Haven't seen political drama this good since the West Wing. While the show maybe heavy-handed, it does always come off as having a one foot in reality. I've lived in the Chicago area my whole life, and while maybe our politicians don't murder people, they have historically been the most corrupt, period. My wife and I are hooked on this program. Love how well-rounded the characters are. I didn't realize until now how character driven the show is compared to plot driven. I guess that's why we're going to keep hearing "Wire" comparisons. Overall, I would say "Boss" is a nitty, gritty West Wing, but with Tony Soprano playing the 'president'.
I'm also a huge fan of Ryan and the "Shield", but this show does a much better job of showing not just the Chicago political machine, but also of showing Chicago. Sometimes the "Code" seems like it's just name-dropping things for "authenticity". Another thing that "Boss" does better -- dropping the exaggerated "chicaggah" accent. Most of us don't have it.
I'm also a huge fan of Ryan and the "Shield", but this show does a much better job of showing not just the Chicago political machine, but also of showing Chicago. Sometimes the "Code" seems like it's just name-dropping things for "authenticity". Another thing that "Boss" does better -- dropping the exaggerated "chicaggah" accent. Most of us don't have it.