Chicago P.D. 10×09 “Proof of Burden” works well as a bookend to the story the show was trying to tell in the first half of this season. It’s just not a very good story, and that’s why the bookend works about as well as the storyline has …which is, not at all. The show still lacks balance, the characters are what the show needs them to be at any given point, even if that never follows any internal logic, and the only thing that can — and should — be elevated about the rest is a cast that, despite it all, continues to deliver outstanding performances.
Because they take turns with the whole spotlight thing, it’s Hailey’s turn, and that means Tracy Spiridakos’ chance to blow us away, once more. It’s not surprising that she manages it, it’s just kinda sad that the show continues to rely on pain to make these characters stand out. No one gets a lasting moment of happiness or processes trauma in a constructive way that allows them to heal. Nah, this is One Chicago, and here we stay in the dumps with our characters …for ten seasons.
Here are some teases for Chicago P.D. 10×09 “Proof of Burden”:
- The entirety of Sean’s storyline has been hard to watch, and this episode is not any easier to stomach.
- For a midseason finale, this episode — by virtue of the story it chose to tell — is more case focused than character-driven, and that means there’s less of an emotional impact throughout.
- Sometimes I wonder if this show really doesn’t notice some of the bad optics or if they just …choose to ignore them. Other times I’m convinced it has to be the second of those options.
- We could consider this episode a choice for Chicago P.D.‘s direction, but then again, they will probably change that in about 3 episodes.
- Tracy Spiridakos has proven time and time what a powerhouse of an actress she is, and she gets a scene in this episode where she effortlessly transmits anger, sadness and fear without even saying a word. It’s criminal that Spiridakos (and Squerciati, while we’re at it), have never gotten any kind of acting recognition. This is a very strong cast in general, but the women consistently hit it out of the park, and they do it while getting some of the hardest storylines to play.
- Upstead went from happily married to crumbs from the last midseason finale to this one, and boy, that hurts.
- Okay, but does Chicago P.D. want me to be like lulz i don’t care or …
- There are moments when it’s obvious that the intent is for you to ignore years of characterization. They never really work, whether they mean for you to ignore good things or bad things. The characters are who they are at this point, and fans know that better than anyone.
- While we’re at it, intent and execution don’t really go hand in hand this hour, and that is especially noticeable in the final scene.
- It goes without saying that the overwhelming feeling coming out of the midseason finale shouldn’t be okay, then.
Are you excited for Chicago P.D. 10×09 “Proof of Burden”? Share with us in the comments below!
Chicago P.D. airs Wednesdays at 10/9c on NBC.
I agree with you concerning the recognition for this show. I think it was a crime that Tracy did not get an Emmy nomination for her performance last season. Unfortunately, the powers that be who determine Emmy nominations have focused almost exclusively on shows that are streamed. While many are deserving of the awards they have received, there needs to be more balance as performances such as Tracy’s are being ignored.
The only thing I agree with is that the entire cast deserves more recognition for their acting, especially Tracy. I do tend to think this fanbase (Upstead fans in particular) tend to conveniently ignore certain things about Jay, Hailey and their faves, while simultaneously crucifying others for doing the same or less. I also think the negativity about this show from Upstead fans since Jay’s departure (and regarding how he was written out, which actually was in character) is getting ridiculous at this point. As an Upstead fan, it’s making me hate other Upstead fans. They’re getting annoying.
As for the crumbs, I’m not sure what people expected. Just like Chicago P.D. wasn’t about Linstead when Erin was around, it’ s not about Upstead either. It’s always been an ensemble show, where the relationships are an added bonus. This is a procedural first and foremost, not the Linstead, Upstead, or Burzek show. I watch for the cases, not the relationships. I just enjoy the relationships as a bonus.
I sure hope they convict Sean, it doesn’t matter what his father says, and who he is.
This is one of the most compelling, gripping storylines that has ever occurred on Chicago PD or any series! And the finale should positively *not* be character driven, except to explain( one hopes) the motives and behaviour of Sean O’Neal. And to give Hailey and other officers a chance to vent some real felt outrage and anger. They should explain several things, including how O’Neal got away all these years, without being detected, or even mildly suspected by anyone in his circle. As I’ve stated elsewhere, there should not be any cheap, throw away climax like Chief O’Neal turning in his son, or Sean himself walking into a police station. That would be grossly unsatisfying, considering how riveting the plotline has been so far. Of course, given Hailey Upton’s personal connection to this case, there has to be some focus on her involvement and inescapable rage toward Sean and his evil doings. But that should be woven into a compelling cat and mouse, battle of wits between Chicago PD and O’Neal. Not an end in itself!