I love how John Spencer plays that moment too. He almost doesn't smile just this tiny tug of his lips, just pauses in his usual routine of leaving the office, just for a second. Great actor.
The original idea for the show is that we were supposed to see Sheen very infrequently. That was cast aside with his "I AM THE LORD THY GOD, THOU SHALT HAVE NO GODS BEFORE ME" intro.
Imagine accidentally overhearing your best friend saying that about you. Imagine that your best friend is also President of the United States. And all you do is secretly put that feather in your cap and walk away.
I actually thought he knew he was there when he glanced to his left before and after his little best friend speech. I think he was telling Leo how he felt without actually telling him. I feel that is even more powerful than if he truly did not know Leo was there. Imagine being able to sing your best friend's praises under the guise of invisibility?
@@markdziadulewicz6160 You read way too much into that. He didn't see Leo. The reason for the scene was that Leo hear Bartlett's comments without Bartlett knowing it.
Bartlett may not have seen Leo...but he did see the red light that let him know the camera was on when he let something slip out he wasn't supposed to say, but wanted it out there. so who knows....I've had big bosses who pretended to not be aware of what was going on, but could hear from across the room things workers were dumb enough to say out loud. Its how they became the big boss.
I like how he took this seriously and didn't just tell the guy, this is just something we have to do. Really showed he believed in him if the worst were to happen.
"Do you have a best friend?" "Yes sir." "Is he (she) smarter than you?" (*laughing) "Yes sir." "Would you trust him (her) with your life?" (*NOT laughing) "...Yes sir." "That's your chief of staff." Tears Sadness Depression Hope Trust Waiting Readiness
*Next Scene* Open on the building exploding, and Roger making his first call to his Best Friend, John "I need you at the White House, you're the new Chief of Staff" Smith
maybe. but please do not compare TWW with Designated Survivor (I watch it every week, so i know what i'm talking about). It' like compare diamond and plastic.
I'm starting to be very disappointed with Designated Survivor. I think I was hoping for another West Wing, but you are right. It is comparing a Mercedes with a Pinto. Lol
While there cannot be a possible comparison, I wonder if Keith Sutherland watched this episode before they started filming or if in the show, the President gave him that same speech before the fatal State of the Union.
"You got a best friend?" "Yes sir." "Is he smarter than you?" "Yes sir." "Would you trust him with your life?" "Yes sir." "That's your chief of staff."
RetroGuy76 in the political arena being a master politician is having the superior intelligence. You can be a genius and still have no clue on how to bring people together. Leo knew what it took. He recognized the attributes that a great leader needed to posses. That kind of insight doesn't come from I.Q. only. But a good mix of E.Q. too.
Wonderful the way he takes the time to make the guy understand that though he has been asked a really simple and boring thing, i.e. stay away from a party, he's performing a well-defined and potentially crucial function for the lawful running of the country. Making people understand that their jobs are important was central to the character Bartlet.
I live in south korea. But this is my best tv show ever. Our country have history of dictatorship, but we used to fight for democracy. I wish that tradition keep survive in our people's mind.
My favorite scene from my favorite show of all time. I have watched the series 8 times all the way through and this scene dozens of time. I think it is the most moving scene I have ever seen. Twenty years later and I am still choked up. Thank you Aaron and Martin and John (and crew).
I need these from time to time. I miss this kind of intelligence in TV these days. The scripts for West Wing were superb, which is why they continue to inspire me today. Sometimes, when I need a lift I reach back for them.
This was a supremely touching scene showing just how much Jed appreciates Leo, but I'm also silently freaking out because President Bartlet just let the Mayor of Sunnydale into his office! The world is doomed!
I have the entire series on dvd thankfully. I watch it once a year. There aren't a lot of the episodes that don't bring tears to my eyes and that odd feeling in my heart when I think about how much I love our country. I loved this show SO much!
A beautiful vision of what a president can be like. Humbly forceful and by so being, recognizes and brings out the courage in others. Let's hope this day will come and the current abborition is only but a passing fascination with disgrace by a people that should know better. "We do these things not because they are easy, but because they are hard." -JFK
@@tokyworld except, he wasn't. He was supremely arrogant. He was constantly plagued by his fears and uncertainties. He was wrathful when stirred to it. And, above all else, he lied to the american people. He was extremely flawed. But he more than made up for it with his many qualities: his insatiable curiousity, his depth and breadth of knowledge, his good will toward others, and his willingness to put the duties of his position beyond anything else; even his own conscience at times. He was far, far from an ideal president. But that's what made him such a good character.
I disagree. He wasn't an idealized president, just one who understood his duty. As far as being infallible... again I disagree. Bartlett made many mistakes and at times was the consummate politician... making decisions for purely political/partisan ends.
