"The West Wing" Season Seven Talkback (Spoilers) - Series Finale

[The Penguin]

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, the election season officially begins. The nominees are set and Senator Arnold Vinick, R-CA and Representative Matt Santos, D-TX will vie for the right to succeed Josiah Bartlet as President of the United States.


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THE TICKET - Season Premiere
8pm 2005-09-25 ALL NEW!

THE WHITE HOUSE LEAK INVESTIGATION PICKS UP SPEED - Josh (Brad Whitford) is caught off guard when political commentators are critical of Leo (John Spencer) as a running mate for Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits). White House Counsel Babbish (Oliver Platt) sits with CJ (Allison Janney) about the leak investigation. Donna (Janel Moloney) approaches Josh for a job. Also starring Martin Sheen, Richard Schiff, Mary McCormack, Dule Hill.

Comments?

[Stewie]

Josh (Brad Whitford) is caught off guard when political commentators are critical of Leo (John Spencer) as a running mate for Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits). White House Counsel Babbish (Oliver Platt) sits with CJ (Allison Janney) about the leak investigation. Donna (Janel Moloney) approaches Josh for a job. Also starring Martin Sheen, Richard Schiff, Mary McCormack, Dule Hill.Donna wants to rejoin Josh? Oliver Babish still has his job? And is back? Josh might pay for his hero worship of Leo?
Can't wait.

But what is gonna happen to Will Bailey? I really like Joshua Molina.

[The Penguin]

I can't wait either, but I've got six more episodes before I have all of season five either watched or on tape to watch so I'm tempted to tape the new ones until I get there. I might so you all in a little while.

Dang I wish I'd remembered what colored bars the polls had, then I would've flipped the names and the bar would have matched the party color. Ah well.

[Delthayre]

Dang I wish I'd remembered what colored bars the polls had, then I would've flipped the names and the bar would have matched the party color. Ah well.
Eh? Blue for the Democratic candidates and red for the Republican ones. Lines up just rightly.

[Temple Fugate]

I dare them to squeeze ONE more name into that credit sequence.

The three year teaser was bad. It was so, SO bad. Sorkin loved flashbacks, but he NEVER shot into the future in order to tease the audience. I don't want to know the futures of the characters, at least not yet. This scene could have waited until the series finale. Minus 1/2 star.

So the campaign kicks into high gear. Leo's alcohol abuse is getting the attention I expected it to get. I liked the sit-down Leo and Santos had at the end. It seems like if they can keep their wits about them they should be able to pull through.

This episode reignites the one thing I've hated about West Wing since season five started: The amount of tension between the main characters is aggravating. I liked it when everybody was on the same side. The divisions have been forming for a couple years now, and now it seems like the family is finally coming apart for good. And that's very depressing. Most notably so is the scene with Donna and Josh. Their conversation had an underlying bitterness that really shouldn't have been there. It would have been more in character for there to be one or two awkward pauses or slipped tongues, but instead all they did was quote their own condescending remarks. That was not the reunion they should have had.

We'd better see a lot of Vinick in the next couple episodes if the producers have any hope of convincing me they're running an evenly-matched bid for the presidency. Too much attention on Santos makes Vinick come out looking like the bad guy, and how many shows have you seen where the bad guy wins in the end?

The West Wing 7x01: "The Ticket" - ***

[The Penguin]

Eh? Blue for the Democratic candidates and red for the Republican ones. Lines up just rightly.Okay, this is embarassing, but I couldn't help myself.

I re-did the thread and the poll to match the colors so the three of you who already voted (in addition to me) will have to vote again. :o

I got really tricky though so no posts were lost.

[Temple Fugate]

All ph34r Teh Penguin and his awesome m0d p0wrz!

...I am so sorry for that.
I didn't vote yet, because frankly, I'm going to wait until we've seen more of Vinick. They aren't really giving us a fair chance to determine if we should even be thinking of rooting for him or not.

One thing I did like about tonight's episode: The White House Council is back and is just as good at his job as ever. I'm surprised he wasn't actually fired/resigned after the MS disclosure, since that's the last time I think we saw him. Though with all her experience, CJ should have been more wise to the interrogation. By the time she realized she was the suspect, it was no surprise to me.

[The Penguin]

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET, the fallout from the military shuttle leak affects not just the White House but Santos as well...


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THE MOMMY PROBLEM
8pm 2005-10-02 ALL NEW!

SANTOS NEEDS TO DISTANCE HIMSELF FROM THE TROUBLE AT THE WHITE HOUSE WHILE STAYING LOYAL TO HIS PARTY - As a Grand Jury is convened to investigate the miliatry shuttle leak from the White House, the campaign's focus changes to national security. Vinick (Alan Alda) deftly handles the issue while Santos (Jimmy Smits) is bound by his party loyalty to align himself with the Bartlet administration. Also starring Bradley Whitford, Allison Janney, Richard Schiff, Martin Sheen, Janeane Garofalo, Kristin Chenoweth, John Spencer, Dule Hill, Mary McCormack.

Comments?

I am so close to getting all the season five episodes watched that I am going to join you guys in a few weeks to "talk back".

[Temple Fugate]

Dulé Hill and Joshua Malina were dropped from the opening credits. I would say these were two of WW's best characters, but really every single one of the main cast is fantastic. At least, the original cast. Malina was good at the start, but dipped severely after leaving for the VP. The new blood (Cristen Chennowith, Mary McCormack) is okay, but their characters are so not interesting the way Charlie and Will were. It's sad to see them go--especially so unceremoniously--and I hope they'll have guest stints before the series ends.

More weird editing in this episode. Photograph stills and an annoying montage do not a provocative political drama make. Santos saved the day with his level head, thank goodness. But it's becoming painfully clear the writers are building Santos as the "Good Guy" and Vinick as the "Bad Guy," which takes all of the nail-biting out of this presidential race just like it did the Democratic Convention last season finale.

I really want to say good things about this show. It's killing me that I can't find but one or two little things that were great, but barely worth noting. (Funny moments were the best parts, especially the photograph scene.) I really can't blame people for not caring enough to watch this show, let along post in this talkback. NBC, John Wells, why did you do this to the greatest show on television?!

The West Wing 7x02: "The Mommy Problem" - ***1/2

[Wounded_Dragon]

I just got used to its new date and time...despite knowing it was moving months ago.

I'm hoping we're not going to sink back into the "Josh knows nothing and is screwing up" that it felt like the previous season was going.

[The Penguin]

I am so close to getting all the season five episodes watched that I am going to join you guys in a few weeks to "talk back".So get this, next week (starting Oct. 10) Bravo is airing a marathon and all of season six will air by Thursday. It appears I can put off season seven for a bit without worrying about finding out who the President will be.

I'll still be updating, but may will be a bit before I watch as I said. Daddy just bought some new video tapes!

[The Penguin]

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET, both Santos and Vinick try to get their message out to the people...


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MESSAGE OF THE WEEK
8pm 2005-10-09 ALL NEW!

VINICK (ALAN ALDA) TURNS THE TABLES ON SANTOS (JIMMY SMITS) - The Vinick camp decides to turn the tables on the Santos campaign by targeting issues of immigration - issues Santos has avoided. An eager NSA agent briefs Vinick about an assassination which Vinick shrugs off. Also starring Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, John Spencer, Richard Schiff, Kristin Chenoweth, Bradley Whitford, Janeane Garofalo. TV-PG

Comments?

While not a season seven item, reminder that the season six marathon starts Monday morning on Bravo.

[Temple Fugate]

Hmm...the first Vinick episode of the new season and he's clearly not playing the game as virtuous as he started last year. Right now I'm about here on which way to vote:

VINICK--------X---SANTOS

Worst part of the episode: Cutting the scene of Josh's comments on Bruno immediately after "Mother--." The writer hasn't seen the first four seasons of this show, because if he did he'd know that Josh might carry grudges and get pissy sometimes, but he never swears like that. Okay, maybe he stopped himself after "mother," but the way they cut it sure made it seem like he finished that thought.

The scene with Josh and Bruno was good. There weren't a lot of real problems in this episode, aside from the above. Some good campaigning on both sides. One thing I don't like about these campaign trail episodes in general is that they have little to no scenes in the actual West Wing. But, considering how mediocre the position of President becomes toward the end of his term, this diversion of attention is something I'm coming to accept.

The West Wing 7x03: "Message of the Week" - ****

[mookie75]

Dang it, I forgot to watch AGAIN tonight. I can tell that I'm going to miss most of this season.

I used to watch at a friend's house every week when it was on Wednesdays. I'm no good at thinking about the tv when I'm at home...I'm too busy with the computer. lol :anime:

[The Penguin]

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET on NBC the leak investigation really starts to pick up steam and while his possible replacements are campaigning, President Bartlet has some issues of his own...


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MR. FROST
8pm 2005-10-16 ALL NEW!

CJ (ALLISON JANNEY) IS APPROACHED BY A MEMBER OF THE INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY WHO DELIVERS DISTURBING NEWS - CJ (Allison Janney) must hold down the fort by herself since most of her staff have been subpoenaed to testify in the military shuttle leak investigation. Major trouble breaks out in the Middle East jeopardizing Bartlet's (Martin Sheen) peace plan. Also starring Brad Whitford, Richard Schiff, Kristin Chenoweth, John Spencer, Dule Hill, Mary McCormack.

Comments?

According to the NBC.com site (http://www.nbc.com/The_West_Wing/) the live debate will be November 6th and check out the Vinick-Sullivan (http://www.nbc.com/The_West_Wing/Campaign/Vinick_Sullivan/) and Santos-McGarry (http://www.nbc.com/The_West_Wing/Campaign/Santos_McGarry/) campaign sites! :cool:

[Temple Fugate]

Dang it, c'mon guys! Use the VCR or something. I don't wanna talkback this by myself. :(

Charlie is back. Yes! And he kept that goatee from the future. If that made any sense. This was actually a pretty good White House episode. I always like it when the staff isn't fighting against one another, like they would occasionally in recent seasons. It was nice seeing Margaret holding her own. I always liked her character.

This episode managed to give us a White House story and a campaign story without tipping the ballance of focus too far in either direction. I would have liked this to have been the formula for most of the 2005 episodes instead of the White House and campaign trail trading off every week. We got to see most of the characters do what they do and not simply be used for set decoration.

Uh-oh. Santos trumped Vinick on a major issue. The meter just jumped a notch.
VINICK---------X--SANTOS

The West Wing 7x04: "Mr. Frost" - ****

[The Penguin]

Dang it, c'mon guys! Use the VCR or something. I don't wanna talkback this by myself. :(I hate to do it to ya, but I've got season six to watch yet. With a lot of pizza and a lot of Coke Zero I watched 14 episodes of season five yesterday and the final eight today, but now I need another weekend, more pizza and more Coke Zero to get through all of six and watch the four we've had so far this season.

Five other people (aside from myself) have cared enough to cast votes so we know you're out there.

[Wounded_Dragon]

Well, I was kinda surprised who the leak was finally being revealed...or has it? I swear they have a cheap sense of drama sometimes.

Both the Vinnick and Santos camps need cattle prods if they have a hope of getting their candidates to not take questions.

I'm somewhat intrigued by Mr. Frost, but I imagine he'll probably disappear in an episode or less.

[Stewie]

Dang it, c'mon guys! Use the VCR or something. I don't wanna talkback this by myself. I'm here too. Just haven't managed to come up with anything useful/meaningful to say about the episodes.
Taped, but haven't watched the newest one yet. Saw the opening though. Hello Mitch Pileggi!

[Bleu Unicorn]

Dang it, c'mon guys! Use the VCR or something. I don't wanna talkback this by myself. :(
I'm sorry! I missed the first three episodes and only got caught up this week and then I fell asleep after the episode. But anyhow, I'm here.

I really like the not completely focusing on the campaign or the White House this week. Frankly, as interesting as Santos and Vinick are to me, everytime they command an entire episode...I get bored. And with so much other cast that have had years to become very interesting to me, it's hard to not see any of them (sans Josh) in an episode so this was very nice.

Also Kristin Chenworth is just about the cutest thing ever - I loved her on the plane. Hehe.

Apparently I had very little thoughts. But I did really enjoy this one. Wonder what happened to Frost, though.

[The Penguin]

Judgment Day has arrived! Tonight at 8 p.m. ET on NBC find out what happens.


