Well, I've just finished watching the West Wing start to finish. I got the complete series on DVD for Christmas, and it's taken me this long to finish it. It was quite a project, and I'm sad it's over (although I still have commentaries and special features...) By way of concluding this 2 and a half month journey, I thought I would pick my favorite moment from each season and present it here in typical YouTube copyright infringing fashion.

Here We Go:



Season One




Toby arranges for a military funeral for a homeless Korean War Vet. The juxtaposition between the choir and the Marine Honor Guard is one of the best moments from the first season, and the entire show. The pageantry and precision of the Marines is breathtaking.


Season Two




One of the best psychiatrist/patient interaction scenes I've seen. Also features one of my favorite songs, played by Yo Yo Ma. This entire episode is excellent, but this scene stands out for it's building of tension, and the back and forth between doctor and patient.


Season Three




The President and the White House Chief of Staff discuss whether or not to assassinate a Middle East Foreign Minister. This demonstrates the show's willingness to take on complex issues that a lesser show would have stayed away from.


Season Four




It's not all dead veterans and political assassination; the West Wing can do funny. Here's the proof.


Season Five




Who knew budget negotiations could be so riveting? (Also, please disregard the top chef commercial at the end of the clip...)


Season Six




The culmination of every argument Bartlet and Leo have had. Knowing that actor John Spencer died of a heart attack just 2 years later makes this a hard scene to watch.


Season Seven





A new administration has been elected and inaugurated. Bartlet's work is done. The show is over. Now I have to find something else to do....