Who needs to watch a ball drop? As the wind blows cold and the cityscape lights up with the vibrant energy of New Year’s Eve, what better way to usher in the festivities than with a selection of movies and TV shows set in the heart of the Midwest—Chicago?
The city that boasts a rich cultural tapestry and iconic landmarks has been the backdrop for numerous cinematic gems and TV series. Let’s explore a curated list of Chicago-themed movies and TV shows that promise to transport you to the Windy City, making your New Year’s Eve celebration uniquely Chicagoan.
Movies
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
John Hughes’ classic comedy captures the essence of Chicago as Ferris Bueller embarks on a day of adventure, taking in iconic locations such as the Art Institute of Chicago and Wrigley Field. The city becomes a character in itself as Ferris and his friends navigate its streets.
The Blues Brothers (1980)
This musical comedy, starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, is a love letter to Chicago’s music scene. The Blues Brothers’ chaotic journey through the city showcases its vibrant neighborhoods and culminates in a memorable concert at the iconic Chicago Palace Hotel Ballroom.
High Fidelity (2000)
Based on the novel by Nick Hornby, High Fidelity takes viewers on a tour of Chicago’s eclectic record stores as protagonist Rob Gordon, played by John Cusack, reflects on love, life, and music. The film beautifully captures the city’s cultural diversity.
The Untouchables (1987)
This crime drama is directed by Brian De Palma, set in Prohibition-era Chicago and tells the story of Eliot Ness and his team’s pursuit of gangster Al Capone. The film showcases the city’s architectural marvels and its historical significance during a tumultuous period.
While You Were Sleeping (1995)
A heartwarming romantic comedy set against Chicago’s snowy winter, “While You Were Sleeping” stars Sandra Bullock as a transit worker who saves a man’s life and gets entangled in a case of mistaken identity. The film captures the city’s charm during the holiday season.
TV Shows
Sure we could name some current shows like The Bear or South Side, but it’s the holidays. Let’s dig into that crate and bring out some Chicago classics.
Chicago Fire (2012-present)
Here’s a perfect time to catch up on the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51 as they respond to emergencies across Chicago. The show provides a gripping portrayal of the city’s first responders and their camaraderie. Chicago Fire Season 12 premieres Wednesday, January 17 at 9/8c on NBC. Episodes stream next day on Peacock. Here’s the opening credits to S1:
Shameless (2011-2021)
It’s now been two years since the Gallaghers left our TV screens. Now’s a great time to catch up. Shameless is a dramedy that revolves around the dysfunctional Gallagher family. The series paints a vivid picture of the city’s working-class neighborhoods and explores the challenges faced by its residents.
ER (1994-2009)
Chicago Med Who? No, it wasn’t The Facts of Life where audiences started crushing on George Clooney. It was ER which aired on NBC. The medical drama that became a cultural phenomenon, is set in the fictional County General Hospital in Chicago. The show, which follows the lives of emergency room doctors, nurses, and staff, offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of the city’s healthcare landscape.
The Good Wife (2009-2016)
After Juliana Marguiles stopped being a great doctor on ER, she became The Good Wife on CBS. This legal drama unfolds in the bustling legal world of Chicago. Alicia Florrick (Margulies), navigates the complexities of her personal and professional life in the city’s legal and political arenas.
Chicago P.D. (2014-present)
As fans eagerly await the return of Dick Wolf’s gripping police procedural Chicago P.D. for its eleventh season in 2024, the aftermath of the explosive Season 10 finale has left viewers with a multitude of burning questions. From the fate of Adam Ruzek to the imminent departure of Hailey Upton, the upcoming season promises to deliver a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations.
Chicago P.D. Season 11 premieres Wednesday, January 17 at 9/8c on NBC. Episodes stream next day on Peacock.
This New Year’s Eve, let the sights and sounds of Chicago come alive on your screen with this curated list of movies and TV shows. Whether you’re in the mood for laughter, drama, or a musical journey, Chicago’s cinematic offerings will surely add a touch of Midwestern flair to your celebration.
As you count down to midnight, take a cinematic trip to the Windy City and immerse yourself in the rich storytelling that this iconic metropolis has inspired over the years.
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