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HERE TODAY
8pm 2005-10-23 ALL NEW!

THE SHUTTLE LEAK HITS THE WEST WING HARD - Babish (Oliver Platt) questions Toby (Richard Schiff) until Toby realizes he should probably retain counsel. Meanwhile, Josh (Brad Whitford) realizes that everyone involved in the Santos campaign is young and inexperienced, forcing him to make some tough decisions. Also starring Jimmy Smits, John Spencer, Allison Janney, Martin Sheen, Kristin Chenoweth.

Comments?

I am pleased to announced that with more pizza and Diet Coke Cherry, I finished my season six marathon this weekend. I'll will watch the four, soon to be five episodes from this season by Saturday and will be here for next Sunday's episode and the live debate the week after that!

[Temple Fugate]

Just to warn you if you haven't seen this ep yet, Penguin, a large part of my review concerns the identity of the person who leaked the shuttle to the press.

They really nailed the mood in this episode. It was very calm, quiet and serious. No funny B-story, just rare quips from Toby or Josh, which is perfectly acceptable because that's how they deal with tension. I was glued to the tv during the whole hour like it was an episode of 24.

That being said, I have huge problems with the idea. Toby is simply not the kind of person that would cripple an administration. I never would have suspected him, nor any of the original cast of doing such a thing. These characters are self-righteous sometimes, sure, but they all have the same redeeming quality: Never, ever do anything to hurt the President. Did he do it because his brother was an astronaut stuck in a very similar situation years ago? Did he do it to save lives? Probably. I know he wanted to save lives. They all did. But Toby should be a better man than to betray the office he's worked tirelessly for.

What the President said about him was absurd. I hate the writers for actually believing Toby to be a character headed for a "crash and burn." Toby may have been quasi-self-destructive in past ventures, but never in the extreme sense Bartlet alluded to. I believe a core component of West Wing was destroyed in this episode, and it hurts me as a viewer to discover this fundamental fault appearing before my eyes. I wonder if this will be the pillar from which the entire series will collapse upon itself, or if I'm simply overreacting to this latest "audience-attracting ratings stunt." I suppose time will tell.

I can't wait to see what that live episode's going to be like, though! Perhaps it's a good thing we're getting out of the Oval Office...the less the writers can corrupt, the better.

The West Wing 7x05: "Here Today" - I cannot objectively rate this episode due to bias concerning the handling of Toby Zeigler's character.

Will Temple Fugate finally give up West Wing? Probably...but not yet.

[Wounded_Dragon]

Characterization has been secondary to stunts for a long time. For me, it started with Josh. Josh, while quirky and sometimes makes mistakes, was always portrayed as a brilliant political mind. More and more though, they go out of their way to yo-yo him between stupid and brilliant, and they've been doing it since at least fifth season (the seasons run together in my head).

Then it spread to Leo and CJ. The President and Leo were longtime friends, and then it's almost like they're going to fisticuffs over Israel. And then CJ is made Chief of Staff? ... yeah, her qualifications really dazzled me, not.

And then Toby's slow decline...

I'm afraid I won't recognize these people by the end of this season.

[peterparker05]

Now, I have to admit, I've mostly been watching reruns on Bravo and not the new episodes due to being out during those hours and not owning a VCR in my dormitory, but I have been able to catch a few episodes.


First off, we need more Vinick. I really enjoy his character and I feel that the election storyline works best when the two characters are shown as equal contenders for the Presidency.

Now on to last Sunday's episode.

I really loved the little scene with Stockard Channing and Martin Sheen as they went to see their daughter. Two old pro's handling one of the episodes lighter moments brilliantly.

Now on to Toby.

I can see where some felt his actions were uncharacteristic for Toby.

But I beg to differ.

Judging Toby on his appearances over the second half of the series, as that's what I've been seeing on Bravo, he is a man who often feels differently to the rest of the administration, but he feels a loyalty to his friends so he tows the line.

But, when he realized that people were going to die, just so that the Bartlett Administration could keep a state secret, I feel that Toby could justify betraying the President in his head.

In all honesty, I feel Bartlett was a little hard on Toby and I'm waiting for an episode later on in the season where he will perhaps begin to understand why Toby did what he did.

By the way, did Toby appear at the Bartlett library in the season premiere? I couldn't remember.

Also, I hope, with this pivotal episode having passed, that CJ will get to go back to her old comedic self. Just a hope.

Long live President Bartlett!

-peterparker05

[Temple Fugate]

By the way, did Toby appear at the Bartlett library in the season premiere? I couldn't remember.I've been trying to remember, myself. I guess I don't have a reason to be mad at them for "spoiling" the future anymore. :sweat:


Characterization has been secondary to stunts for a long time. For me, it started with Josh. Josh, while quirky and sometimes makes mistakes, was always portrayed as a brilliant political mind. More and more though, they go out of their way to yo-yo him between stupid and brilliant, and they've been doing it since at least fifth season (the seasons run together in my head).Ugh, I hated Josh's little arc in early 5th season. Glad he resolved it in "Shutdown," though, because if they had dragged "Everybody Hates Josh" much longer West Wing would have been unbearable to watch. I hate to keep saying it, but it's just so obvious the show lost something when Sorkin left. John Wells, or whoever is coming up with these story arcs, needs to figure out how Sorkin was able to combine compelling STORY drama with compelling CHARACTER drama. (P.S. Character drama that doesn't betray the core values of the early season characters.)

[Wounded_Dragon]

But, when he realized that people were going to die, just so that the Bartlett Administration could keep a state secret, I feel that Toby could justify betraying the President in his head.

-peterparker05
That bolded part is so very wrong. There's nothing "just" about keeping state secrets. Granted Sam was reeling from revelations about his father, but his vehement disgust over the spy who betrayed the US was palpable. And that was for a spy dead for over 30 years.

I know some may be desensitized because of the news, but this is hardly in the same ballpark. Toby's leak is set to destabilze foreign relations on a major scale.

[The Penguin]

As promised here I am. I watched all of season seven that there is to be had Friday night and I’ll be watching tonight’s episode as it happens!

Season Six thoughts: I’m not gonna say too much (well maybe I did), but I just wanted to throw out a couple things about the lead-up to this season.

The scuffle between Toby and Josh was more than a bit shocking. Toby was clearly pained about his brother’s death and took some of it out on Josh.

I assume the Walken in the GOP primary was former President Glenallen Walken? After he said he never really wanted to be president I find it disappointing that we didn’t see John Goodman last season for Walken to explain himself so to speak. I also found it interesting that a former Speaker of the House and even President for a time would apparently drop out of the race before a conservative minister with likely no political experience like Don Butler.

Santos got much more of a focus this season because Josh was running his campaign and the interest in who was actually going to win the nomination (it could have been at least a slight mystery if NBC didn’t have those Alda vs. Smits commercials all season long). Vinick is not a more simple character, but at the same time I don’t think it took as much to get to know who he was and what he was all about.

I was awfully thrown by the fact that after a while it didn’t seem like even Will Bailey believed in Vice President Russell. A part of me was disappointed that Russell didn’t get a chance to prove he was more than “the bland candidate, the triumph of mediocrity” in the national election, now he’s one of the few (possible only?) sitting Vice Presidents to be defeated in the primary. :sad:

The biggest thing I am wondering about last season is what set Santos off that he rejected Russell’s offer? Was it the “as there are, undoubtedly things that you can learn from me” comment? I know Bob Russell never got a great deal of respect from Josh and the White House staff, but the man was in Congress longer than Matt Santos (I think he was in his fifth term) and he was Vice President for almost Bartlet’s whole second term so I would think that would be true.

Now this season...

"The Ticket"
The jump to the future isn’t something we’ve seen in this show before so I can understand it feeling a bit off. I did like hearing that Will becomes a congressman and looking ahead I’m hopeful that Toby being there was a good sign. The way Josh arrived implies that he either could have arrived slightly ahead of President Santos or was he just slightly late and President Vinick was on his way.

I thought we were going to see Annabeth become the press secretary but I like seeing her as Leo’s handler as he gets used to campaigning. I liked how her first thing was making sure Leo was saying Santos right.

It was sad seeing Josh tell Donna no. Based on what Will said to Josh early last season about encouraging him to keep the campaign positive so Russell could hire him I suppose this is the way it had to be. The reactions to each other showed how much their “work split” hurt them.

I don’t know why Josh was wondering so much about why the Colorado delegation wasn’t going to come out and support Santos. I immediately thought that it wasn’t about Vinick’s popularity, but a slight bitterness over Russell’s defeat.

Good to see Oliver Babish back (although I miss the beard). After Lionel Tribbey was only in one episode I was glad to see us stay consistent here. His questions always make the other person involved somewhat uncomfortable, but he wants all the information.

After falling over each other earlier in the episode it was nice seeing Leo and Matt talk and come to more of an understanding. I think they will make a good team in the coming months.


"The Mommy Problem"
The Santos montage at the beginning of this episode was kind of neat to see as the campaign really got going, but when you give one guy a big montage it makes one wonder. :shrug:

Josh really took advantage of Santos’s Marine Reserve training and I can’t say I blame him. Matt’s plan to start it earlier was a noble move to avoid some press coverage, but it still looked like a stunt.

Which Arnold Vinick didn’t like very much. His comment on leak was strong and firm, but Santos gave an equally good one and managed to support President Bartlet at the same time.

I don’t like listening to Janeane Garofalo, but I like what it appears Lou is going to bring to the Santos campaign. She should be a good foil for Josh as long as they don’t try to hook them up.

It was rather topical for Greg Brock to get sent to prison for not revealing his leak source. I’ve grown to like him and it’s clear C.J. did too.


"Message of the Week"
I found the overlying “stay on the message of the week” theme to be a rather interesting look into the world of politics that I had never really thought about before. The Latino issues were a good political move and I didn’t think Vinick looked very bad doing it. It was all legit stuff that would have been talked about at some point and no more a stunt than what Santos’s Marine Reserve duty was.

Vinick’s interaction with George Rohr made things interesting and we got a real look into what makes Arnold Vinick tick. His being a strong moderate makes it much tougher to rally the base of his party than it is for Santos and then they won’t go vote. Arnie’s “lying to a liar” was not a very good move and it clearly didn’t make Shelia very happy which implies that this was extremely out of character for him. There is a reason that the tough on crime, pro-life Ray Sullivan is on the ticket and it looks like he was able to square things away.

I liked the meeting between Bruno and Josh and the tension between them after he helped get Bartlet re-elected. I don’t know if I would have thought about it without Temple saying something, but Josh yelling “Mother…” did feel out of character. It could also be a sign on how this race is stressing him as never before because it is his baby. Matthew Santos wouldn’t even have run without him.


"Mr. Frost"
“I need less coffee and more sleep.” Don’t we all C.J. Don’t we all.

I kind of liked Chairman Farad and was shocked that he was killed. I like that something as simple as Vinick’s intelligence briefings brought us Charles Frost who seems to know where we’re going from here.

I must admit the way Santos brought up Intelligent Design and painted Vinick into a corner he didn’t want to be in was brilliant. He made the issue news and then made his stand against it, but Vinick once again is going to have trouble with his base.

Leo’s return to Washington because of his subpoena was an interesting trip, especially because of the way he and Annabeth interacted. From the holding hands on the plane to her decline of his dinner invitation there can’t be sexual tension there can it?

“I did it.” :eek: :sad:


Also Kristin Chenworth is just about the cutest thing ever - I loved her on the plane. Hehe.I think she is too Bleu. :D She’s a fiesty little Southern belle and I really enjoy Annabeth Schott.


"Here Today"
…gone tomorrow. :sad:

Oh Toby. :crying: Why did you do it? I can only assume it had some to do with the sudden death (suicide wasn’t it?) of his brother. I hope we find out more because despite his fessing up I don’t feel like we know very much. I guess I didn’t go “that’s not the Toby I know” but I am a newer fan to the show. The writing hasn’t been as good since Sorkin left of course, but from a character standpoint I think everything that Toby and the others have dealt with the last few years have taken a toll on all of them.

And Rep. Matthew Santos, D-TX is down nine points again. This makes sense if you ask me. Vinick was viewed as nearly unbeatable before Santos was nominated and after a post-convention surge, it was a bit much for him to be within the margin of era on a man who doesn’t have to shift to the center to reach out to middle of the road voters because he’s already there.

