Chicagoland

Chicagoland is an eight-part documentary series that offers an unfiltered, vérité-style look into the complex social, political, and educational dynamics of one of America’s most iconic cities. Filmed during a critical moment in Chicago’s modern history, the series follows Mayor Rahm Emanuel, local leaders, and everyday citizens as they confront the city’s most urgent challenges — from gun violence and public school closures to economic inequality and police-community tensions.

Created by Robert Redford and the team behind Brick City, Chicagoland captures the high-stakes balancing act of governing a diverse, divided metropolis, while also highlighting the determination, resilience, and activism of its people. The result is a raw and compelling portrait of a city in flux — and a nation grappling with the same issues on a broader scale.

Overview Credits Watch Reviews Seasons Images Videos Recommendations Similar

Created By	Robert Redford
Status	Ended
Original Name	Chicagoland
First Air Date	June 3, 2014
Last Air Date	June 3, 2014
Seasons	1
Episodes	1
Episode Runtime	0min
Language	English
Original Language	English
Production Countries	—
Production Companies
Networks

S01E01

The New Boss

Written By CNN In America's heartland, Chicago confronts a crisis faced by many cities across the U.S. - can it save its kids in its schools and on its streets? Following his own advice to "never let a crisis go to waste," Mayor Rahm Emanuel maps out the largest school closings in U.S. history - sparking angry citywide protests. On the South Side, the principal of Fenger High School, Elizabeth Dozier, fights for her students as citywide budget cuts threaten to end the programs that are making a positive difference in Fenger's attendance and achievement measures. First Lady Michelle Obama visits Chicago for a fundraiser and reflects on life choices, her own South Side youth, and the recent death of young Hadiya Pendleton. And, Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy coaches the Chicago Police Department (CPD) as they battle gangs and guns to lower the city's murder rate.

View Episodes