Chicago Fire: “Pilot/Mon Amour” (Episodes 1.01/1.02)
Photo courtesy of Matt Dinerstein, NBC
Over its first two episodes in existence, Chicago Fire has proven one thing: it’s run-of-the-mill and proud of it. The pilot presents a straightforward introduction to a group of firefighters and paramedics in a Chicago firehouse filled with inner turmoil and dark secrets. It’s what you’ve come to expect from ensemble shows that take place in an intense workplace, a la Grey’s Anatomy.
Like many shows like that, this one will obviously rely on viewers falling in love with and feeling for the characters. While Chicago Fire might be a little too basic for today’s viewers who like highly original dramas, the cast does as good of a job as they can and have an energy that has the potential to draw in a small, loyal fan base.
House’s Jesse Spencer tries his hand at an American accent playing Lieutenant Matthew Casey, a straight-laced firefighter who recently lost a friend and colleague in a fire. Former best friend Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) blames Casey for the loss and to make matters worse, Casey’s relationship with his doctor girlfriend, Hallie (Teri Reeves), is going through a rough patch with no light at the end of the tunnel. Kelly has his own demons, of course, and is secretly taking steroids.
Then there’s Peter Mills (Charlie Barnett), a rookie candidate eager to fit in. He’s the wide-eyed kid who just wants to save lives. There’s always a character who serves as a gap between the profession we’re seeing on screen and the viewers who might not understand what it takes to be a firefighter. He’s an interesting character with potential.