I felt kind of bad for Ned after how long he had been with Santos. He did seem to not quite know where to go with things so maybe Josh made the right call.

So Mr. Frost may not be crazy after all? This fella certainly is interesting and if Kate Harper can use this info to prevent an assassination all the better.

I was rather disappointed when I saw that Stockard Channing was in a new series this season (which hasn’t been cancelled yet either). I never felt Abbey was a huge key to the show, but she certainly added a lot. Both parents needed to be there to plan Ellie’s wedding and hear her “news”.


By the way, did Toby appear at the Bartlett library in the season premiere? I couldn't remember.He was. Bartlet said it was good to see him as I recall.

[The Penguin]

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET on NBC both Santos and Vinick have attention called to their pro-choice views.


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THE AL SMITH DINNER
8pm 2005-10-30 ALL NEW!

BOTH CANDIDATES MUST FACE THE QUESTION OF ABORTION - A third party attack on Santos (Jimmy Smits) brings unwanted attention to both he and Vinick's (Alan Alda) stance on abortion. Meanwhile, Will (Joshua Malina) gets a promotion. Also starring Allison Janney, Martin Sheen, Brad Whitford, Kristin Chenoweth and John Spencer.

Comments?

[Temple Fugate]

Donna's return was a bit shocking, especially when you think about the possibility that some reporter is going to dig and find out she's been Josh's assistant for seven years. Won't that debunk her statement as a "regular woman" just a bit? Furthermore, I can't agree with her on the whole "I was your maid" complaint. Josh gave her the Gaza mission to boost her confidence. It wasn't his faut she almost took a car bomb in the face. He flew 1/3 of the way across the world to be at her bedside. I desperately hope any animosity she feels toward him is purely out of post traumatic stress or sexual tension, because if she still believes Josh just sees her as a "lowly attendant" she is totally off base.

I really like Santos' position on limited abortion. He believes what he believes, but he's not about to force his ideals down everyone else's throats. I don't think Vinick would force his, either, but I see Santos as more of a conflicted man about his own beliefs as Vinick is about his. However, that doesn't stop my Vote-O-Meter from sliding back toward the middle. I hope I can pick my side clearly come next Sunday.

VINICK-------X----SANTOS

I'm very disappointed with the preview. Those clips were all from old episodes! It's such a huge, unprecedented event, and they can't even show us footage from it? Come on, NBC. You can do better. I've seen you make **** up in your previews before. :p

BTW, Will's segments were awesome. His flubbed joke, the reporters falling silent, the chair flop, all of it. This is why I was so angry he left for the VP two years ago. We're denied his awesomeness!

The West Wing 7x06: "The Al Smith Dinner" - ***1/2

It's neat that they're doing the debate two different times. I hope I can snag a copy of the west coast episode. There probably won't be anything different dialogue-wise, but it would be cool to change things up like in those Drew Carey live specials. Even though that would blow continuity out of the water.

[The Penguin]

Well I promised I wouldn't leave you hanging anymore Temple and here we are just a little late. I was afraid my recap of this season was going to be a bit intimidating in length and it appears that was the case. :shrug: Ah well.

I liked seeing how one single ad can set off a chain of events that can fill an entire episode. Especially when both candidates have about an equal amount of concern over it.

I was very surprised at the reaction of RNC chairman Steve Hodder to the ad. He may run the party in many respects, but Arnold Vinick is his party's nominee and he needs to help him out. Vinick is now the official standard-bearer and leader of the party (and hopefully will be for the next eight years) and what he says needs to go. He could probably have Hodder replaced if he wanted to.

So Matthew Santos is personally pro-life?! I hope I'm not confused, but that's what I got out of it. In an issue where personal and religious beliefs almost dominate the political landscape I respect Santos for believing what he feels is right from a government perspective while holding different personal beliefs. While I respect him for it, a part of me almost felt like he was lying at the same time. He's really not, but that's kinda how I felt for some reason.

I enjoyed the meeting in the kitchen at the Al Smith Dinner. Two political giants encountering each other 60-some days before their final battle. The invitation was extended and in about 2 and half hours the debate is on!


I'm very disappointed with the preview. Those clips were all from old episodes! It's such a huge, unprecedented event, and they can't even show us footage from it? Come on, NBC. You can do better. I've seen you make **** up in your previews before. :pWhat were you expecting? Footage from a show that hasn't been taped? I think it would have hurt the mystique if they had taped a dress rehearsal for previews or something. It's live, nothing is on tape! ;)

[The Penguin]

Santos. Vinick. The Debate. Live!


http://www.nbc.com/nbc/The_West_Wing/images/campaign/pic_index_santos.jpghttp://www.nbc.com/nbc/The_West_Wing/images/campaign/pic_index_vinick.jpg

THE DEBATE
8pm 2005-11-06 ALL NEW!

THE WEST WING GOES LIVE --In a first for NBC's "The West Wing," the Emmy Award-winning series will broadcast a live episode featuring a debate between presidential candidates Congressman Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits) and Senator Arnold Vinick (Alan Alda). Two live versions will be telecast, one for the East Coast and another for the West Coast.

Comments?

[Jaguar]

That was absolutely tremendous! For a minute I almost forgot it wasn't real.

Then Ellen Degeneres interrupted to pimp American Express.

[Temple Fugate]

That was absolutely tremendous! For a minute I almost forgot it wasn't real.I wish it was real. Dumping the rules was a bold and beautiful move on Vinick's part. It ignited the episode and brought the debate to a higher level of...well, debating. It was smart, it was engaging, and it was thought-provoking. Real debates need to do this instead of handicaping the candidates and using planted audience members.

I feel sorry for that moderator. Suddenly he's trapped in between two feuding intellectuals who slowly leave their podiums and approach his desk, go beyond his desk (it was funny watching him turn over 90 degrees to look at Vinick.), and leave him humbly interrupting their badgering with gurgling and stumbling words. He needs a lozenge if you ask me. ;)

Vinick said a lot of smart things, and was met with a few boos of course because the American people are reluctant to either hear the sad truth, or make short-term sacrifices for a long-term good. However much I agree with most of his points, I have to side with Santos for one fundamental reason: Vinick said he had faith in the American people, and Santos had faith in the American government. Both have several issues that support their own stances. I'm on Santos' side because his faith in the government is what West Wing has been about from the start.

Vinick's belief that the people should be trusted more is idealistic, and I wish that's how it could be. But they just can't be trusted as much as he'd like. The government, while it can skew the "true mandate" and the real wants of the people, should be changed so that it DOES. The early seasons of West Wing showed idealistic people in positions of power willing--and sometimes even able--to change the government and the country for the better.

I figured I'd be on Santos' side in the end, and even now Vinick doesn't look like a "bad guy," but I've finally got a real reason to vote for Santos other than the plot point that he's backed by the original main cast and gets most of the spotlight. But both of these guys talked from their hearts and I respect both of them. I desperately wish I could feel this way about real presidential candidates. Maybe in 2008. Think this episode will inspire them to drop the rules in real life? Probably not. But who knows?

Welcome back to raising the level of debate in this country. For the first time in three years, this show has earned full marks.

The West Wing 7x07: "The Debate" - *****

Now I have to find out how much of those facts they mentioned are true.

[The Penguin]

No new episode tonight, The West Wing returns on December 4, but I need to weigh in with my debate thoughts.

Well this was an impressive event. It overall had a great feel and I wished it was real too. I did have to get over my feeling that it looked like a Saturday Night Live sketch and when Vinick walked too far to the right (ha) it looked like the wood panelling of the Weekend Update sketch was to his right.

It's tough to really break down points in an episode like this, but I liked it more than what I was expecting which was the typical debate format and I was even interested in that. I hope Vinick scores some points and is able to use the fact that it was his idea in the coming weeks.

In the opening moments I was afraid Vinick was going to look like a bad guy, but that passed quickly and things evened out. Both went after the other about equally and the moderator did the best he could (I would have loved for them to have used John Aniston as Alexander Thompson again from the Bartlet-Richie debate, but that was probably too much to ask for). Santos got a big win in the NBC poll, but I think we can declare Arnold Vinick the TZ winner because his votes jumped much more than Santos's did.

I must say though that Santos calling on Vinick to vow not to go to war for oil was the most asinine thing I heard all night and I hope "the West Wing American people" agree. I thought it was great that Vinick refused to cheapen the Presidency by taking such a vow. No matter what side you fall on, that controversy is a part of our world, but nothing like that has happened in the eight years of the Josiah Bartlet White House and we have no reason to believe that President D. Wire Newman or President Owen Lassiter had that controversy either. It was a partisan cheap shot on the real world and took away from the closing minutes of the debate and I respect Santos less because of it for pressing an issue that doesn't have any real meaning.


...I have to side with Santos for one fundamental reason: Vinick said he had faith in the American people, and Santos had faith in the American government. Both have several issues that support their own stances. I'm on Santos' side because his faith in the government is what West Wing has been about from the start.I can't go with you on that one. This is why I think we need a Vinick White House. I want to see a different perspective on things rather than a different take on the same issues. I mean it's not as if Vinick would sit around the Oval Office, play chess all day with Shelia and Vice President Sullivan and say "okay American people, do your thing" for eight years. The issues would just be different. While it's Vinick's view, I think it makes his possible Presidency sound better from a voter perspective. "Freedom" is much more inspiring than government.

[Temple Fugate]

I must say though that Santos calling on Vinick to vow not to go to war for oil was the most asinine thing I heard all night and I hope "the West Wing American people" agree. I thought it was great that Vinick refused to cheapen the Presidency by taking such a vow. No matter what side you fall on, that controversy is a part of our world, but nothing like that has happened in the eight years of the Josiah Bartlet White House and we have no reason to believe that President D. Wire Newman or President Owen Lassiter had that controversy either.That was the only problem I had with the entire episode. You're exactly right that Santos' idea to take that pledge came literally from nowhere. The last two US presidents in West Wing were fictional. We can safely assume there was no George Bush Sr. Maybe there was no Gulf War. (I can't recall the show ever mentioning it...but there is a strong change they have before.) If that's the case, then Santos had no logical reason to even come up with the idea. In fact, it may make it seem, to the fictional voters, that Santos would actually DO an oil war. Then it seemed the writers were trying to make Vinick look bad at the last minute by having him falter on taking the pledge, then deciding it would "demean the Presidency." Yes, it does demean the presidency, but the way Santos pestered him made Vinick look shady and untruthful. I'm just going to try to forget he even brought it up.

The fact that the writers seem to be doing these subtle things that make most viewers sympathize more with Santos is unfair. I'm not even sure how much that has affected my own judgement in terms of selecting a candidate, but I stand by my choice. I'm really starting to suspect they've been planning on Santos all along. If they have already made up their minds, then let's just have the election already. The descriptions for upcoming episodes make it seem like they're dragging this election to next February. If they already chose a winner, then I don't want to take any more of this teasing "who will win" crap. It's going to get old eventually. (Hmm...perhaps they're trying to make up for last season's year jump by extending this fall election all the way to the season finale? Ugh, I hope not.)

[The Penguin]

The descriptions for upcoming episodes make it seem like they're dragging this election to next February. If they already chose a winner, then I don't want to take any more of this teasing "who will win" crap. It's going to get old eventually. (Hmm...perhaps they're trying to make up for last season's year jump by extending this fall election all the way to the season finale? Ugh, I hope not.)I have no doubt that they are. We will have the election during sweeps and then the transition and such will wrap the season. Maybe with the new President taking office.


And to follow-up on the oil thing, let's look at the West Wing Presidents...
Josiah Bartlet 1998-2006
Owen Lassiter 1990-1998
D. Wire Newman 1986-1990

We have been given no impression there was a Gulf War in there and we know there isn't one going on now. And even if Lassiter was involved in one, eight years or more have passed since then.

[The Penguin]

The West Wing returns to NBC tonight at 8 p.m. ET.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WEScaN05.jpg

UNDECIDEDS
8pm 2005-12-04 ALL NEW!

RACIAL CONTROVERSY IN LOS ANGELES SPELLS TROUBLE FOR SANTOS - Santos (Jimmy Smits) must face the challenge of visiting an African-American family in Los Angeles whose child was shot by a Latino police officer. CJ (Allison Janney) must manage a crisis between China and Kazakhstan. Also starring Brad Whitford, Richard Schiff, Kristin Chenoweth, Josh Malina and John Spencer.

Comments?

