Chicago (15) Review

“Chicago's vitality reflects the exhilarating period of...”

Written on: 28/02/2004 by Lola fontana

Good Points
Chicago has been a long running musical now, and is based on real life events that took place in Chicago in the early 1920's. At first glance I have to admit that I was a bit sceptical about a musical with Renee Zellwegger at the forefront-I definitely wondered if she had what it took to pull it off and I have to say, yes - she does. I was pleasantly surprised. Chicago on the whole is an exuberant treat, boasting memorable songs and excellent choreography. The voices ain't bad either!!! Queen Latifah as Mama Morton is also a highlight-which gives mama a lot more attitude than the stage version. If you want a nice relaxing enjoyable light-hearted sing along this movie is definitely for you.(even my brother liked it-believe me that's saying something!!!)

Bad Points
Although I enjoyed Renee Zellweger's performance, I still believe she was slightly miscast...she relies heavily on her cutesy charm, to mask her short comings as a vocalist/dancer.....the movie is still great though!!!

General Comments
Chicago's vitality reflects the exhilarating period of the 20s when gangsters were glamorous heroes. The plot revolves around two girls who find themselves on murderess row. Velma is a nightclub dancer at the Onyx club where Roxie dreams of one day performing. After Velma shoots her philandering husband and Roxie shoots her boyfriend, both girls find themselves locked up under the supervision of Mama (a delicious Queen Latifah). Their only hope for staving off execution lies in the money grabbing hands of Flynn.