Every time I watch this scene, I am reminded of how much I LOVED this series. As for President Bartlett - Like Daniel J Travanti's "Captain Furillo" in Hill Street Blues... We can only wish that there is someone like that making the decisions...
@@redlightmax 2018 and the news just gets worse and worse. The doctor says to the patient I have good news and bad news. Patient, Give me the bad news Doctor, we amputated your legs by mistake Patient Jesus Christ What's the good news. Doctor, A guy in the next ward wants to buy your slippers. I'm from Ireland and just can't believe what is happening in America.I'm not sure how far the bar can be lowered but we may need a shovel.
There are Jed Bartlett's out there. But amerikan politics have become SO unspeakably toxic, they want nothing to do with high offices like the presidency, and the skulduggery necessary to obtain those offices. Consequently, we end up with insufferable sociopath's like the former guy. It's a goddamn shame. To say the least.
I mean, could there possibly ever been or ever will be a greater show than The West Wing. Every minute, and seemingly insignificant, scene is done with such grace and elegance.
Here's the thing: the Secretary knew the President could translate it, otherwise he wouldn't have asked him -- it's an inside joke. In fact, the Secretary likely translated it himself in order to highlight the State of the Union section that he asked the President to read. Shows the Secretary has intellect as well. Even in the smallest roles, the show did this kind of thing all the time. That's why it was so great. I love it.
Recently on a lark, I decided to read the transcript for the Pilot of the West Wing. I read all the characters, making my own interpretations at certain points, sticking to the originals at others, and despite juggling multiple characters and the breakneck pace of the dialogue, I think I did a pretty good job the my attempt at a performance. Until I got to Bartlet. I could not, absolutely could not come close to replicating the... the everything that made Bartlet Bartlet. His wisdom, his kindness, his love for his friends and family, his righteous fury, his faith in his God and his fellow man, I tried and fell so, so far short of imitating Martin Sheen's performance. Seriously, this guy had the best performance in the history of television, over the likes of Kelsey Grammer, Bryan Cranston, James Gandolfini, Peter Dinklage.
After every time I watch Trump's press conference on T.V., I have to watch a snippet from West wing for my head to stop spinning. I need this fiction to reduce the suffering inflicted by reality.
"He shall from time to time... " I wonder how many people have actually read The Constitution of the United States? It's an easy read, a great introduction to American Studies and a tremendous work of literature -- and the governing document of our Republic. And yes, "he shall from time to time..." --30--
@@Ulleskelf Similar to us here in the US with the Magna Carta in my case! Though given I don't read Latin like Bartlett, I had to use a translation. Even translated it was a bit dry, but it was actually quite fun to read and pull apart the intent behind each line.
It can be read in its entirety in approx. 15 minutes. The know-nothing blabbermouths like Greene and Boebert would never tire their mediocre brains by actually READING this superb document. After all, reading is hard.
Best show ever! I wish America was like this now and we still had faith in our elected officials to do what they promised to do once they were elected.
I love this scene. It does give light to those some consider "lower" on the Cabinet totem pole but I also love it because you see the respect Jeb has for those who he chose to work in his cabinet. And the present just makes the scene. It's a perfect gift for him. Great scene!
In a great show full of great writing, great acting and great moments, this to me was the one I think about when I remember this show. Leo'd let a recurring personal issue back into his life, and you had to wonder if his career was on the line. But learning how Jed felt about him in the way he did spoke to love and loyalty. Yea...kinda got to me too.
this fucking show was something else man. Every episode has a monent that takes nearly every other show ever made an entire season to build up to. Phenomenal.
It's bittersweet that He Shall From Time to Time doesn't just denote the State of the Union but also allude to the fact that due to MS, he shall have those episodes from time to time
Many of my fellow Brits dislike America and I'll admit its politics has become stressed and run down, but looking at the foundations of the republic with the constitution and how well written it is, it is a nation that still deserves worldwide respect
I once stole his quote for a scene between a Starfleet Captain and his Chief Engineer. He was leaving on an away mission with his first officer (a Vulcan naturally) and Chief Medical Officer, and he was giving his Chief Engineer command. Captain Abel MacKenzie: “If anything happens you gather all of your department heads in the conference room, alert Starfleet Command, raise the shields and arm weapons... You got a best friend on this ship?” Lt. Commander Nadia Tokarev: “Yes sir.” Captain Abel MacKenzie: “Are they smarter than you?” Lt. Commander Nadia: (chuckling) “Yes sir.” Captain Abel MacKenzie: “Would you trust them with your life?” Lt. Commander Nadia: “Yes sir.” Captain Abel MacKenzie: “That’s your First Officer.” Not much but better than the Abrams films or Discovery.
One of many moments, do truely miss this show. It's a good moment with got a best friend, he smarter than you, do you trust him with you life....and then with the giggle of the bathroom handle, LOL. Wish Aaron Sorkin would do another show.