[Temple Fugate]

Me and my stupid brain. Now that I'm home on break I've been missing Bo-Bobo, Teen Titans, IGPX, Night Court, and NOW West Wing's back and I forgot all about it because I actually have a social life when I'm home. :( Not to mention the house doesn't have a single decent VCR anymore (Tried to tape Lost the day before Thanksgiving and the only remaining good VCR decided to finally start eating tapes.) Ah well, I'll be back next week. Hope this episode was a good one.

The West Wing 7x08: "The Undecideds" - ?????

[The Penguin]

Oh, Temple. That's too bad. I've had evil VCRs and memory slips before. They take the fun out of watching TV.

I know it was on the weekend, but it felt kind of weird having so much action at the White House without Bartlet being there. Apparently he was at Camp David. I'm expecting this China-Kazakhstan stuff to become more clear tonight. Something about oil or a nuclear weapon I think.

I felt sorry for poor Ellie and Victor. Their wedding being a political event is making them very uncomfortable, but there isn't a lot that can be done about it. Will was not having a good time filling in for C.J. on this stuff. It was entertaining.

It made me sad to see Toby so bitter and so angry. He was never a happy guy, but not like this. I did like how he fought with Josh about how the fact that Santos had to be begged to run for President shows that he's not the man for the job. He is right that the job itself should be such an honor, no one should have to come to you and beg you to take it. Despite that, Josh did his best to show the former communications director that he still cared, but I don't know how much of an impact it made. With most of Toby's real friends being political, they can't really visit him right now.

The Santos campaign did not fair well in California with the boy being shot. The house visit was a disaster, but Matt did very well at the church after his Leo intro. He really managed to recover.

"The Wedding" is just going to feel weird if they have to make up an excuse for Abbey missing her daughter's wedding. That's going to be a tough sell. What a year for her to land a sitcom. I'm usually terrible about posting in this thread (but I get there, where are the rest of you? ;) ), but this week I'll be taping to watch the Survivor finale (which isn't going to help the ratings this week) so I'll catch you all eventually.

[The Penguin]

We are gathered here tonight to join this man and this woman...


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESdiN05.jpg

THE WEDDING
8pm 2005-12-11 ALL NEW!

BARTLET MANAGES PEACE BETWEEN CHINA AND RUSSIA OVER OIL/A WHITE HOUSE WEDDING - Bartlet (Martin Sheen) must try to rectify a disintegrating situation between China and Russia over oil while his daughter gets married in the White House. Josh (Brad Whitford) struggles with dwindling campaign funds and the necessary ad buys. Also starring Allison Janney, John Spencer, Jimmy Smits, Mary McCormack, Stockard Channing.

Comments?

[Divv]

I quite enjoyed this episode. Good to see Martin Sheen again - he's hardly been around this season.
Where was Vinick? It's a tragedy the lack of coverage the other campaign gets sometimes. I can't see any way of the writers making Vinick the next president even though looks great and superior at times when he's on screen. Before this season began I thought both canditates would get a pretty even share of screen time but it seems to me that the only reason that the writers have Vinick looking so good is to make Santos' achievement against the odds even more momentous. I hope I'm wrong because I'd love to be shocked when the result is announced - be it Vinick or Santos but with the way things are going I can't see much hope for a Vinick White House.

[The Penguin]

Well I finally watched my tape in the first couple days of the new year and we have another new episode tonight so I'll just check in with a few thoughts.

I love the campaign trail, but it was nice being back at the White House too. My continuity prayers were answered when Abbey was apart of the ceremony. It would have been weird if Stockard Channing's CBS show kept her from the wedding. I felt sorry for President Bartlet as he was fighting to get to his daughter's ceremony and liked how in the end it was his making an appeal that got him there. His conversation with Victor was nice too.

And it appears that Kate Harper has a bit of a crush on our dorky communications director. :D I like it, I hope this goes somewhere.

Josh is in a tough position trying to manage everything for the first time and it's only natural that he (and others) would question how he is doing. I'm glad things have become somewhat resolved in that respect. Leo can't run a campaign and run for office very easily (seeing it after John Spencer's death the 'are you trying to kill me' comment was really sad).



I can't see any way of the writers making Vinick the next president even though looks great and superior at times when he's on screen. Before this season began I thought both canditates would get a pretty even share of screen time but it seems to me that the only reason that the writers have Vinick looking so good is to make Santos' achievement against the odds even more momentous. I hope I'm wrong because I'd love to be shocked when the result is announced - be it Vinick or Santos but with the way things are going I can't see much hope for a Vinick White House.I'm in kind of the same boat you are with the candidates and I like Vinick a lot better. I still think that if they really want to reinvent the show, that Josh and Donna can't be hanging around every week. John Spencer's death may change things (that doesn't make me happy mind you) and the debate had an interesting result. I read this recently, it was written after the debate...


Vinick Sways Voters, er, Viewers on 'West Wing' (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/11/07/AR2005110701712.html)

By Lisa de Moraes

Tuesday, November 8, 2005; Page C01

After watching the live debate between Jimmy Smits's Rep. Matt Santos (D-Tex.) and Alan Alda's Sen. Arnold Vinick (R-Calif.) on "The West Wing," young viewers have changed their minds about the two faux candidates and want Alda in the White House.

Viewers 65 and older, however, came out strong for Santos, according to a survey by pollster Zogby International conducted right after Sunday's broadcast on NBC.

Yes, Jimmy Smits now skews older than Alan Alda.

For a network that chases young viewers exclusively but has seen its median age spring forward by nearly three years in one season -- from 46.4 to 49.2 years -- this ought to stop the suits in their tracks. Particularly since the network made it fairly clear it intend to put Smits in the Oval Office (his face, but not Alda's, is featured in the group mug shot on the home page of NBC's "West Wing" Web site, for instance.)The article continues from there, but when they were on basically equal footing, Vinick became more popular with younger viewers. :D Interesting if nothing else. NBC and West Wing could use drastic at this point. Alda, Patricia Richardson and Stephen Root could make for a good cast.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)


We had Santos-Vinick, now it's time for McGarry-Sullivan.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WEScyN05.jpg http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESblN05.jpgRUNNING MATES
8pm 2006-01-08 ALL NEW!

NOW IT'S TIME FOR THE VICE-PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES TO DEBATE - Leo (John Spencer) struggles through debate practice and makes Josh (Brad Whitford) and Lou (Janeane Garofalo) extremely nervous. Meanwhile, Santos (Jimmy Smits) gets a brief respite from the campaign trail to see his family. Also starring Teri Polo, Mary McCormack and Josh Malina.

Comments?

[peterparker05]

Was there any mention made of John Spencer's death prior to this episode's beginning?

I tuned in during the "last time on the West Wing" bit.

I was just curious since this is the first episode to air after his death and it is Leo-centric.

-peterparker05

[Temple Fugate]

Was there any mention made of John Spencer's death prior to this episode's beginning?Yes. Martin Sheen addressed the viewers. He mentioned Spencer's passing and said there could be no greater tribute than to show his final screen performances in the coming weeks' episodes. It was very nice.

Sunday's episode was almost classic Leo. It turned out he was on top of things from the beginning. Or, depending on how you want to look at it, maybe not quite, but regardless of any difficulty he actually had with the debate prep, he still had the plan to leak low expectations and help out the team. We didn't get another Santos/Vinnick "throw out the rulebook" scenareo, but Leo still bunked the 10-word/10-second responses and went with what was natural to him.

Mrs. Santos is starting to become annoying in sort of the way season 3-5 Abbey Bartlet was annoying. Both had their own senses of what was happening to their lives that differed from their husbands', but when you're a character that's opposing the leading guy, you're not going to appear very favorable to viewers. I completely understand their frustration at the prices they have to pay for their husbands to be president, but most of the time Abbey would yell at Bartlet or Mrs. Santos argued with her husband, I couldn't stop thinking "What did you expect?"

Kate and Will dating smells an awful lot like the writers needed to throw in a romantic subplot, but most of the main cast already had too much on their plates. I see no chemistry with these characters whatsoever. Surely there are more important things we could watch them do. Sorkin spent four years giving us compelling plotlines about nothing more than speechwriting, for crying out loud. Surely Kate's job can give her some kind of small crisis to deal with.


NBC and West Wing could use drastic at this point. Alda, Patricia Richardson and Stephen Root could make for a good cast.You know what? I wouldn't really mind that. I never had much against Alda's character, and even though I think Santos has slightly better opinions/ideals, Vinick has demonstrated good skills the few times we've seen him. I just wonder how drastically they would shift the focus from Santos to Vinick after Leo's passing, and if it would create a lot of shell shock for longtime viewers. (Of course if they had given both sides equal screen time in the first place, they wouldn't have that kind of problem.)

The West Wing 7x08: "The Undecideds" - ***
The West Wing 7x09: "The Wedding" - ***1/2
The West Wing 7x10: "Running Mates" - ****

The best exchange: (Not accurately quoted. My apologies.)
"Oh hell, just tell me you decided to marry my daughter before you got her pregnant."
"Our third date. I decided to marry her after our third date."
"And what was wrong with the first two?"

[The Penguin]

My late is earlier than usual this week. I see someone else has cast a vote for Santos.

I liked seeing Leo prep for the debate and all the stress he was going through over everyone critiquing his performance and stumbling over sound bites. With Leo's experience viewed as balancing Matt's youth and less experience, it was cool seeing the congressman offer Leo advice that seemed to really help him. I wasn't expecting another debate episode, but I would have liked to see a little bit more of Ray Sullivan and some of his responses.

I wonder if Santos getting sick is going to have an affect on the next little bit of the campaign trail. Josh had to go to Matt's house to get him to run and now Helen Santos isn't sure if she wants him to win. If it makes you feel any better Mrs. Santos, I don't want your husband to win.

It wasn't talk about a whole lot this week, but I'm not even sure what the whole Russia-China-Kasakhstan issue is anymore. Can anyone help me out?

Somehow I don't think take-out salads while watching Leo debate in his office was quite what Kate had in mind when Will asked her to dinner. Maybe his sister, Elsie Snuffin (Danica McKellar), needs to show back up and give him some girl advice. I don't think Will Bailey has a whole lot of knowledge.


Kate and Will dating smells an awful lot like the writers needed to throw in a romantic subplot, but most of the main cast already had too much on their plates. I see no chemistry with these characters whatsoever. Surely there are more important things we could watch them do. Sorkin spent four years giving us compelling plotlines about nothing more than speechwriting, for crying out loud. Surely Kate's job can give her some kind of small crisis to deal with.I actually kind of like it. I felt like we had some Sorkin-esque banter between the two of them early in the episode and it made me smile. I'm actually looking forward to seeing what develops. With the show being so much more "inside look at politics" since Sorkin left, I'm excited to seeing the supporting characters used as something else other than support.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

President Bartlet just gave away his middle daughter and now his oldest is having some problems of her own as Danny Concanon returns to the West Wing.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESatN05.jpgINTERNAL DISPLACEMENT
8pm 2006-01-15 ALL NEW!

CJ FINDS HERSELF BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE - CJ (Allison Janney) is in the thick of negotiating a deal so that Russia and China don't go to war over Kasakhstan when some potentially embarassing information about a Bartlet surfaces. Meanwhile, Josh (Brad Whitford) pressures the White House to let Santos (Jimmy Smits) announce a scientific research lab in Texas, much to the Administration's chagrin. Also starring Josh Malina and Mary McCormack.

Comments?

[Temple Fugate]

Things are getting back into a nice groove at the White House. Danny's back, and he not only persuaded her to get the administration back into an offensive position, but he proposed to her in a very cute way. The rapid pace of the episode slowed down at just the right points.

Josh was his usual self, which was fine. I cringed at Will's "Toby did it." Wow, dude. Not nice. CJ's right about him needing a bit more know-how in the Press Secretary role, though he seemed to get enough rumors to warrant suspicion on Bartlet's son-in-law regardless. The fishbowl scene was the best. I was so afraid it was going to that aquarium in the sky, but fortunately that kind of symbolism would be completely contradictory to CJ and Danny's resumed relationship. (Notice how he called it "our fish" at the restaurant?) CJ is really starting to become a proper chief of staff.

A great episode that had a lot of old-school feel. It demonstrated character strengths and the dialogue played as smart as ever. Let's hope they keep this up.

