The West Wing Weekly 2.06: The Lame Duck Congress (with Dave Chameides)
Oct 26, 2016
Dave Chameides, steadicam operator, joins the hosts to discuss the complex choreography of shooting a walk and talk. They also talk about Sorkinisms supercut videos. The episode analyzes the chess-like maneuvering and strategic decisions in 'The Lame Duck Congress'. They critique Charlie's comment, explore the use of music cues, discuss romantic relationships, and highlight the challenges of filming 'The West Wing'. Plus, they promote their socials, podcast, and a new show.
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Episode notes
Chess As A Political Motif
- The episode uses chess as a recurring metaphor to show political maneuvering and foresight.
- That motif ties disparate scenes together and highlights strategic thinking in politics.
Boris Yeltsin Inspired The Drunk Reformer
- The drunken Ukrainian reformer plot is inspired by Boris Yeltsin's real White House episodes.
- Marlin Fitzwater contributed that real-life anecdote and got a consulting credit.
Fresh Eyes Reveal Government Workings
- Aaron Sorkin often gives viewers 'fresh eyes' characters to explain government processes.
- The Ainsley point-of-view shot and the Oval lights-out chess scene bookend that thematic device.