This is also one of my favourite scenes, but there are many. Just as with the magnificent pre-credits scene in 17 people, the tone of the orchestra beuatifully accompanies Leo's reaction. And, as always, the writing is breathtaking. Bartlett does not ask him 'Who would be your Chief of Staff?', he just asks him, 'You gotta best friend?' - the synthesis of emotive language and politics-speak that Sorkin incorporates is majestical. As you say, Jed, people have phenomenal capacity.
I love the fact that there where paintings of George Washington and Theodore Roosevelt blurred in the background of both actors. Very fitting. Great show.
I love that the actor for the Designated Survivor (not the show, but possibly the basis) was also the demonic snake mayor who got blown up on Buffy. And he was filming episodes for both at the same time!
Thanks for uploading this. Earlier I picked this vid as a fav befor and it was removed. This scene touches me, I consider my best friend smarter than me, and a person I trust. I am lucky to have his friendship, and I a value it with all my heart.
I have always wanted to run for public office. I'm actually getting pretty close to starting my first attempt at local government. The goal as a child was to be president. But I'm realistic enough to know that may not happen one day. I can shoot for it, but I still want to serve my country. I watch this scene and I think about my best friend, James.
There are some good shows on TV these days, but none of them come close to the level this show was at. It won Best Drama at the emmys for five straight years for a reason! Why Sorkin isn't given the keys to a network and allowed to make whatever show he wants is beyond me, the man makes great television.
I've known of the "Designated Survivor" requirement for many years. But until now, I've never really thought about what it must be like to be that person, sitting in that Office, waiting... waiting... waiting... just in case the unthinkable happens.
wickedpissa25 if somehow, I ever end up being the designated survivor, I would be praying to all Gods, all religious figures and all religions that nothing goes horribly wrong and I am not elevated to that position at that time.
Was there or has there been anything better on TV than this? This show got me through the first half of this decade. I was watching it Sydney Australia the night of 9/11. A priceless piece of television.
This is one of my all time favourite scenes, and that is a big ask for this top, top show...and I would have loved to see more of the Secretary of Agriculture....and just imagine being in The Oval Office, knowing if, God forbids, anything should happen, you'll be caretaker President....and don't get me started on the music that so compliments this show....
You shall, from time to time, find a closest friend. A confidant. One who knows your likes, your passions, so well, their selection of gifts is never off the shelf. But searched for with care. Hand picked to brighten your day. Keep them close. These friends know who you really are.
Lee McKay: Post 9/11 yes. This was shot pre-9/11. One designated survivor, then-Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman, met his daughter in New York City for dinner. When they went to the restaurant, it was in a full presidential-style motorcade, lights, shrieking police sirens, specialist officers with close quarter battle weapons, and with a military officer that had a duplicate set of the nuclear codes. The speech ended in the middle of dinner. When he got out on the street, it had begun raining and the motorcade, the military officers, all of it was gone. And he was just some guy standing on a NY street in the rain. Donna Shala, the then-H.H.S. Secretary (now a member of the House from south Florida) stayed at the White House and had her staff from H.H.S. over for pizza. She briefly went alone into the Oval Office and sat behind the Resolute Desk for a moment, getting a feel for what it was like to be there. Nowadays, it's far more security conscious. Now it's even pretty well moot since the House and Senate designate survivors who could form a mini-quorum and allow that person to become Acting Speaker of the House or President Pro Tempore of the Senate and then "bump" whatever Cabinet official was designated, making the congressional official the new Acting POTUS. It's all untested legal waters since it's never happened before. It is entirely likely however, that they may be in the D.C. area; an undisclosed location means simply that. When Cheney was often at a "secure, undisclosed location," it was the Vice President's official residence in D.C., where you might expect he would be, or at Camp David, hardly a secret. On 9/11, Cheney refused to evacuate to a more secure location, staying at the PEOC under the White House; Robert Byrd, the then-President Pro Tempore insisted on going home (He was 84 at the time) and Donald Rumsfield refused to go to Site R, the backup Pentagon, sending his deputy instead. Colin Powell was in Latin America at the time. The only one who did follow the protocols, Speaker Dennis Hasert, ended up being out of touch with the rest of the government for the day by going to his secure location.
The framing of the portrait of Washington behind the Secretary seems so important here. He's never in focus, but his status as America's Cincinnatus - the man who took the reins of power when it seemed no one could, and relinquished them when the time was right rather than becoming a monarch - reflects the expectation of every American president.
I think this show needs to be played in the schools it shows very well how government should be run even with all the bickering and fighting between the parties they all come together to SERVE the American people
"Someone took the time to translate our Constitution into Latin..." What a different time, now there's online translators and you wouldn't even blink at doing that, crazy how the world changes in 20 years...
