Chicago is one of the greatest classics, not only on Broadway but in the history of cinema overall. The 2002 film, based on the musical of the same name, revitalized the musical genre in film and contributed to its resurgence in the 2000s.
Directed by Rob Marshall, the film was filled with A-list stars, including a legend who was also part of the original stage production: Chita Rivera. The acclaimed actress starred alongside Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
The cinematic version employs a distinctive visual style, combining extravagant dance numbers with theatrical elements. The blending of reality and fantasy is a hallmark, earning it Oscar nominations.
How to watch Chicago online
Chicago is a classic that will be remembered forever, both in the musical industry and on Broadway, so there is never a wrong time to watch it. Currently, you can find it on the Prime Video and Max catalogs if you have a subscription.
If not, you can also watch it for free on Fubo. You just have to sign up to start using the free trial week in the United States, and you’re all set. You can find it in the search bar or through the drama/musical section.
After the trial week, the subscription will cost you $91.99 per month. Meanwhile, Amazon costs $8.99 monthly (after the trial month), and Max is approximately $9.99 per month. Each one varies depending on the user’s plan.
What is Chita Rivera’s role in Chicago?
Chita Rivera was not only one of the leading stars in the Chicago musical, which was one of the biggest hits in Broadway history. She played the role of Velma Kelly, who is part of the group of women in jail for murder, in the original production in 1975.
Chita Rivera in Chicago. (Source: IMDb)
The film is based on the musical, and the Broadway legend had a small cameo in the 2002 cinematic adaptation. There, she portrayed Nickie, the first inmate Roxie Hart (an aspiring showbiz star seeking fame and media attention after committing a crime) interacts with in jail.
The story of the movie is set in the 1920s in Chicago and follows Roxie Hart, an aspiring dancer who kills her lover and is imprisoned. In prison, she encounters vaudeville star Velma Kelly, who is also incarcerated for murder. Both women compete for media attention and the favor of their slick lawyer, Billy Flynn, as they struggle to prove their innocence and avoid the gallows.