The West Wing 7x11: "Internal Displacement" - ****1/2

John Spencer is missing in this episode, obviously on the campaign trail with Santos. When CJ rushed back to the White House after dinner, I was worried the call might have been about Leo having a heart attack.

[The Penguin]

New episode tonight at 8, I'm slipping under the wire. I see someone else has cast a vote for Vinick!

I was seriously freaked when it looked like the goldfish might take a dive off C.J.'s desk! I didn't see how they could do that, but it almost happened. Whew.

It was nice seeing Danny back. I liked being immediately brought back to when he was always flirting with her the first couple seasons and she was always doing her best to combat his advances. I know the flash forward was very out of character for the show, but since we don't know how many seasons the show has left (if any), it's nice to know that things will work out.

I know that forgiveness can happen in many forms, but I was a little surprised that Liz seemed to have full knowledge of what Doug was up to/had done. If that comes out, the President is going to look bad regardless, but it's better that he wasn't in New Hampshire shaking his hand and hugging him.

That's just how he is, but I felt really sorry for C.J. having to put up with Josh like that. Obviously the administration wants Santos to win, but they can't tailor their agenda to meet the needs of "Santos for President" they need to able to focuse on what's left of their agenda (kudos to Danny for encouraging C.J. to step up).

"Can't we all just get along?" seems to be the question Russia and China need to be asked. With what just happened in California, Kasakhstan is going to have to take a back seat.


I cringed at Will's "Toby did it." Wow, dude. Not nice.So you wouldn't be happy if I said I chuckled (not LOL, just chuckled)? I thought it was kind of funny, not sure if I can explain why, but I did.


John Spencer is missing in this episode, obviously on the campaign trail with Santos. When CJ rushed back to the White House after dinner, I was worried the call might have been about Leo having a heart attack.I wish we knew exactly how many of the remaining episodes have John Spencer in them (do we?). I see to recall that IMDb had guest appearances up to the first episode in February at the time, but whether those were filmed or just announced (or if they were actually further) I have no idea (that and IMDb accuracy is always questionable).

[Divv]

Just read over at zap2it (http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271%7C99661%7C1%7C,00.html) that as expected this is the last season for The West Wing. I suppose with the ratings it was inevitable but I'd have loved to have seen the show continue with a Vinick White House. Some things just aren't meant to be. It's been a great show for seven years and everyone involved should be proud.

I'm sure I read somewhere that John Spencer had filmed up until episode 14 of the season.

[The Penguin]

I'm sure I read somewhere that John Spencer had filmed up until episode 14 of the season.Anyone can do the math, but for some reason I feel like a spoiler box is appropriate it for those who are gonna try hard to be clueless.

By my count, that would leave tonight's episode and then two more.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

As President Bartlet grapples with a possible nuclear explosion in California from the White House, the two Presidential candidates must deal with the issue from the campaign trail. Plus, California's Arnold Vinick has the added stress of the incident being the home of his constituents and most of his family.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESecN05.jpgDUCK AND COVER
8pm 2006-01-22 ALL NEW!

BARTLET FACES HIS GREATEST CHALLENGE IN OFFICE - A NUCLEAR EMERGENCY IN CALIFORNIA - Bartlet (Martin Sheen) must face the possibility of an exploding nuclear reactor in California. In the midst of this emergency exists the presidential campaign and the candidates find themselves struggling to find a good strategy to deal with the situation. Meanwhile, Kate (Mary McCormack) keeps an eye on the impending battle between Russia and China over Kazakhstan. Also starring Alan Alda, Jimmy Smits, Teri Polo, Ron Silver, Brad Whitford, Janel Moloney, Allison Janney and Josh Malina.

Comments?

[Temple Fugate]

This was a tense episode. It's good to come back to a Bartlet-focused introspective while still being able to take a look at the campaign trail (and a Vinick focus, to boot). Though I'm starting to care a lot more about the candidates themselves than their staffs. Vinick had the right mindset through the crisis, and Santos kept with Josh's original plan long after Josh switched tracks. (And it was good to see Bruno get all flustured over Josh's unexpected silence.) Kudos to Donna for doing the right thing. She's always been good at picking up subtle hints, though this time it was anything but subtle. Will's getting a good grip on his job as well and was on point this time.

Now let's get electing already!

The West Wing 7x12: "Duck And Cover" - ****

[The Penguin]

I need to get a lot better at commenting close to the air date. I feel embarassed in a minor message board sort of way. The West Wing returns tonight! This last episode happened to be on Bravo on Monday. They have been showing season seven for I believe marathon Monday.

This was a strong episode with plenty of good drama and with a Vinick focus that made Santos more of a cameo and a player in Vinick’s story.

The thing that I like about Arnold Vinick is that despite being somewhat of a ‘villain’ to all the rest of the characters on the show, he isn’t treated like one (save for that oil pledge bs). He is a firm believer in nuclear energy and is willing to stick up for it. He made himself look bad when he made that press statement, but the press love to jump all over things. Vinick is just too honest and straight forward for his own good sometimes.

As I believe I had said before (and I don’t mean just a few lines up), when Vinick is featured, Santos takes a very strong backseat if he appears at all (I like that). You have to be a strong personality to make Josh Lyman sit and that’s what Matt did here. Then he sent Donna out to reveal Vinick’s connection to San Andreo and the press already knew it! As Temple said, Bruno was going crazy waiting for Josh to attack!

The Vinick-Bartlet fight was sight behold, two elder statesmen arguing about their beliefs was a great, tense moment. Then they both came back down and the President asked for a second call sheet for Arnie.

There was something ominous and powerful about the two campaigns changing their boards. Bob and Bruno were taking down an awful lot of red (South Dakota?! Wow.) And Josh wrote four simple words at the top…

TOO CLOSE TO CALL

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

TOO CLOSE TO CALL The West Wing returns as Election Day nears with Senator Vinick reeling from his support of nuclear power coupled with the incident in his homestate of California.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESaaN05.jpgTHE COLD
8pm 2006-03-12 ALL NEW!

A NUCLEAR SCARE LEVELS THE PLAYING FIELD - After the near disaster at the San Andreo nuclear plant, the polls come back with surprising results for the candidates. Meanwhile, Bartlett (Martin Sheen) is forced to consider putting US troops on the ground to keep peace in Central Asia. Also starring Alan Alda, Jimmy Smits, Bradley Whitford, Allison Janney.

Comments?

[The Penguin]

When I wait, I don’t post forever, so I guess I’ll kick things off this week…

I dunno, maybe it’s because some of it was bad news for Vinick, but I found this episode kinda depressing. Seriously, after watching it I just felt down.

The whole Josh and Donna thing was happy and yet sad. They’ve pussyfooted around each other for eight-nine years and then something happens in the heat of the moment that has the potential to change everything. The end where she tried to leave him her and then someone else scooped it up seemed to be just another sign that the stars are against them.

I think they said 44-44 was the official count now? Bob and Bruno may be right that a lot of the undecideds will swing back to Vinick. At the same time there is a risk enough of them will go to Santos. And I know Josh has always been the political operative who will do just about anything that is legal (and not too shady if it is), but I was a little bothered by how happy he was that Vinick had a cold. That could just be because Vinick is my ‘horse’ so to speak, but it still bugged me.

I know not all of you have been excited about Will and Kate hooking up, but I think it’s cute and I actually found more of a basis for it. You know how hindsight is 20/20 and things from past TV seasons can mean more when you apply them to the current one? Well I saw some of episode 6.16, “Drought Conditions” one random morning on Bravo and when they are having that reception that includes people from both campaigns there is a moment where Will and Kate agree to pretend to talk to each other to avoid having to speak to other people. It’s the same type of exchange they have now in the early stages of their relationship. Of course with Will Bailey possessing a genuine Kate Harper bra it seems things are moving along. :p

The Kazakhstan issue is heating up and I still don’t feel like I completely understand it. I guess I missed something early on. This started late last season, right? What President Bartlet is preparing to do sounds eerily like what Iraq is now. The reasons for going in are clearer than many feel our real conflict is, but the concerns Vinick and Santos have are very real concerns. I liked how both men were concerned independent of whose presidency it would be. Santos talked about political capital and Vinick mentioned both of their pet projects.

After the way he acted last time, I was less than thrilled to see RNC Chairman Hodder back at Vinick headquarters. And that… woman he brought with him, Jane Braun was significantly less than pleasant. As a moderate, Vinick has shown he detests the religious right base ‘values’ of the party so I can’t imagine he enjoyed that talk any more than Sheila and Bruno enjoyed their short version.

I didn’t cry, but I was really sad to Sheila volunteer to resign to help Vinick’s campaign. Near as I can tell, she has been with him a long time. Shelia very well could have worked in his office and moved up the ranks since he was elected. Arnold Vinick looked so alone as he approached the theater. Like he’d lost his best friend. It’s possible he has.

[The Penguin]

Hey folks, if you happened to miss this week's episode of The West Wing, I have good news for you! According to TVGuide.com it is airing on Bravo in 45 minutes at 8 p.m. ET! Take advantage of your second chance and I'll see you on the flip side!


THE COLD
8pm 2006-03-13 ON BRAVO!

A NUCLEAR SCARE LEVELS THE PLAYING FIELD - After the near disaster at the San Andreo nuclear plant, the polls come back with surprising results for the candidates. Meanwhile, Bartlett (Martin Sheen) is forced to consider putting US troops on the ground to keep peace in Central Asia. Also starring Alan Alda, Jimmy Smits, Bradley Whitford, Allison Janney.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

With just 14 days left to go, both campaigns work to gain the advantage and the lead.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESehN05.jpgTWO WEEKS OUT
8pm 2006-03-19 ALL NEW!

IT'S JUST TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE ELECTION - The candidates are feeling the burden of the campaign trail as it gets down to the end. An interesting and unexpected twist gives Vinick (Alan Alda) an opportunity to damage the Santos (Jimmy Smits) campaign. Also starring Brad Whitford, Kristin Chenoweth, Ron Silver, Janeane Garofalo.

Comments?

This episode also airs on Bravo tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET. I don't want to talk to myself this week. I know you people are out there. Come on in! The big stuff is starting to happen and the series is nearing the end. If you saw the teaser for upcoming episodes it's gonna get more interesting.

[peterparker05]

Argh!

I had rehearsel so I missed this episode tonight, but the season has been amazing and looks like it won't wind down but acutally wind up into a big finish.

However, a neighbor of mine from down the hall is taping it for me. I'm going to be so excited to see it!

-peterparker05

P.S. After last week's episode, I downloaded Billie Holliday's Body and Soul. It makes me happy and sad at the same time.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

Bon Jovi guest stars as Congressman Santos is run ragged on all Hallow's Eve. Plus Toby is officially indicted.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESeuN05.jpgWELCOME TO WHEREVER YOU ARE
8pm 2006-03-26 ALL NEW!

THE SHUTTLE LEAK PLAYS A PART IN THE CAMPAIGN - The Attorney General pressures Toby (Richard Schiff) to reveal his source on the shuttle leak. Meanwhile, Santos (Jimmy Smits) is on a dizzying tour of the country. Also staring Jon Bon Jovi, Teri Polo, Brad Whitford, Janeane Garofalo.

Comments?

This episode also airs on Bravo tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET. No excuses.
You people are making me sad. I make myself sad sometimes, I'll comment on tonight and last week very soon.

[Stewie]

You people are making me sad. I make myself sad sometimes, I'll comment on tonight and last week very soon.Now I feel bad. After I watch the tape I'll comment. At some point.

[Temple Fugate]

Throwing that Chineese/Russian thing in should have had more of an impact on the election campaign than what we've seen. I guess the reporters are just more interested in nuclear meltdowns close to home than what Vinick or Santos will think of sending thousands of troops overseas. The episode gets high marks, though, for all-around good quality and drama. I liked Bartlet's comment on what the troops are going to wear.

The West Wing 7x13: "The Cold" - ****

Next up is an awesome episode with good spotlight on Vinick. I'm really liking this guy now. For a while I was going along with the episode's tease and thought there really was this shady illegitimate son business on Santos' end, but it turned out to be his brother's. I'm not quite sure how to feel with that teasing and twisting, all I know is the revelation that it was his brother's son made me go "whew!" I was really cheering for Vinick during that til-they-drop press conference. Maybe I made the wrong choice for candidates after all. :shrug: If any episode this season got me second-guessing who I'd vote for, this is it.

