Velma and Roxie develop a bad relationship, with Velma at the most part the cause of this occurrence. She does not like Roxie, as she is not only stealing her limelight, but also her lawyer, Billy Flynn. Billy takes Roxie’s case, and alters her story for tabloid columnist Mary Sunshine, who sympathises with the murderesses. Billy actually dictates a new version of the truth in Roxie’s press conference. It seems to turn into a ventriloquist act with Roxie mouthing the words. To make matters worse, Roxie becomes the new toast of Chicago, and Velma is left forgotten about. Velma tries to talk Roxie into the recreation of her original sister act, but Roxie rejects the offer. Later however, she finds her own headlines are replaced by the latest crime. Velma and Roxie soon realise that they can rely on nobody but herself, which is when Roxie decides that becoming pregnant in Prison would put her back on the front page.
Velma can’t believe how lucky Roxie has been, despite her obvious falsehoods. Amos then proudly claims paternity, however nobody notices him. Velma then desperately tries to show Billy all the tricks that she has planned for her trial. Billy should not be trusted, as he then passes all of Velma’s ideas to Roxie. Billy consequently gets Roxie her acquittal as promised, but even more sensational crime occurs as the verdict is given, and Roxie’s popularity in the press is over. Now as she is left in the dust also, she teams up with Velma in the sister act, and they dance until the entire company joins them for the Grand Finale.
This plot is filled with vile, reprehensible characters that prosper because of their sins, instead of being punished. Roxie gains the celebrity she desires even after committing adultery and murder. Flynn is successful in all his endeavours of subverting the legal system and manipulating the truth. Simply for his own benefit. Even the character Velma profits. It seems to only be Amos, who is humiliated and victimised in every scene, that is the only likeable character in the film.
Chicago leads the audience to re-experience similarities in reality they have witnessed, to feel those same emotions whilst witnessing the same occurrences in the movie. Chicago is a deeply affecting film.
The musical includes many well-performed musical numbers, and well choreographed dance pieces. It is an extremely entertaining film, which I believe keeps the viewer interested.
To conclude, I believe Chicago is a film of utter excellence, and should be watched by everyone who shows an interest in musicals.
