10 Things The Wire Fans Couldn’t Get Enough Of
1. The Real Villain (The System)
A staple of The Wire is its dedication to highlighting the true villain in the story: The System.
No character holds greater importance than another, each has their own merits and motivations because they are all wrestling to succeed against the oppressive nature of the true antagonist, the system.
No matter the setting, whether it be gang, law enforcement, media or otherwise, the system is designed to aid the powerful and keep the run down areas of society struggling.
Littered throughout the show we see countless examples of parallel living between the supposed good guys and the supposed bad guys. Carcetti's treacherous tussle to the top of the political world - a plucky young and innocent candidate who is forced to eventually succumb to mischievous tactics to reach his position - is presented as no different to Bodie having to oust a competitor to win the affection of his superior on the street corner.
The system is designed for people to fail. Based on numbers and stats the leadership aren't in it for the greater good. Major Colvin and his "Amsterdam" trick is perhaps the greatest example.
It's tough to win in an unwinnable situation, and The Wire highlights this elegantly, leaving fans with something to discuss ad nauseam, but also crafting a relatable narrative for many people who saw themselves mirrored in part's of the show.
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