The West Wing 7x14: "Two Weeks Out" - ****1/2

The end is near...but you can't hear it over all the talking. I started getting the same headache Santos undoubtedly had throughout last night's episode. It was different, to be sure. I couldn't decide which simultaneous conversation I was more interested in. Bon Jovi's appearance was neat, and I'm glad they didn't turn his role into the "special guest star shows up and fixes everything/gives the main characters a revelatory speech" like most shows would. He was just there in the middle of everything and it was cool.

Kristen Chennowith was around in this one, talking about Leo occasionally but we never saw him. So I started guessing as to how they would deal with John Spencer's death.
I thought they would just pretend like he's "in the next room" or "in another state right now" until the end of the series, but from the looks of the preview they really are going to kill him off. More thoughts on that next week.

This episode wins the "Favorite Title of the Season" award, regardless of how I saw absolutely no relevance for it within the episode itself.
The West Wing 7x15: "Welcome to Wherever You Are" - ****

Did Wing get a full 22-episode order or not?

[The Penguin]

Welcome back, gentlemen. Lovely to see you. Double check-in for me...

"Two Weeks Out"
I gotta say that my strong support of Arnold Vinick makes me much more interested in the proceedings, especially an episode like this one. I found myself gettting rather excited or upset in parts. When Bruno was looking through the briefcase I found myself going, “What did you find Bruno? What did you find?”

Vinick’s press conference was a great move (despite what Jane thought). I was very impressed how he handled the whole thing. Arnold Vinick is a natural leader. Toby said it best, “Damn this guy is good.”

Toby, or ‘Bob’ seems to be helping bring Josh back down. He seems to be handling it, but at the same time he is clearly overwhelmed. It was a fun moment when Toby ordered Josh to shut up and let him talk. He was all over the map.

“It can make you President.”
So the checks are going to Matt’s niece? I suppose Santos would have felt indignant no matter what after Vinick told him that Bruno went through his briefcase, but I assume it’s the truth. You never know though.


"Welcome to Wherever You Are"
“Do you think we’re gonna win?”
“I do.”

Congressman Matt Santos was just being run ragged over the course of the episode! He and Josh didn’t seem to have the same concerns when it came to what he needed on his schedule. Matt really wanted to do something with Kazakhstan and Josh kept putting that stuff off. He is right though, the last five days can’t be about policy (at least that much), it needs to be about selling “President Matthew Santos” to the country (personally, I want them to buy “President Arnold Vinick” on the other side of aisle :D ).

The NBC summary had it wrong, it was the U.S. Attorney, not Attorney General that was talking to Toby. I spent all week wondering if Dylan Baker’s schedule (Book of Daniel and Spider-Man 3) would have allowed him to return as Alan Fisk and then that position wasn’t even represented in the episode. Toby was right about the obstruction of justice charge, it may come his way, but not like the guy was threatening.

It was nice seeing the twins a little bit older. They were so cute. :) I liked seeing Andi again too, but I felt bad for everything she is going through because of Toby, even though they aren’t even married. Great to have her back though.

As he was being questioned something was bother me, who did tell Toby about the shuttle? Was it just the info he got from C.J. and he’s lying about it? Is there another connection? Could Bartlet… :confused:



For a while I was going along with the episode's tease and thought there really was this shady illegitimate son business on Santos' end, but it turned out to be his brother's.The child is a daughter, but I still kept up. :p


I was really cheering for Vinick during that til-they-drop press conference. Maybe I made the wrong choice for candidates after all. :shrug:Well I coulda told ya that. ;)


This episode wins the "Favorite Title of the Season" award, regardless of how I saw absolutely no relevance for it within the episode itself."Welcome to Wherever You Are" actually really fits. Santos was going to so many places, half the time he seemed to have no idea where he was. At the beginning he was saying good-bye to Chicago and Helen told him they were in St. Louis. So rather than "Welcome to Philadelphia" or "Welcome to Dayton" it was "Welcome to Wherever You Are." Santos was asked on more than one occasion who he thought would win the game and gave the same answer no matter where he was.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

The big day has arrived!!!


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESekN05.jpgELECTION DAY
8pm 2006-04-02 ALL NEW!

IT'S ELECTION DAY ON THE WEST WING - The night before Election Day makes for interesting bedfellows. Josh (Brad Whitford) stresses over returns. Meanwhile, CJ (Allison Janney) is faced with her future job offers. Anabeth (Kristin Chenoweth) makes a startling discovery. Also starring Jimmy Smits, Alan Alda, Teri Polo, Josh Malina, Mary McCormack, Dule Hill.

Comments?

This episode also airs on Bravo tomorrow at 8 p.m. ET (new time). I think I'll be watching it again.

[Temple Fugate]

To recap: Sex, sex, sex, coffee, polling data analysis, sex, polling data analysis, sex, sex, Josh going crazy, sex, heart attack.

Yup, this is the episode of West Wing I've waited a whole season for all right.

Seriously, what was with all the foreplay? There's a difference between portraying wholesome sex and turning the campaign into a brothel. I think the writers were having trouble making the real story (the polling data and how it is inaccurate and unbalanced at the source) carry its proper weight through the episode, so decided to fall back on over-covering the budding relationships. Too far is too far when they have Josh's ex-girlfriend shacking up with the head go-fer.

To top off the insanity, the episode is capped not by the blatant revelation that Josh and Bruno have been investigating--the polling data is broken--but by the sudden death of Leo McGarry. I'm not going to complain about how his death could have been broken better because it couldn't. But tacked onto the end of an episode mostly concerned with sex... I think John Spencer deserved more than that. At any rate, it at least puts things back in perspective.

The next episode will prove a lot more interesting.

Incidentally, I've enjoyed how the supporting characters have been getting more and more establishment in these past few episodes. They're taking up so much more time than the main cast, they deserve to be characterized more.

Martin Sheen's only appearance in three episodes was on a tv screen. :shrug: Presidencies really are anti-climactic.

The West Wing 7x15: "Election Day" (not to be confused with "Election Night") - ***

[Delthayre]

What was with all of that sex? Seriously, I'm starting to get really tired of sex in general. It's not a prude thing (but I am a prude), it's just crowding out actual story.

You know, I think I like the Vinnick staff more than the Santos staff, maybe because Gerafalo pisses me off no matter what she does. Besides, they've got Stephen Root.

I enjoyed the freaking out over the poll numbers. But I'm a nervous political geek who thinks he's on the verge of flunking out of college because the paper I just wrote is abysmal trash that the professor will chew me out for having even submitted, so I could empathize with the intense focus on tedium and sword of Damocles feeling.

The polling useless of polling data also hit home. I prefer not to dwell on the depressing embarassment that was the Kerry campaign, but I'll always remember when Zogby called the election for Kerry by a comfortable margin at something like four in the afternoon.

It's a pity we saw neither Sheen nor Alda in this episode, but so it goes.

I don't watch enough TWW to feel comfortable rating it, so just mark me down as ambivalen, but enjoying the statistical fretting while wishing that they would waste less of our viewing time with sex.

[peterparker05]

***3/4

Oh my West Wing.

I was curious as to how they were going to handle Josh and Donna together and, thankfully, I was pleased. Their post-coital interactions seemed spot-on, especially given the circumstances.

I do think that having three other campaign hook-ups might have been a bit much but it didn't detract from the story for me.

However, I do wish that we had at least gotten a scene with Vinick and how he was handling he election day stress, something similar to what was given Santos.

And those last few moments....with Annabeth going to Leo's room...I got tense even though I knew it was coming. The fallout from these short few moments should be interesting next week. I'm especially interested to see Bartlett's reaction. He and Leo were best friends. I'm sure it'll be devastating or perhaps extremely subtle. I have faith that Martin Sheen and the writers will not let me down.

All in all, this was another quality episode in the remaining chapters of the West Wing saga. Television will lose one of it's great dramas when this show goes off the air next month.

[The Penguin]

I guess everyone turns out to go to the polls. :p I had to watch it on Bravo because of bad weather in my area that wasn’t in my area. And then it just took me a while. :o Part II airs tonight (and Monday on Bravo)! As a random note, once we have a new President, I will close the poll in this thread.

It was a bit weird and maybe even disconcerting to see everyone hooking up like that. The first one was funny in a way, but then everyone left paired up with someone. They even had lesbians! What really felt wrong to me was Bruno hooking up. Seemed out of character for him, but the next day with Jane he acted like he always did that.

It happened is kind of a different way, but it was in some ways nice to see Josh and Donna finally get together. I suppose they’ve acted like a couple for years in the office that the physical side is really all that’s left. As the episode went on, it seemed rather nonchalant, although I guess it’s been building for almost a decade.

I was very concerned at how much Josh and (to a lesser degree) Bruno were being driven nuts by the polling. It makes me very concerned that we may not have a new President at the end of Election Day.

Back at the White House, it was nice seeing C.J. and Charlie(!!) again as they weighed what was next for her and for them. It’s been a while since either of them have had much to do. I also liked seeing what Will and Kate were up to and taking stock in where their relationship is going as Election Day signals the beginning of the end of the Bartlet White House. There you have it, Kate Harper, concerned with National Security cast her vote for the “experience and mature judgment” of Arnold Vinick. :D

I know the whole thing with Leo was coming, but it was still very hard to watch. In some ways, it feels like John Spencer is dying all over again. :crying:

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

As American continues to vote, Santos, Josh and company must decide how to deal with Leo's heart attack. Then... The. Votes. Are. In.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESfbN05.jpgELECTION DAY, PART II
8pm 2006-04-09 ALL NEW!

THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION ARE IN - As the polls close and results are tallied, emotions are running high. Santos (Jimmy Smits) and Josh (Brad Whitford) are faced with the loss of their Vice Presidential candidate. Meanwhile, Vinick (Alan Alda) disagrees with his campaign team. Also starring Janel Moloney, Janeane Garofalo, Ron Silver.

Miss it? Want to see it again? Be watching Bravo at 8 p.m. ET for your second chance.

Comments?

I had grand plans of doing this great essay about the two choices before the writers of The West Wing, but one thing led to another and I never finished it. With tonight most likely being the night, I’ll share my intro. I had planned to break down both candidates also…

With the series ending, it leaves the show with two different directions. One provides closure for all long-time characters, a sense of work completed. The other gives a sense of optimism about the future of some of the characters as there is still work left to do. It all depends on which man looks out the window of the Oval Office and across the lawn, full of hope for what the next four or eight years will bring to his presidency and the United States of America.

The first direction is President Arnold Vinick. The other is President Matthew Santos.

One of the points I had planned to make was how Alan Alda was been honored for his portrayal of Arnold Vinick with an Emmy nomination for ‘Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series’ (damn you Denny Crane!) and a SAG nomination for ‘Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series’ (hating Jack Bauer will get me shot). Jimmy Smits is no stranger to awards with 10 Emmy noms and one win, but has gotten nothing for Matt Santos.

"What’s next?"

[Stewie]

During this episode was the first time all season where I actually had doubts about who would win. Not for one second did I buy that "it could go either way" line Wells was giving us. But for ten minutes today I was nervous.

Good. The preordained winner won after all.

Sen. Vinnick is a class act. The kind that I can really respect, and celebrate when I see lose.

Farewell Leo and Mr. Spencer. You will be missed.

[Wounded_Dragon]

This part and the episode were much more respectful to Spencer, I believe. I have to wonder if part of why Josh was obsessing over the polls was to avoid thinking about Leo dying.

Bruno likes hooking up with women, he did it last time he worked an election on the show. Granted he won that one, but still.

[Temple Fugate]

This was a very decent episode. Next week is the real send-off, but you could definitely feel the pain the actors had really gone through months ago. Donna and Josh talking in Leo's room was probably one of the best moments.

Stewie's right. This ep did build the tension nicely and for a moment threw into doubt the clear winner. It's very possible at this point the writers could have thrown the curveball. We're five episodes from the end of the series, we could instead watch all the characters move on to different things instead of watchig half of them move back into the White House for four more years. What's it gonna be?

Boo! Only cartoons abbreviate "Part!"
The West Wing 7x17: "Election Day Pt. II" - ****1/2

I bet you the final scene of West Wing is Santos sitting down in the Oval with his new staff and saying "What's next?"

[Stewie]

Stewie's right.Quoted for posterity.


