Chicago Fire 12×11 “Inside Man” Review
Chicago Fire Season 12, Episode 11, “Inside Man,” is the spark that’s been missing from the show. It’s exhilarating, anxiety-inducing, and brings all the emotional feels by the end. At the same time, it’s the kind of episode we don’t need too much of these days, so this really isn’t an invitation for more wild concepts like this floating through.
The episode is also an intricate reminder that when the show focuses on building its characters amid the high-stakes drama, the narratives feel that much more rewarding at the end of the day. And, of course, when we focus on the relationships, the episodes feel that much more fun. It reminds viewers that this show is about a found family and a home away from home.
The Secrets That Surface in Chicago Fire 12×11 “Inside Man”
Chicago Fire 12×11 “Inside Man” is a wild ride, but at least Ritter gets to breathe for a minute after revealing his boyfriend’s identity to Violet. The awareness that he’s dating a cop could hopefully bring more room to explore their relationship and see a happier side of him. Simultaneously, it’s lovely that we get a moment like this between the two of them because it feels like it’s been ages since the friends bonded after Gallo left earlier in the season. The bit also gives us more insight into Carver and Violet’s relationship and where she still stands on the no commitments thing, even while there’s a clear desire to pursue something beyond than casual hookups.
However, what hasn’t surfaced yet are Damon’s motives, and now that Ritter has admitted that he was the one who told Kidd about overhearing the conversation, it’s hard not to imagine that there might be retaliation there. He might be sincere in his belief that Firehouse 51 truly is the best, but it’s hard to buy it after last week’s episode.
Stellaride and an Action Romance
It’s fitting that this episode was released while The Fall Guy is in theaters because everything about Stellaride feels like an action romance here. An accidental kidnapping? Check. Kelly calling her so she can overhear a conversation? Check. Fear and uncertainties about his whereabouts? Check. An epic moment where he comes out from the smoke, and she runs to him? Check check. Intentional intimacy to help him recover? Check. In other words, Chicago Fire 12×11 “Inside Man” gives viewers a quick Stellaride romance-centric arc, and it’s the perfect kind of angst that brings out the best of Miranda Mayo and Taylor Kinney’s chemistry.
This is what we’ve been missing with the show—the reminder that in high stakes, something horrific won’t happen, but we could maybe get some exhilarating television that leads to quiet beats of vulnerability. Kelly and Stella are often the best part of the show when they are given moments of tenderness amid all the chaos. The show is better when it focuses on their love and partnership. At the same time, the show is better when it reminds us how deeply everyone at Firehouse 51 cares about each other.
Sometimes, it’s questionable what the show can do and where it can go, but there’s no doubt about the fact that episodes like this are a perfect reminder of when the series is at its best and most exciting.
Now streaming on NBC and Peacock: What are your thoughts on Chicago Fire 12×11 “Inside Man?” Let us know in the comments below.
First Featured Image Credit: ©(Photo by: Adrian Burrows/NBC)