Watch City So Real

City So Real is a docu-series that takes a deep dive into the political and cultural landscape of Chicago during the 2019 mayoral election. The show gives an unfiltered and raw look at the various issues the city and its inhabitants face, including issues surrounding race, class, politics, and gentrification. The series is directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Steve James, who also directed the documentary film "Hoop Dreams."

The show consists of five episodes, each focusing on a different aspect of the election and the city itself. Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to a wide range of people, from the candidates running for mayor to the everyday citizens who call Chicago home.

One of the main storylines of the show is the mayoral race, which is one of the most competitive in the city's history. The series follows the various candidates as they campaign across the city, trying to win over voters and secure their spot as the next mayor. The candidates include current mayor Rahm Emanuel, who is running for reelection, as well as several challengers, including former police superintendent Garry McCarthy and community organizer Amara Enyia.

In addition to the mayoral race, the show also explores the various issues facing the city, including gentrification, police brutality, and racial inequality. The series takes a deep dive into some of the neighborhoods that have been hit hardest by these issues, including the West Side and South Side. Through interviews with residents and community leaders, viewers get a sense of the challenges facing these neighborhoods and the people who live there.

One of the most striking aspects of the show is its honesty and authenticity. The series doesn't shy away from controversial topics, and it doesn't sugarcoat the issues facing the city. Instead, it presents a nuanced and complex view of Chicago and its people, offering a window into the lives of those who call the city home.

Throughout the series, viewers are also introduced to several notable Chicagoans, including Chance the Rapper, who endorses Amara Enyia for mayor, and former Chicago Bulls player Toni Kukoc, who runs a shrimp business on the city's south side. These interviews give viewers a glimpse into the lives of these individuals and show how they are impacted by issues facing the city.

In addition to the main storyline of the mayoral race, the show also explores several side stories, such as the aftermath of the murder of Laquan McDonald, a black teenager who was shot 16 times by a white police officer, and the impact of the city's decision to close dozens of schools in predominantly black and Latino neighborhoods.

Overall, City So Real is a powerful and compelling series that offers a rare and unfiltered look at the political and cultural landscape of Chicago. Through its in-depth exploration of the issues facing the city and its people, the show offers a nuanced and complex view of one of America's most iconic cities. Whether you're interested in politics, social justice, or simply want to learn more about Chicago and the people who live there, City So Real is a must-watch series that will leave you thinking long after the final credits roll.

City So Real is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between October 29, 2020 and on National Geographic Channel