I bet you the final scene of West Wing is Santos sitting down in the Oval with his new staff and saying "What's next?"Seconded.

[The Penguin]

Matt Santos - 272, Arnold Vinick - 266
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/Bordo316/WW_Vinick-Santos-electoralmap.jpg
Alaska - Vinick, District of Columbia - Santos, Hawaii - Santos
Other great stuff about the Election, including real-life Electoral comparisons over at Footnote TV (http://www.newsaic.com/ftvww149i.html)Well I didn't want to change my avatar until I commented and then that kept not happening. Needless to say, I was more than a little disappointed with the outcome.

The intensity of waiting for the votes played out really well and it seemed like it could have gone either way for quite a while there. Hard to believe it all came down to Nevada. A state neither candidate spent a lot of time in. That's why I liked the Electoral College, each state has a say in who is elected. Nevada has just five votes and elected the President.

Arnold Vinick not challenging the results seems in line with what we have learned about him, but I don't blame Sheila, Bruno, Jane and Bob trying to get him to. This is and was his last hurrah. I don't seen Vinick running again at his age. Alda is 70 and I believe Vinick is right around there, maybe a couple years older.

When President Bartlet asked C.J. if there was a winner and then there was partying in the Santos control room I knew it was over. Good speech from President-elect Santos, but not what I wanted to see.

It was tough seeing Josh and everyone going through Leo's death. Santos didn't seem to appreciate all the talk about replacing Leo at that moment. I wish we would have seen Mallory, hopefully she is on tonight. I've always said Vinick was a man of strong convictions and I liked seeing him stand up to his staff when they wanted him to say something more or less negative about Leo dying.


I admit this is a bit trivial, but apparently if Leo (and John Spencer) hadn't died, Vinick would have won (http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/10/arts/television/10wing.html). :sad:


Like many political campaigns, the presidential election depicted last night on "The West Wing" on NBC would have had a different ending had it been held four months ago.

But the reversal of fortune for Matt Santos — the Democratic nominee, played by Jimmy Smits, who was the victor — had nothing to do with any shift in opinion among voters.

Instead, Lawrence O'Donnell, an executive producer of the show, said he and his fellow writers had declared Santos the winner only after the death, in mid-December, of John Spencer, who portrayed Santos's running mate, Leo McGarry. At the time of Mr. Spencer's death, the plot for last night's episode had been set: the election was to be won by Alan Alda's Arnold Vinick, a maverick Republican (modeled a bit on Senator John McCain), whom many Democrats (including the Democrats who write the show) could learn to love.

But after Mr. Spencer died, Mr. O'Donnell said in a recent interview, he and his colleagues began to confront a creative dilemma: would viewers be saddened to see Mr. Smits's character lose both his running mate and the election? The writers decided that such an outcome would prove too lopsided, in terms of taxing viewers' emotions, so a script with the new, bittersweet ending — including the election-night death of Mr. Spencer's character — was undertaken by John Wells, executive producer of "The West Wing" and "E.R."

[article continues, minor spoilers]

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

Leo Thomas McGarry is laid to rest as his friends and co-workers remember the great man who touched all their lives. :crying:


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESfkN05.jpgREQUIEM
8pm 2006-04-16 ALL NEW!

FAMILIAR FACES SAY GOOD-BYE TO AN OLD FRIEND - Bartlet (Martin Sheen) and his current staff as well as those from the past, come together for Leo's funeral. Santos (Jimmy Smits) is faced with the loss of his running mate. Also starring Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Brad Whitford, Kristin Chenoweth.

Comments?

Remember Leo again tomorrow night on Bravo at 8 p.m. ET. That's when I'll be watching it, because my stupid NBC afflilate cut into the beginning telling me about weather well outside of where I am. :mad:

[Temple Fugate]

I'm really going to miss that gravely yet upbeat voice of reason he had.

They handled Leo's/Spencer's death respectfully and as well as could be expected. It was great seeing a lot of old faces at the funeral and in the White House. Ainsley Hayes was the most surprising appearance. I half-expected the ghost of Mrs. Landingham to show up, but that would be way over the line.

Josh's ex-girlfriend reappeared, and for the first time in months I realized the brunette that was on the Santos campaign staff was NOT HER. I don't know HOW I've been confusing those two women, they look and sound NOTHING alike. :ack: I retract my remark from "Election Day" part I that it was out of character for her to be shacking up with the young go-fer.

Josh and Danny's expressions when Danny sat down next to him was great. Neither of them are getting sex tonight. :p This is about as far as West Wing should take their sexual plotlines. However, having these elements of their social/personal life coming up during Leo's wake is a bit insensitive...but, well, I guess they're only human. And perhaps Leo would have wanted it that way.

I really lost myself during the scene in the Residence where they exchanged Leo stories. That was such a genuine moment, and something that Wing has been lacking very much for the last couple of years. These last few episodes are probably going to be the same mentality, bringing the cast back together for their final days and once again working with each other instead of sprawled all across the country on individual quests.

The news about Vinick being the winner before Spencer's death is surprising, but it could have worked out very well. It's seemed like Santos was automatically being setup as the winner all this time, and to have a turnaround on election day would have been a genuine surprise. I no longer care that Santos won the day...Vinick could have made a great president as well. :shrug:

The West Wing 7x18: "Requiem" - ****

[The Penguin]

I gotta say that overall, I was let down by this episode. It wasn’t at all what I expected. I was expecting a real dedication to Leo and instead it was just a part of the episode. :shrug:

I had a hard time with all the Santos stuff because it didn’t feel right. I admit that President-elect Santos had to hit the ground running, but I would have liked things to just not be focused on him.

I did find the things he was going through interesting, his unfortunate need for a VP adds something more and just the general transition stuff is going to be a side we haven’t seen before.

Josh seemed very concerned about Santos taking advice from Barry Goodwin, who is obviously a great resource, but doesn’t have perfect ideas. It was sad seeing Congressman Fields (I think it was) basically turn on his friend Matt because he couldn’t throw the Speaker election his way. I can’t disagree about the President-elect’s goals on lobbying though. Sounds like that would work.

I like Matt’s conversation with Amy about what she is doing. The comment about it being tougher to build a house than “throw rocks at it” was great. He was right that with everything else he can’t go picking a female president. Eric Baker does seem like a good choice. I assume we’ll see.

The whole C.J.-Danny, Josh-Donna thing was kind of funny, but it’s just odd hearing the cast talk about these kinds of things. :shrug: It’s nice to see some closure with these two couples that have long denied or tried to deny their feelings for so long though.


The part that was dedicated to Leo I liked, but as I said, I thought there would be more at the same time. The extended opening was hard to watch. Seeing so many faces from the past was nice and it really got to me. John Spencer died months ago, but ‘Leo’ dying made it more real and brought it all back.

I felt bad at the end that Toby couldn’t be there when they were hanging out all swapping stories. Even so, it was a really nice moment with all of them gathered around and President Bartlet telling stories to his staff. That’s what this show used to be about—the people.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

President-elect Santos starts acting like the President, but Josiah Bartlet still has the job. Plus Sam returns to the West Wing!!


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESfpN05.jpg
TRANSITION
8pm 2006-04-23 ALL NEW!

THE PRESIDENT AND PRESIDENT-ELECT SEE FOREIGN POLICY DIFFERENTLY - Eyebrows are raised when the President-elect places a call to the president of China and offers a different position than that of Bartlet (Martin Sheen). Meanwhile, Josh (Brad Whitford) picks his deputy chief of staff. Also starring Rob Lowe, Janel Moloney, Anna Deavere Smith, Teri Polo.

Comments?

Watch it again or for the first time, tomorrow on Bravo at 8 p.m. ET.

Post 10,500!

[Wounded_Dragon]

The political posturing was interesting, but a little too reminscent of Law and Order's "twist" every other episode.

In addition...I think there's been more public displays of affection in the last few episodes than in all of West Wing.

[The Penguin]

Josh was running on empty in this episode. Anyone who’s drinking Red Bull can’t have much energy (or taste, blech) left. The moment he snapped out Otto (who I really like) it was clear he wasn’t handling anything very well. Good thing Sam was there to talk him down.

It’s nice to see Sam back! I always a little surprised that we never saw him again after the House election. We were left to assume he lost, but it was neither confirmed nor denied. Josh stepping into the law firm office was very reminiscent of the flashback when Josh came and got Sam out of a meeting to work on the Bartlet campaign. Sam was just as I remember him and it should be great having him back for the final three episodes (wow, that’s really it, isn’t it).

Josh and Donna took a real step in this episode. Up until this point it was pretty unclear as to what they had and I think Donna sensed that too with the timeline she gave her former boss. With the plane ride/vacation it looks like everything is going to work out. :)

The President and the President-elect seem to be playing a game of good President, bad President with China and Russia. It’s so crazy it just might work.

“This is crazy.” :eek: You’re dang right it is! New episode tonight!


In addition...I think there's been more public displays of affection in the last few episodes than in all of West Wing.Indeed there has been. Not that the competition was fierce up to this point.

[Temple Fugate]

A bit hard to sit through this episode, with all of Josh's overblown Joshishness, which I've never liked about the character. :shrug: It's great to see that Sam came back and set him straight. He was always there to ballance out Josh's dynamic personality in the early seasons and is the perfect choice for Communications Director. It's a good thing Wing got cancelled...Rob Lowe probably would not have returned for a permanent job at the White House otherwise.

The scene in the board room was staged perfectly. We don't even see Sam until he turns around and sees Josh, and I had completely forgotten he was returning tonight. Unlike "Two Gunmen," however, Sam is more reserved about running away to D.C. Seems years away from the center of government have been good to him. Seeing him all tidy and polished is quite a contrast to a majority of the principal cast, espeically Josh. It reminds me of all the crap they've had to deal with the last four years.

The Bartlet/Santos secret team-up was more confusing than it was surprising. I'm interested to see how it goes, though. The President has been known to do these crazy ideas before.

The West Wing 7x19: "Transition" - ****

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

While Mr. and Mrs. Santos go about preparing for their new responsibilies, Arnold Vinick thinks about his next step after 24 years in the Senate.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESdfN05.jpg
THE LAST HURRAH
8pm 2006-04-30 ALL NEW!

BEING PRESIDENT CAN BE HARD ON THE FAMILY - While Santos (Jimmy Smits) is wrapped up in choosing his new Vice President, Helen (Teri Polo) is overwhelmed by the issues facing the new First Family. Meanwhile, Vinick (Alan Alda) must find a new road now that the election is over. Also starring Brad Whitford, Janeane Garofalo.

Comments?

The Bravo replay is Monday at 8 p.m. ET in case you miss it.

[The Penguin]

From the moment she was pressed and revealed that she wasn’t sure if she wanted her husband to win, I never really liked Helen Santos. I didn’t hate her, but it made me like Vinick even more because he didn’t have a whiney wife. It was great to see Agent Ron Butterfield again (we haven’t see him since season five), but I got tired of her reaction to everything he said. She doesn’t seem to be capable of handling any of it.

With all the talk of Santos wanting Eric Baker to be his VP, I really hope we see Ed O'Neill again before the series ends. I’m not expecting much above a cameo, but he’s gotta make an appearance.

At first it was hard for me to watch Arnold Vinick go about his post-election life. He seemed like a sad, old man who didn’t know his time was over. I wanted him to win so badly it was painful to watch (even more so with the knowledge that at one time he was going to win). The man gave it all he had from the moment he told Josh that he wanted the only job President Bartlet couldn’t give him and he did it his way. I can’t imagine how hard it was for Sheila and Bob to tell him it was over.

I didn’t like him as much, but Matt Santos is a good and honorable man. Offering Vinick arguably the most powerful Cabinet position in Secretary of State was huge move that showed the amount of respect he has for Vinick. I believe he was the chair of the foreign relations committee. While it would never happen except in the most extreme of events, this also puts Vinick fourth in line to become President behind Vice Presidnet Baker?, Speaker Seldner and the President pro tempore of the Senate. He’s the first member of the Cabinet in Presidential Succession.

I liked how the episode ended. Vinick gave his “terms” so to speak and while he didn’t officially accept the job, I loved how it trailed off him with him advising the President-elect on what his best move would be. I don’t know if it would be true if the show weren’t ending, but I feel like The West Wing has gotten at least a piece of its soul back.

