The Wire
Gritty exploration of Baltimore's crime and corruption
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About The Wire
Released: 2002
Platform: Hulu
Rating: TVMA
Run time: 1h 0m
Cast
Dominic West, John Doman, Frankie R. Faison, Wood Harris, Domenick Lombardozzi
About The Wire
The Wire is an American crime drama television series that aired from 2002 to 2008. The series is set in Baltimore, Maryland, and explores the city's drug scene from the perspective of both law enforcement and drug dealing gangs. Its narrative unfolds through the eyes of various institutions and their relation to law enforcement, using a different institution as the theme of each season.
Making/Production
Created and primarily written by author and former police reporter David Simon, the series was produced by HBO and is often lauded for its realistic portrayal of society and politics. Many have praised it for its literary themes, intricacy, and ambitious storytelling.
Actors
- Dominic West as Det. James "Jimmy" McNulty: McNulty is a talented detective known for his commitment to the case but is equally infamous for his disregard for the chain of command.
- Idris Elba as Stringer Bell: Stringer is a high-ranking enforcer in the Barksdale Organization who, unlike most players in the drug game, is as adept in business as he is in the street.
- Lance Reddick as Cedric Daniels: A stoic, dedicated, and principled man, Daniels presides over major case units in the Baltimore Police Department.
Trivia/Interesting Facts
- President Obama claimed The Wire to be his favorite television show.
- Many of the actors from The Wire previously appeared in creator David Simon's other series: Homicide, Life on the Street and mini-series: The Corner.
- Despite its critical success, the show was never a significant ratings hit.
Awards
One of the quirks about The Wire's legacy is its lack of major awards. It has only clinched one award, the Directors Guild of America award for Dramatic Series, despite its critical acclaim.
Quotes
- "It's all in the game, yo. All in the game." - Omar Little
- "You cannot lose if you do not play." - Marla Daniels
- "The King stay the King.” - D'Angelo Barksdale
Music/Soundtrack
- The theme song, "Way Down in the Hole", has been performed by different artists including Tom Waits, The Blind Boys of Alabama, and Steve Earle.
- Actual Baltimore Club music, a popular style in the city, is used extensively in the show's fifth season.
- The music on the show is a character of its own, with hymns, gospel songs, and rap featuring prominently in emotional and plot-driven sequences.
About The Wire
The Wire is a raw, gripping show on inner-city drug trafficking and its effects on Baltimore's society, politics, schools, and media.