@Z7TomC7Z Bartlett is on his way to deliver the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. With almost every official of the US govt. in one place, someone in the line of succession has to stay behind just in case, say, the building burned down with everyone in it. The other character is that someone--the Secretary of Agriculture, IIRC. I like the "That's your Chief of Staff" line--as I recall, Leo was facing a rough ride over the revelation of his substance abuse at the time.
*In the Rome of antiquity, 'Public Speaking' was considered an art form due to the complexities of forming proper nouns and verb-tenses and the declension of Latin verbs...it was possible for a week or so of the year for even a slave to 'Orate' to persons of high office and be granted a 'Citizen of Rome' status simply by speaking a retort to another, or even addressing an audience of listeners* _________ *"I would have about me fat men...contented men, and yon Cassius looks lean and hungry"* ( *Good advice for a President, to have about you 'contented men'* )
Roger's gift to Bartlett is actually incredible. He gave a former Latin teacher and sitting president an antique copy of the constitution in Latin. Very probably a high school project written by an American student, and to top it off highlighted the section of the constitution stating the passage for the State of the Union address that President Bartlett is about to give. Like... wow, the level of sentiment in that gesture is amazing.
Leo's reaction to Bartlett's statement about the Chief of Staff choked me up. Leo was the best part of that show.
Ovrkyl me to man 😭😭❤️👍
I love how John Spencer plays that moment too. He almost doesn't smile just this tiny tug of his lips, just pauses in his usual routine of leaving the office, just for a second. Great actor.
The original idea for the show is that we were supposed to see Sheen very infrequently. That was cast aside with his "I AM THE LORD THY GOD, THOU SHALT HAVE NO GODS BEFORE ME" intro.
One of the most accurate comments on CZcams of all time.
I loved his performance too. That said, I'd prefer to work with Ainsley Hayes given the option!
Imagine accidentally overhearing your best friend saying that about you.
Imagine that your best friend is also President of the United States.
And all you do is secretly put that feather in your cap and walk away.
I actually thought he knew he was there when he glanced to his left before and after his little best friend speech. I think he was telling Leo how he felt without actually telling him. I feel that is even more powerful than if he truly did not know Leo was there. Imagine being able to sing your best friend's praises under the guise of invisibility?
@@markdziadulewicz6160 You read way too much into that. He didn't see Leo. The reason for the scene was that Leo hear Bartlett's comments without Bartlett knowing it.
@@tomsampson8084 I guess I do 😁 point taken 👍
Bartlett may not have seen Leo...but he did see the red light that let him know the camera was on when he let something slip out he wasn't supposed to say, but wanted it out there. so who knows....I've had big bosses who pretended to not be aware of what was going on, but could hear from across the room things workers were dumb enough to say out loud. Its how they became the big boss.
I like how he took this seriously and didn't just tell the guy, this is just something we have to do. Really showed he believed in him if the worst were to happen.
"Do you have a best friend?"
"Yes sir."
"Is he (she) smarter than you?"
(*laughing) "Yes sir."
"Would you trust him (her) with your life?"
(*NOT laughing) "...Yes sir."
"That's your chief of staff."
Tears
Sadness
Depression
Hope
Trust
Waiting
Readiness
I have a strong feeling this scene is the basic inspiration for " Designated survivor "
*Next Scene* Open on the building exploding, and Roger making his first call to his Best Friend, John "I need you at the White House, you're the new Chief of Staff" Smith
maybe. but please do not compare TWW with Designated Survivor (I watch it every week, so i know what i'm talking about). It' like compare diamond and plastic.
It's not. It's VERY similar to Tom Clancy's "Executive Orders."
I'm starting to be very disappointed with Designated Survivor. I think I was hoping for another West Wing, but you are right. It is comparing a Mercedes with a Pinto. Lol
While there cannot be a possible comparison, I wonder if Keith Sutherland watched this episode before they started filming or if in the show, the President gave him that same speech before the fatal State of the Union.
"You got a best friend?"
"Yes sir."
"Is he smarter than you?"
"Yes sir."
"Would you trust him with your life?"
"Yes sir."
"That's your chief of staff."
chris parmly What makes that scene so beautiful is that Jed didn't know Leo was there. That's when the truth comes out...
brothergrimace true that man..true that..
RetroGuy76 in the political arena being a master politician is having the superior intelligence. You can be a genius and still have no clue on how to bring people together. Leo knew what it took. He recognized the attributes that a great leader needed to posses. That kind of insight doesn't come from I.Q. only. But a good mix of E.Q. too.
when you see this after the santos-vinnick election, Leo dead ! :( :( oh my heart!
@@kerryf.6997 These moments on West Wing are great teaching moments for anyone considering politics or who might already be in.
Wonderful the way he takes the time to make the guy understand that though he has been asked a really simple and boring thing, i.e. stay away from a party, he's performing a well-defined and potentially crucial function for the lawful running of the country.
