revenge that the justice system likely won’t provide. Brandon, while it was never implied he had any involvement with the streets, is enticed to search of revenge for his family. The similar plotlines show strength in the writing and sets up the character motivations for the rest of the series.
Overall The Chi is must-watch television, that presents the breadth of Waithe’s relationship with Chicago. The characters are three dimensional and are informed by Chicago. The performances are excellent. The eye for an eye narrative connect Brandon and Ronnie in interesting ways. Most importantly, the show is a huge win for representation as it is one of the very few, unfortunately, of its kind. The Chi is an inspiring exploration of Chicago by a Chicago native. If I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again, stories by people of color for people of color beyond diversity, make for better stories.
4/5
Cesar is Chafa 