[Temple Fugate]

(entire "Last Hurrah" review)I pretty much agree with everything you said. Agent Butterfield was great, though I was always annoyed how professional he sounded, even though he must know how intimidated the First Lady and others are. But I guess that's protocol. The chat with the kids was nice.

Josh's absence was refreshing. Hope he and Donna are having fun.

Putting the kids in a public school is fine, until middle or high school. By then I'd definitely go with private school.

I fully expected Vinick to become Santos' VP, but Sec of State is probably even better. They could make a good team.

The West Wing 7x20: "The Last Hurrah" - ***1/2

[The Penguin]

Josh's absence was refreshing. Hope he and Donna are having fun.Ya know, it really was. This week made me fully realize how irritating he had been getting.

[Wounded_Dragon]

I fully expected Vinick to become Santos' VP, but Sec of State is probably even better. They could make a good team.


I wonder if this was a nod to Vinick fans and/or historian buffs: early US history, it was the Secretary of State (not the Vice President) that would be the next President.

[Temple Fugate]

I wonder if this was a nod to Vinick fans and/or historian buffs: early US history, it was the Secretary of State (not the Vice President) that would be the next President.Not to mention the person with the second largest amount of votes (aka the guy in the other party) became the VP, thus making the Executive branch bi-partisan automatically.

[Delthayre]

Yes, though the original electoral system didn't last long, but the customary succession of the secretary of state to the presidency lasted until James Buchanan.

It was a nice scene. As I have intimated before, I like Vinick a lot, Alda does a wonderful job playing him and I have to admit that a serious Republican that doesn't jump up and down yelling about flags and homosexuals or whatever moral claptrap whenever he smells votes was something I found it curiously easy to like. I hope he gets at least a few more scenes before the end of the series, but then again, there are others who I could say the same of. Ensemble casts can be tricky like that.

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

C.J. and Will get ready to pack up shop.


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESdzN05.jpgINSTITUTIONAL MEMORY
8pm 2006-05-07 ALL NEW!

CJ IS FORCED TO LOOK AT HER FUTURE - As Bartlet's administration prepares to transition in the Santos administration, CJ (Allison Janney) is faced with what to do with her future. Will (Josh Malina) is also in a position of uncertainty about what is to come. Also starring Richard Schiff, Mary McCormack.

One last chance to see the second to last episode, Bravo replay is Monday at 8 p.m. ET.

Comments?

To give C.J. and Will the send-off they deserve I'm even going against my format of using the more vertical pictures.

[Temple Fugate]

"We had it good for a while, didn't we?"
"Yeah we did."

Normally the idle institutional chatter is somewhat interesting, but a lot of the throwaway conversations in this episode didn't really do anything except punctuate the fact that everybody is packing up and leaving. I found myself tuning out several times. Sorkin never did that to me.

It's good to see CJ coming to Toby and having a good conversation. The Constitutional comma was probably the best dialogue exchange in the episode.

Will running for office? That's just crazy enough to work!

The West Wing 7x21: "Institutional Memory" - ****

[Stewie]

I feel like this is a Real-Time Strategy game. And it's reached that point where the war is over. The winners have won. All that's left is to sweep the map and destroy the few remaining ineffectual units before the computer finally declares a winner.
The series is over. It has no more battles to fight. All that's left is to wrap up as many characters as they have time for. And throw in some continuity with that flash-forward we saw earlier.

Normally, this part of the game is a bore. (Why can't the game be set up so that victory isn't determined by one side's complete and total elimination, but by the destruction of their ability/will to fight, like real wars?) But after the really good matches, this part can be fun. You get a chance to use all the special weapons that you built but never fired because you were too busy winning. You get around to doing all the things you never had time for before. It doesn't mean anything. It's just a victory lap.

I'm gonna take these last few episodes as a victory lap for The West Wing. I don't necessarily think they're intended that way, but viewing them as such makes it easier to not care about the flaws (they've compressed how many years of Danny and CJ's relationship into one episode, and CJ herself is developing by leaps and bounds all of a sudden) and just enjoy what the series has been.
Good game.

[The Penguin]

This episode gave us a lot of closure and I liked that. I really liked that. This series didn’t completely end at least completely on its own accord (at one point, John Wells was banking on another one because of all the business he does with NBC) and we are fortunate that NBC respected one of its most respected shows enough to cancel it/not renew the contract early and let it finish.

After the seven years (more or less) of flirting and confused feelings, it’s great to see C.J. and Danny finally getting together. Bravo has been showing the early ones the past several weeks so it’s fun seeing them in those initial stages.

You can’t really refuse an offer from the President of the United States, but I’m glad to see C.J. acknowledge that she just can’t do it anymore and won’t be working for Matt Santos. She and Danny deserve their chance and now they will have it.

When we saw Congressman Bailey in the epilogue of the season premiere I assumed he would have been elected from California so the idea that he’s probably establishing residency and winning in Oregon is weird to me. I’ve never been a fan of people getting elected that way. I like Will and Kate so I wanted to see them figure things out.

C.J. visiting Toby was a nice moment. He’s obviously been cut off since he was thrown out of the White House for doing what he did. He deserves better than prison and I hope his former boss gives that to him.


Oh and I started "The West Wing" on DVD Talkback (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=166177) on Tuesday in conjunction with the release of season six on DVD, go check it out. :)

[The Penguin]

R.I.P. John Spencer (http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?t=156747)

Tonight, NBC says good-bye to The West Wing in style, the first episode at 7 p.m. ET and the final episode at 8 p.m. ET. This is a very surreal night.


http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f241/Bordo316/Cast.jpgPILOT
7pm 2006-05-14
(original airdate: 9/8pm 9/22/99)
WHITE HOUSE STAFF HOLDS DOWN FORT UNTIL INJURED PRESIDENT (MARTIN SHEEN) RETURNS IN PREMIERE OF 'THE WEST WING' -- The entire White House staff bristles with activity when it's learned that the President (Martin Sheen) injured himself during a bicycle accident, and his absence becomes a factor as chief of staff Leo McGarry (John Spencer) must juggle a host of impending crises, including a mass boatlift of Cuban refugees approaching the Florida coast and the reaction of conservative Christians to a controversial televised comment by deputy chief of staff Josh Lyman (Bradley Whitford). Meanwhile, Sam Seaborn (Rob Lowe), the trouble-prone deputy communications director, unknowingly spends the night with a call girl (guest star Lisa Edelstein) and then makes another critical error during a children's White House tour. The series is from Emmy Award-nominated Aaron Sorkin ("Sports Night," "A Few Good Men") and Emmy winners Tommy Schlamme ("Sports Night") and John Wells (NBC's "ER). Moira Kelly, Allison Janney and Richard Schiff also star.


"Make me proud, Mr. President."


http://www.nbc.com/photos/Primetime/The_West_Wing/2WESftN05.jpgTOMORROW - SERIES FINALE
8pm 2006-05-14 ALL NEW!

SERIES FINALE OF EMMY AWARD-WINNING 'THE WEST WING'; ROB LOWE MAKES A CAMEO - After seven seasons of the Award-winning drama series, the Bartlet Administration prepares to leave the White House and The West Wing. While Santos and his winning camp are nervously gearing up for the presidential inauguration, current President Bartlet (Martin Sheen), CJ (Allison Janney) and the others fondly look back as they prepare to leave the White House forever. Guest star Rob Lowe guest-stars as Sam Seaborn. Alan Alda, Joshua Malina, Mary McCormack, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, Bradley Whitford, Kristen Chenoweth, Jimmy Smits and Teri Polo also star.

Comments?

Bravo offers you a replay tomorrow at 8 p.m. ET.

[Temple Fugate]

"He's not my friend, he's my boss, and it's not his name, it's his title."
"'Potus?'"
"President of the United States."

The best introduction to the best show in the history of television. By the time Leo finishes his inital sweep of the massive White House set, you can already feel the magic and inspiration of working--nay, living--each and every day in the most powerful building on Earth. The first episode set a standard that was easily matched by the next few seasons with capable photography, witty/disarming/powerful dialogue and stellar acting. The characters are quirky, but they mean business when the chips are down and they certainly have noble convictions. Too noble, as we are quick to discover throughout the idealistic personal agendas each one pursues, but every time we watch Leo making a snark comment or see Sam and Josh set fire to the building, the characters stay realistic and close to our hearts.

The President's dramatic introduction to the series--the final group of scenes that closes the first of many amazing episodes--began when he quoted the Bible: "I am the Lord, your God. Thou shalt worship no other gods before Me." This was exactly the way to present the leader of the free world. President Bartlet was initially designed as the figurehead, appearing seldomly and dispensing an ounce of inspiration to his staff as they needed it. I miss that charming element of his character that hasn't been around much in the last half of the series, but in many ways he has not lost his air of nobility and humanity.

Since its premiere, many dramas have attempted to copy what made this show unique. You can rip off the walk-and-talks, you can rip off the loaded political discussions, but the most difficult--and important--element to take from this show is its perfect blend of characters with their smart humor, occasional "professionals behaving unprofessionally" attitude and strong moral center, all united by the dream of serving at the pleasure of the President.

This is The West Wing as I'll always remember it. Fresh, charming, inspirational. This is the legacy of dramatic television.

The West Wing 1x01: "Pilot" - *****

[Delthayre]

I've seen most of the pilot before, I just hadn't realized that it was the pilot. I enjoyed the breathlessness of the the first segment. That's very difficult to do succesfully, it's a tribute to Sorkin's writing that it worked. The President's slightly startling appearance at the end was perhaps slightly contrived, but I always liked The West Wing was often willing to embrace conventions and then execute thing so well that it might as well have been innovative.

It's a strange series in a way. It showed both how things are and how we wish they were. The portrayal of the internal operations and political functions of the White House was regularly interesting, but in a way disheartening because of all the inane, pointless, purely symoblic hoops that were often necessary. Yet it also gave us conversations and debates that were problably more honest and certainly cleverer than their real equivalents are.

The finale wasn't bad, but having the pilot air ahead of it spoiled me with the memory of Sorkin's marvelous way with dialogue. Wisely, and perhaps wryly, it didn't spend too much time on the tedious, empty, dull, overblown affair that the inauguration inevitably is. People are more interesting than ceremonies, especially since real eloquence has been dead and buried for years now. The final scene wasn't quite what I expected. Having the framed napkin with, "Bartlett for America," scrawled on it as the thing in the box was a nice touch, but in a way there was something incomplete or hollow about it and I can scarcely help but feel as if there ought to have been a somehow better ending.

Oh well, everything has its time, everything ends.

[Temple Fugate]

"What's next?"

Mourn not, they had a good run. Didn't stop me from tearing up though.

Everyone had a moment...except Toby, but his future factored into the episode regardless. I wonder if Bartlet saved the pardon to purposefully make it his very last act as President, or if he really couldn't decide until the end.

"Cooincidental" 24 references continue even into the series finale! I thought Xander Berkely would be the final connection between the shows, but Debbie used lines 2 and 4 to call the state governors. ::suspiciously eyes John Wells::

It was a very mellow episode, and perfect to slow the series to an end. There were all sorts of spots where you could tell the producers left a second or two for us to give last looks at people and rooms. (Bye, Ed and Larry.) Reminds me of when I move away from home to go to college every year, I like to survey the rooms one last time.

Watching Josh, Sam and everybody standing in the lobby, ready to take on another four or eight years, it actually felt like the show was going to continue. That's a great feeling, knowing there's stable continuity beyond the final shot of the series.

One of the many awesome moments: After nine years of working in politics, Donna finally gets an office. A damn nice one, too.

The moment Leo's daughter handed it to CJ, I knew it had to be the napkin. I've missed that thing since Leo moved out.

Abby's "You made it. You're still here." was disarming. It wasn't until then that I stopped to remember there were a lot of things that went bad in Bartlet's presidency, from the MS coverup to Zoey's kidnapping to his relapse in China.

The only sour part of this entire episode was the end. Firstly, I hate it when women ask "What are you thinking about?" And the former President's response, "Tomorow," was just...I don't know. It just lacked a punch. As President, he always seemed concerned about tomorrow. Personally, I think "Nothing. Nothing at all." would have been more profound. Anything other than something he had already spent eight years thinking about would be better than "tomorrow." That's just my opinion, though. :shrug:

The West Wing 7x22: "Tomorrow" - ****1/2
The West Wing season 7 - ***1/2
The West Wing - ****1/2

Happy retirement, Mr. President.