Re-viewing the city.

Other than solid pitch-count management and Gustav Flaubert, there are few pleasures greater in life than Michael Mann movies — not least because of the design. Think the neon-glowing Los Angeles of Collateral, the glowing cutting torch of Thief or Colin Farrell's innovative stubble/handlebar combo in Miami Vice.

Recently, I Netflixed the beginning of Michael Mann's Chicago-set TV series Crime Story. It yielded the expected pleasures — tough guys, car chases, ill-advised romance — but the design was an unexpected treat. The first episode involved a car chase down the Dan Ryan, and most of the buildings are still standing; the credits even roll over an image of the famous Superdawg stand at Milwaukee and Devon.

The show takes place in early-'60s Chicago and meticulously recreates the design and architecture of the period. Just check out the opening credits for a loving replica of a different time, one full of brilliant neon design and clean modernist lines, much of which is around us. —Sam, Content Manager