The 2002 screen adaptation of the hit musical “Chicago” was a massive sensation, earning over $306 million globally and becoming the first musical since 1968 to win best picture, in addition to five other Oscars. But, how did “Chicago” revive the musical film genre and become the raging success that it is today? From razzle-dazzling, stage-style musical numbers to a bitter and tragic truth revealed through its satirical storytelling, here is what made “Chicago” second to none.
First and foremost, the cast was truly notable. Renée Zellweger portrayed the ambitious Roxie Hart like no one else could, capturing both Roxie’s desperation and desires, to give a performance that forced audiences to sympathize with an unsympathetic character. Catherine Zeta-Jones also delivered a top-notch performance as Velma Kelly, earning her a Golden Globe for best supporting actress. Richard Gere stole the show in his role as Billy Flynn, displaying Flynn’s seductive charisma.
Another aspect that made this movie so successful was its well-thought-out musical scenes. All of the film’s musical numbers were performed in a vaudeville stage style, with each song characterized by a unique flair. “All That Jazz” mimicked the feel and style of a jazz club, “Razzle Dazzle” had a circus-esque theme, “Mr. Cellophane” was modeled after a clown performance, and “We Both Reached For The Gun” was a ventriloquist act, to name a few.
The message of “Chicago” was also credited for making it such a hit. Its storyline was filled to the brim with dark 1920s themes that still have relevance today. Most of the show depicted characters treating the American legal system like a big branch of show business. This was shown blatantly in the “Razzle Dazzle” number, when Roxie’s murder trial was represented by Flynn as a literal circus, demonstrating that the act of standing trial for murder was simply one gargantuan performance. The film showed that, with enough media attention, fame, and bribery, one could literally get away with murder. This is what was so remarkable about the film’s messaging: a dark, dismal truth was revealed to audiences in such a magnificent way.
Ultimately, “Chicago” was a sparkling, glamorous sensation, critiquing the American obsession with sensationalism by blurring the lines between stage and trial. Wheaton Warrenville South High School will be performing its own rendition of this beloved classic on stage, May 7 through May 9.