Making people understand that their jobs are important was central to the character Bartlet.
We've all seen (new) Battlestar Galactica.
😜😁
@@chriskelly3481 what was she again, like 43rd in line?
@@chriskelly3481 no we haven’t.
and Leo just walks away with pride, happiness, emotions, smile...wow....
Yeah, but he had asked for a raise. This is how they keep you on without paying you more money.
I live in south korea. But this is my best tv show ever. Our country have history of dictatorship, but we used to fight for democracy. I wish that tradition keep survive in our people's mind.
정제웅 Keep fighting. We're with you.
+정제웅 It's on its way.
Watch the episode 'Han': series-top.com/show/the-west-wing-s05e04/season/5/episode/4
Liberty and democracy require constant, vigorous protection by the People, all the People, or it goes away.
South Korea is still one of the great success stories for democratic development. no country is perfect or without backward steps
My favorite scene from my favorite show of all time. I have watched the series 8 times all the way through and this scene dozens of time. I think it is the most moving scene I have ever seen. Twenty years later and I am still choked up.
Thank you Aaron and Martin and John (and crew).
Abosolutely agree!
toss up between this and Toby organizing military services for the homeless vet
There will never be another show like this one; it was truly television without pity.
I absolutely love this scene. Still brings me to tears when Leo is listening.
I need these from time to time. I miss this kind of intelligence in TV these days. The scripts for West Wing were superb, which is why they continue to inspire me today. Sometimes, when I need a lift I reach back for them.
"You have to jiggle the handle."
So many details to cover when you are the President
Hey, now. We capitalize President if not prefaced with "the".
@@partyguy101ify Thanks.
Kind of loss track grammatically due to current occupant.
@@partyguy101ify Thanks.
Kind of loss track grammatically due to current occupant.
This was a supremely touching scene showing just how much Jed appreciates Leo, but I'm also silently freaking out because President Bartlet just let the Mayor of Sunnydale into his office! The world is doomed!
Don’t worry. Phil Coulson is the White House’s FBI (*cough* S.H.E.I.L.D.*cough*) liaison. We’ll be okay.
@@remychase And don't forget that he has Leroy Jethro Gibbs as one of secret service (NCIS) agents.
"I know you like ancient things...can you translate this?" ...hands Bartlett the flayed human skin parchment....
Faith as the Secretary of Defence would be an interesting concept.
This is one of my favourite moments. I loved Jed and Leo's friendship. Besties that get to work together. Perfect
01:02 the subtle shot of GW's portrait behind them is amazing. Gotta love the small details.
And Teddy Roosevelt behind Bartlett.
GW--George Washington! I had to look because I wondered why there was a portrait of GW Bush in Bartlett's oval office!
We miss you, Leo.
I have the entire series on dvd thankfully. I watch it once a year. There aren't a lot of the episodes that don't bring tears to my eyes and that odd feeling in my heart when I think about how much I love our country. I loved this show SO much!
i've watched this series through 3 times. every couple years I toss on an early episode and end up watching the whole thing.
A beautiful vision of what a president can be like. Humbly forceful and by so being, recognizes and brings out the courage in others. Let's hope this day will come and the current abborition is only but a passing fascination with disgrace by a people that should know better.
"We do these things not because they are easy, but because they are hard." -JFK
idealized president. Almost infallible.
@@tokyworld except, he wasn't. He was supremely arrogant. He was constantly plagued by his fears and uncertainties. He was wrathful when stirred to it. And, above all else, he lied to the american people. He was extremely flawed. But he more than made up for it with his many qualities: his insatiable curiousity, his depth and breadth of knowledge, his good will toward others, and his willingness to put the duties of his position beyond anything else; even his own conscience at times. He was far, far from an ideal president. But that's what made him such a good character.
He wasn't real.
Thank you
I disagree. He wasn't an idealized president, just one who understood his duty. As far as being infallible... again I disagree. Bartlett made many mistakes and at times was the consummate politician... making decisions for purely political/partisan ends.
Every time I watch this scene, I am reminded of how much I LOVED this series. As for President Bartlett - Like Daniel J Travanti's "Captain Furillo" in Hill Street Blues... We can only wish that there is someone like that making the decisions...
+Christopher Jones "We can only wish that there is someone like that making the decisions..."
I'm from 2017 and I've got some bad news...
@@redlightmax 2018 and the news just gets worse and worse.
The doctor says to the patient I have good news and bad news.
Patient, Give me the bad news
Doctor, we amputated your legs by mistake
Patient Jesus Christ What's the good news.
Doctor, A guy in the next ward wants to buy your slippers.
I'm from Ireland and just can't believe what is happening in America.I'm not sure how far the bar can be lowered but we may need a shovel.
