Chicago Fire 12×04 “The Little Things” Spoilers Ahead
In more ways than one, Chicago Fire Season 12, Episode 4, “The Little Things,” is about the small, sneaking details that become bigger than we ever thought possible. We see it in little Julia’s presence; it comes alive in proof form through Severide’s efforts, and it shines with a striking glow in Carver and Violet’s burgeoning relationship.
The show will always feature far more drama than is necessary, but it continues to remind us of its tremendous warmth in the quiet moments during an episode commendably titled to represent something more significant. There’s still an odd, bittersweet feeling lingering in the air this season, and what that means, only time will tell, but here, we get to breathe a little easier as characters wedding prep and put out fires.
Chicago Fire 12×04 “The Little Things” Continues to Develop Violet and Carver
Violet and Carver are quietly becoming a little too cute to handle, and in Chicago Fire 12×04 “The Little Things,” it’s entirely because of Ritter’s reaction to them. Daniel Kyri does something incredibly moving in this episode solely with his facial expressions, mirroring so much of what viewers feel when it comes to Violet. No one knows how much she’s been through the way Ritter has. No one has walked through the fires right alongside her, rooting for her happiness like it’s his own. And with a single expression, Kyri shows us how much Ritter sees and how happy he is for her.
There’s a softness in that final scene that’s isolated from the fact that both Carver and Violet are playing with baby Julia. Yes, scenes like this could always melt any shipper’s heart, but it’s the second chance at happiness that Ritter sees that makes it all worth it. With this in mind, we can’t dismiss Carver’s softness either and the efforts he’s putting in to show not only Violet how present he is but Stella, too. (How is this the same man I was convinced wouldn’t last a single season on this show? Say it with me—character development.) It’s becoming more and more gorgeous with every episode to watch these two move around their feelings and deem their hookups as mere attempts to “get it out of their systems.” Anyone who’s read a romance novel knows that the opposite happens every single time.
Violet Mikami is an incredibly special character, and she has been from the very first moment she stepped onto our screens. What she’s been through, no human should have to experience, and on a show like Chicago Fire, we can’t always guarantee that such pain won’t happen again. Still, Carver and Violet could be such a great pair if the show finally allows her a chance at happiness that prevails. The wholesome, flirty bits are working wonders, and I can’t wait to see the series dive into more moments of vulnerability with them.
Boden’s Dad Duties Will Forever Be a Gift From the Show
Chief Boden is, in more ways than one, the very heart of Chicago Fire. He’s the character whose presence consistently brings something comforting and warm in an otherwise heavy series. And as an episode that focused on weightier topics with kids, it was refreshing to get more of Boden and his kids. In Chicago Fire 12×04, Boden’s son deals with the ramifications of having a father who’s not always there and a mother who’s going to prison. It’s a challenge that will result in massive crosses to bear, but how Boden handles it and starts the first steps of being more present for his kids the way he is for Firehouse 51 is no small feat.
There’s also the matter of agreeing to officiate Brett and Casey’s wedding, which feels natural and earned considering his closeness to Casey once upon a time. Much of this also boils down to how great of a role Cruz continues to take on, with an unnecessary dramatic plot point about lost wedding invitations. But, eh. The team continues to be an excellent example of how teams should be, and much of it results from their leader. It’s because of Boden, and anytime the showrunners decide to highlight that, it results in an episode that will be remembered.
Chicago Fire 12×04 “The Little Things” deals with the undersized changes necessary to showcase that these characters are consistently learning. Nothing ever features an easy road to walk through, and it shouldn’t have to be. Instead, life is about milestones—big or small—that push people toward the places they’re meant to go.
Further Thoughts
- Hermann’s face when he realized the baby was lost was everything.
- Carver flirting is a sight to behold.
- Severide texting and making an effort? PROGRESS.
- Baby Julia is the cutest!
- Okay, but how did Cruz get the invitation back? Did he go tell the guy that he was uninvited???!
Now streaming on NBC and Peacock: What are your thoughts on Chicago Fire 12×04 “The Little Things?” Let us know in the comments below.
First Featured Image Credit: (Photo by: Adrian S Burrows Sr/NBC)