tv CNN, Robert Redford team for 'Chicagoland' doc

[V-Tech]

The city of Chicago is set for an extended spotlight, courtesy of CNN and producer Robert Redford.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the two have agreed to team up on an extended documentary series on the Windy City, with Redford's Sundance Productions producing the eight part project.

"Chicagoland" is scheduled to begin airing early next year, with the goal of the series to give viewers an in-depth look at its key residents and city leaders in order to "explore where politics and policy meet real people's lives -- in a city generating change and innovation in social policy, education and public safety."

Redford stated that Chicago is a unique city with its own vibrant energy and "a rhythm all its own... The vibrant culture and opportunities inherent in this 21st century, world-class city run alongside profound daily challenges," he said. "Much of it falls on the shoulders of its tough, visionary mayor, his team and people doing heroic work in neighborhoods throughout the city."

The series no doubt is part of CNN's overall goal toward bringing in new original programming. Vinnie Malhotra, senior vice president of development and acquisitions at CNN stated, "'Chicagoland' will be shared with CNN's global audience -- and supported by supplemental reporting on the critical issues explored in the series."

Source: http://www.tvrage.com/news/6532/cnn-robert-redford-team-for-chicagoland-doc