@tim murray Thanks for the heads up Tim. Make sure Trump tells Putin that he's running would hate for Putin not to get reelected.
Still no better in 2019. I think I would now pick Jon Stewart as Chief of Staff.
There are Jed Bartlett's out there. But amerikan politics have become SO unspeakably toxic, they want nothing to do with high offices like the presidency, and the skulduggery necessary to obtain those offices. Consequently, we end up with insufferable sociopath's like the former guy. It's a goddamn shame. To say the least.
I mean, could there possibly ever been or ever will be a greater show than The West Wing. Every minute, and seemingly insignificant, scene is done with such grace and elegance.
The Sopranoes was amazing too.
Great tribute to the late John "Leo McGarry" Spencer....
Secretary:Can you translate?
Bartlet looks at him as if to say:"Bitch please"
Here's the thing: the Secretary knew the President could translate it, otherwise he wouldn't have asked him -- it's an inside joke. In fact, the Secretary likely translated it himself in order to highlight the State of the Union section that he asked the President to read. Shows the Secretary has intellect as well. Even in the smallest roles, the show did this kind of thing all the time. That's why it was so great. I love it.
Harry Groener, wonderful actor, and from what I hear, lovely man.
it just occurred to me that Roger is played by the wonderful Harry Groener, The mayor in Buffy!
The "Tin Man Whisperer". 😃
(Sorry... like Joss a lot, but never watched Buffy.)
@@jimg5669 Thank you! That would have bugged me all day.
@@jimg5669 Yes, Tam Elbrun.
The writing in this show was truly exceptional. To say nothing of the acting.......
Recently on a lark, I decided to read the transcript for the Pilot of the West Wing. I read all the characters, making my own interpretations at certain points, sticking to the originals at others, and despite juggling multiple characters and the breakneck pace of the dialogue, I think I did a pretty good job the my attempt at a performance.
Until I got to Bartlet.
I could not, absolutely could not come close to replicating the... the everything that made Bartlet Bartlet. His wisdom, his kindness, his love for his friends and family, his righteous fury, his faith in his God and his fellow man, I tried and fell so, so far short of imitating Martin Sheen's performance.
Seriously, this guy had the best performance in the history of television, over the likes of Kelsey Grammer, Bryan Cranston, James Gandolfini, Peter Dinklage.
After every time I watch Trump's press conference on T.V., I have to watch a snippet from West wing for my head to stop spinning.
I need this fiction to reduce the suffering inflicted by reality.
Just a few more weeks ... Hang in there!
When he touches his chest with his fist says it all, he also does it in the season 5 finale when Leo has the flashback. 'It should have been you Leo'.
West Wing & M*A*S*H have been the mainstays of my TV existence. I still return to both.
"He shall from time to time... " I wonder how many people have actually read The Constitution of the United States? It's an easy read, a great introduction to American Studies and a tremendous work of literature -- and the governing document of our Republic. And yes, "he shall from time to time..." --30--
I consider it one of the greatest documents ever written
Current incumbent of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue certainty hasn't read it ...
At school here in the UK I elected to do a year studying American politics and we went through the constitution line-by-line
@@Ulleskelf Similar to us here in the US with the Magna Carta in my case! Though given I don't read Latin like Bartlett, I had to use a translation. Even translated it was a bit dry, but it was actually quite fun to read and pull apart the intent behind each line.
It can be read in its entirety in approx. 15 minutes. The know-nothing blabbermouths like Greene and Boebert would never tire their mediocre brains by actually READING this superb document. After all, reading is hard.
One of my favourite lines: "people have phenomenal capacity". We are all capable of rising to the challenges of the most trying circumstances.
I love the way the music sits in the background unnoticed, then builds to a height at the end of the scene.
Oh John, we miss you.
THIS IS EASILY ONE OF THE TOP10 BEST SHOWS EVER. . . .
Dammit, Jed. You always catch me right in the gut.
These videos are skyrocketing the Kleenex cost in my house. Doesn't matter how often I've seen them, I blubber every time.
What writing and acting. So rare. And I’m so grateful.
Best show ever! I wish America was like this now and we still had faith in our elected officials to do what they promised to do once they were elected.
I love this scene. It does give light to those some consider "lower" on the Cabinet totem pole but I also love it because you see the respect Jeb has for those who he chose to work in his cabinet. And the present just makes the scene. It's a perfect gift for him. Great scene!
I so miss this show.
Rest well, John Spencer!
Simply the best series ever
God, I miss having a real President.
In a great show full of great writing, great acting and great moments, this to me was the one I think about when I remember this show.
Leo'd let a recurring personal issue back into his life, and you had to wonder if his career was on the line. But learning how Jed felt about him in the way he did spoke to love and loyalty.
Yea...kinda got to me too.
@grumpytosnowwhite I like the fact that for a scene of that importance they use such an experienced actor for such a small role
“People have phenomenal capacity.” 🥹 What a line.
