Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 5: “Down the Rabbit Hole” – A Missed Opportunity
Chicago Fire’s thirteenth season continues to unfold, but Episode 5, titled “Down the Rabbit Hole,” serves as a reminder that even the best shows can falter. While not a complete disaster, this episode ranks among the weaker installments of the season, largely due to a storyline that stretches the limits of plausibility and leaves viewers feeling frustrated.
In this episode, Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide delve into the murky waters of an unethical trucking company linked to a series of accidents. Stella’s mission to persuade a driver to testify against her boss creates a sense of tension, but the underlying plot is predictable and lacks the excitement fans have come to expect. Meanwhile, Christopher Herrmann recruits a new member of Engine to help advocate for improved radios, but the most engaging story arc revolves around Violet Mikami and Sam Carver—a subplot that may leave audiences longing for resolution.
The episode mirrors the structure of previous strong arcs, particularly Severide’s arson investigations, but falters by focusing on an accident case that lacks originality. From the moment the trucking company boss, Maddox, enters the scene, it’s clear he is the antagonist, leading to a series of predictable hurdles for Stella and Severide.
Lisa, the driver they seek to help, hesitates to speak out due to fear of losing her job, and the case stalls when the Department of Transportation is unable to assist. The most thrilling moment occurs when Stella discovers Lisa’s injured son at Maddox’s building, providing a brief spark before the narrative settles back into its comfortable predictability.
Amidst the unfolding drama, Chief Dom Pascal succinctly encapsulates Stella’s fiery spirit when he describes her as “a hell of a pain in the ass,” a statement that reflects both humor and truth. Miranda Rae Mayo shines in moments that showcase Stella’s determination, reminding viewers of her strengths beyond her romantic ties to Severide.
In stark contrast to Stellaride’s robust partnership, the relationship between Violet and Carver feels tangled and overstretched. The introduction of Tori adds unnecessary complexity to their dynamic, particularly after the emotional progress made in Season 13, Episode 4. Carver’s hesitance to confront his feelings leads to a frustrating cycle of indecision, as he bounces between the two women without making a clear choice. This subplot is compounded by the arrival of Flynn, a new character who further complicates matters, suggesting that Violet and Carver’s arcs are stagnating.
On a lighter note, Christopher Herrmann brings some much-needed comic relief to the episode. David Eigenberg’s performance elevates the narrative as he rallies support for better radios, showcasing his ability to infuse humor into even the most mundane of missions. The camaraderie between him and the other characters, particularly Katelyn Shennett’s Kylie, adds a welcome layer of enjoyment.
Interestingly, humor also emerges from Chief Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney, as he navigates the quirks of Firehouse 51. The interactions between Pascal, Ritter, and Novak provide a light-hearted counterbalance to the episode’s heavier themes.
In summary, “Down the Rabbit Hole” feels like a missed opportunity for Chicago Fire. While it features familiar dynamics and moments of levity, the overarching storylines—particularly the Violet-Carver-Tori triangle—fail to captivate. With a season that has showcased more compelling narratives, this episode serves as a reminder that not every installment can hit the mark.