'Chicago' is considered the best film made by Rob Marshall, famously known for his directorial work on 'Chicago', which was a major contender during its Oscar year, despite competition like 'Sorority Boys'. The movie adapts the Broadway musical creatively, with Renee Zellweger playing Roxy Hart, a woman arrested for her lover's murder. In prison, she befriends Velma Kelly, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones, both aspiring to captivate the judge and jury akin to a stage audience. Billy Flynn, portrayed by Richard Gere, is their lawyer skilled in dazzling the courtroom with showmanship.
The film stands out by confidently embracing its identity as a musical, unlike earlier film musicals that seemed apologetic about their musical roots. Marshall's film takes a clever approach by showcasing events from Roxy's perspective – she dreams of musical stardom, influencing how she views her world. This approach stems from Marshall's stage direction experience, enhancing the narrative without diverging from the original's spirit.
Despite cutting some original musical numbers, like 'Class', which had limited narrative necessity but was entertaining, 'Chicago' still delivers powerful musical sequences. The film transitions between reality and Roxy's glamorous illusions seamlessly, offering insightful commentary on the entertainment world's allure. Musical numbers are upfront and engaging; 'Cell Block Tango' marks a pivotal moment, elevating the film's impact and gripping audiences.
Performance-wise, the cast excels, particularly Zeta-Jones, whose high-energy portrayal won her an Oscar. Zellweger delivers a layered Roxy, mixing ambition with naivety, while John C. Reilly and other cast members provide memorable performances. Gere's role, while competent, lacks the dynamism seen in other potential casting choices suggested by writer Roger Ebert.
A minor critique is the film's title, 'Chicago', perhaps misleading for its limited depiction of the city’s iconic elements, focusing more on the theatrical narrative. Despite this, 'Chicago' remains a visually and thematically captivating adaptation, emblematic of Marshall's directorial vision. Its ability to merge music with storytelling makes it a standout in the musical genre, enticing viewers with its undeniable charm and inventive execution.