Gotta come back to this every year
Favourite moment: can you translate? *bitch please stare*
this fucking show was something else man. Every episode has a monent that takes nearly every other show ever made an entire season to build up to. Phenomenal.
My favorite show ever!
It's bittersweet that He Shall From Time to Time doesn't just denote the State of the Union but also allude to the fact that due to MS, he shall have those episodes from time to time
Many of my fellow Brits dislike America and I'll admit its politics has become stressed and run down, but looking at the foundations of the republic with the constitution and how well written it is, it is a nation that still deserves worldwide respect
"...that's your Chief of Staff." The bond between Jed & Leo...
I once stole his quote for a scene between a Starfleet Captain and his Chief Engineer. He was leaving on an away mission with his first officer (a Vulcan naturally) and Chief Medical Officer, and he was giving his Chief Engineer command.
Captain Abel MacKenzie:
“If anything happens you gather all of your department heads in the conference room, alert Starfleet Command, raise the shields and arm weapons... You got a best friend on this ship?”
Lt. Commander Nadia Tokarev:
“Yes sir.”
Captain Abel MacKenzie:
“Are they smarter than you?”
Lt. Commander Nadia:
(chuckling)
“Yes sir.”
Captain Abel MacKenzie:
“Would you trust them with your life?”
Lt. Commander Nadia:
“Yes sir.”
Captain Abel MacKenzie:
“That’s your First Officer.”
Not much but better than the Abrams films or Discovery.
Just rewatched this episode 2 days ago. Always makes me cry 🥹
aww this brought a tear to my eye T.T
I wish Josiah was a real president ...
One of many moments, do truely miss this show. It's a good moment with got a best friend, he smarter than you, do you trust him with you life....and then with the giggle of the bathroom handle, LOL. Wish Aaron Sorkin would do another show.
This is also one of my favourite scenes, but there are many. Just as with the magnificent pre-credits scene in 17 people, the tone of the orchestra beuatifully accompanies Leo's reaction. And, as always, the writing is breathtaking. Bartlett does not ask him 'Who would be your Chief of Staff?', he just asks him, 'You gotta best friend?' - the synthesis of emotive language and politics-speak that Sorkin incorporates is majestical. As you say, Jed, people have phenomenal capacity.
I think this & the Stackhouse episode are my very favorites.
In a TV show, we learn how our government works... Splendid!
Thank You.
This is what happens when amazing acting meets brilliant writing.
I love the fact that there where paintings of George Washington and Theodore Roosevelt blurred in the background of both actors. Very fitting. Great show.
Buffy needs to warn the President who he's talking to...
Couple this with the final scene of the series and I'm powerless to fight back tears. Perfection!
That's your Chief of Staff. How many of us can say "That's our Chief of Staff?"
I love that the actor for the Designated Survivor (not the show, but possibly the basis) was also the demonic snake mayor who got blown up on Buffy. And he was filming episodes for both at the same time!
Thanks for uploading this. Earlier I picked this vid as a fav befor and it was removed. This scene touches me, I consider my best friend smarter than me, and a person I trust. I am lucky to have his friendship, and I a value it with all my heart.
I have always wanted to run for public office. I'm actually getting pretty close to starting my first attempt at local government. The goal as a child was to be president. But I'm realistic enough to know that may not happen one day. I can shoot for it, but I still want to serve my country.
I watch this scene and I think about my best friend, James.
1:46 the closest thing you'll ever see to leo feeling warm and fuzzy.
There are some good shows on TV these days, but none of them come close to the level this show was at. It won Best Drama at the emmys for five straight years for a reason! Why Sorkin isn't given the keys to a network and allowed to make whatever show he wants is beyond me, the man makes great television.
I've known of the "Designated Survivor" requirement for many years. But until now, I've never really thought about what it must be like to be that person, sitting in that Office, waiting... waiting... waiting... just in case the unthinkable happens.
wickedpissa25 if somehow, I ever end up being the designated survivor, I would be praying to all Gods, all religious figures and all religions that nothing goes horribly wrong and I am not elevated to that position at that time.
How I miss this series........
Was there or has there been anything better on TV than this?
This show got me through the first half of this decade. I was watching it Sydney Australia the night of 9/11. A priceless piece of television.
This is my favourite TV show of all time. But ffs do i wish they would turn a light on!!!!
This is one of my all time favourite scenes, and that is a big ask for this top, top show...and I would have loved to see more of the Secretary of Agriculture....and just imagine being in The Oval Office, knowing if, God forbids, anything should happen, you'll be caretaker President....and don't get me started on the music that so compliments this show....
Nor did it have the same humor, heart, suspense, etc. I felt the show really went downhill once Sorkin left.
