StephanieGBU

I wrote my review and then it didn't "submit' so I lost it. I am going to attempt writing it again because I really stand by what I wrote.

Firstly, as far as this type of noir -- they are often stressful and bad news every turn -- Chicago Calling has ups and downs along the way. So it was far less mundane as similar style noirs. An overall good story.

I always knew Duryea was a wonderful actor, but many films I have seen him in were smaller roles or as one of his slimy heavies. So to see this performance, playing in the sole star role and as a caring and kind fatherly figure, was very believable and moving.

The story moves along with good acting, and appropriate scene lengths, timing, settings, relevance, and fine acting all around. The kids held their own with the adults, particularly Gordon Gebert as Bobby.

It looked worth a watch for the leads - they are talented.

But after sitting in my queue briefly I just had to start it rolling because of the cutie dogs. Back in NY I fell for Rotties because when I met one on a stroll, they always looked me in the eye and then gently licked the back of my hand. A kiss is way better than a sniff. ;) Since, I have had a couple, and boy are they sweet. (except when they are protecting; though in my experience it's more of a warning than an actual attack)

Anyway, I do want to add that I think the 7.8 - perhaps some disappointed watchers? - is due to the long serious monologues. But then I haven't read through what the "complaints" are.

I have liked every bit of the series thus far. The twists and the story coming out in bits are a satisfying bait.

Compare it to a book that once started, have a hard time putting down.

He could have just as easily not made "it" like so many who work hard against the odds do(n't).

I loved watching these performances - Glenn & Amy, et al were just terrific putting on those shoes. The drama rarely does stop in this kind of family dysfunction.

But I agree with other commenters - learning that Vance is so far Right and running against Tim Ryan, just made me spin. It is unfortunate to be so one sided, don't vote for Republican Senators in Ohio (or anywhere, for that matter). Because the they are against the life of Democracy and our Contitution.

I quote a commenter that stood out to me: "to pretend that one straight white guy's ability to rise above his surroundings means that there's no excuse for everyone else not to have done so as well.

It says nothing of the proud people that remain in these communities and persevere, what they're up against, how it got to this point in the first place, what could or should be done.."

The mother w/no health insurance - We need to get Medicaid For All. Not a Right Wing concept.

I imagine Vance is one of those who believes the names he was called as a child for anyone who didn't overcome all the obstacles, and he isn't in politics to help those who really need it. Didn't he get help? He didn't do it all alone, no one does.

I think Howard and Taylor brought the humanity to the big picture of film. The struggle - love your family or yourself. One doesn't have to outweigh the other. And the actors re-imagined the people.