God!!! I love this series
You shall, from time to time, find a closest friend. A confidant. One who knows your likes, your passions, so well, their selection of gifts is never off the shelf. But searched for with care. Hand picked to brighten your day. Keep them close. These friends know who you really are.
I do from time to time get fed up with the corruption the robbery the lies the loneliness and the poverty....
Replaying this scene on Netflix over and over
Always think of my best mate when I watch this.
That’s your chief of staff ……I got something in my eye i like that line
The designated survivor isn't even supposed to be in DC, let alone in the White House. Any potential attack would take them out as well.
Lee McKay: Post 9/11 yes. This was shot pre-9/11. One designated survivor, then-Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman, met his daughter in New York City for dinner. When they went to the restaurant, it was in a full presidential-style motorcade, lights, shrieking police sirens, specialist officers with close quarter battle weapons, and with a military officer that had a duplicate set of the nuclear codes. The speech ended in the middle of dinner. When he got out on the street, it had begun raining and the motorcade, the military officers, all of it was gone. And he was just some guy standing on a NY street in the rain. Donna Shala, the then-H.H.S. Secretary (now a member of the House from south Florida) stayed at the White House and had her staff from H.H.S. over for pizza. She briefly went alone into the Oval Office and sat behind the Resolute Desk for a moment, getting a feel for what it was like to be there.
Nowadays, it's far more security conscious. Now it's even pretty well moot since the House and Senate designate survivors who could form a mini-quorum and allow that person to become Acting Speaker of the House or President Pro Tempore of the Senate and then "bump" whatever Cabinet official was designated, making the congressional official the new Acting POTUS. It's all untested legal waters since it's never happened before. It is entirely likely however, that they may be in the D.C. area; an undisclosed location means simply that. When Cheney was often at a "secure, undisclosed location," it was the Vice President's official residence in D.C., where you might expect he would be, or at Camp David, hardly a secret. On 9/11, Cheney refused to evacuate to a more secure location, staying at the PEOC under the White House; Robert Byrd, the then-President Pro Tempore insisted on going home (He was 84 at the time) and Donald Rumsfield refused to go to Site R, the backup Pentagon, sending his deputy instead. Colin Powell was in Latin America at the time. The only one who did follow the protocols, Speaker Dennis Hasert, ended up being out of touch with the rest of the government for the day by going to his secure location.
The framing of the portrait of Washington behind the Secretary seems so important here. He's never in focus, but his status as America's Cincinnatus - the man who took the reins of power when it seemed no one could, and relinquished them when the time was right rather than becoming a monarch - reflects the expectation of every American president.
LEO FRIENDSHIP SO GOOD
Andrew Wang You stole my cat
God I miss this show!!!
The very next day D.C was destroyed by a giant snake.
+sumbuddyx I thought it was giant mutant Space Goat!
We're the B ark you see...
Basically the plot point of Designated Survivor
somebuddyX haha
If only there was a Slayer in town!
I think this show needs to be played in the schools it shows very well how government should be run even with all the bickering and fighting between the parties they all come together to SERVE the American people
I really hate it when they chop onions during this scene 🥺🥺🥺🥺
I tear up every time I watch this; where's our Television Without Pity now.
I absolutely love this scene.
One of my favorite scenes.
Gods, I miss this show.
Stunning gift. It is so perfect.
What a radical idea: a president with a genuinely kind, generous, unselfish human heart. And, incidentally, an educated man who studied Latin.
"Someone took the time to translate our Constitution into Latin..."
What a different time, now there's online translators and you wouldn't even blink at doing that, crazy how the world changes in 20 years...
@Z7TomC7Z Bartlett is on his way to deliver the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. With almost every official of the US govt. in one place, someone in the line of succession has to stay behind just in case, say, the building burned down with everyone in it. The other character is that someone--the Secretary of Agriculture, IIRC.
I like the "That's your Chief of Staff" line--as I recall, Leo was facing a rough ride over the revelation of his substance abuse at the time.
*In the Rome of antiquity, 'Public Speaking' was considered an art form due to the complexities of forming proper nouns and verb-tenses and the declension of Latin verbs...it was possible for a week or so of the year for even a slave to 'Orate' to persons of high office and be granted a 'Citizen of Rome' status simply by speaking a retort to another, or even addressing an audience of listeners*
_________
*"I would have about me fat men...contented men, and yon Cassius looks lean and hungry"*
( *Good advice for a President, to have about you 'contented men'* )
Martin Sheen is just brilliant!
Roger's gift to Bartlett is actually incredible. He gave a former Latin teacher and sitting president an antique copy of the constitution in Latin. Very probably a high school project written by an American student, and to top it off highlighted the section of the constitution stating the passage for the State of the Union address that President Bartlett is about to give.
Like... wow, the level of sentiment in that gesture is amazing.
He shall from time to time.....our constitution still strong & just