Television Criticism
Thursday, October 16, 2003
"The West Wing"
What was once a great television show about Washington politics and issues of social concern, has now become little more than a melodrama about a family that just happens to live in the White House. The fall of "The West Wing" began with the loss of Aaron Sorkin. No, he's not dead, but has suffered a fate some writers would consider worse than death. Last May, Sorkin was asked to leave the very show he created. Citing numerous production delays, NBC requested a change in the hierarchy of the show. Sorkin, along with fellow producer Thomas Schlame, agreed to leave the show following the conclusion of its fourth season. The absence of both Sorkin and Schlame leaves "The West Wing" with only one producer, John Wells.
For those unfamiliar with John Wells, just think "ER." You know, the overly melodramatic show that once starred George Clooney. John Wells wrote and produced the first two episodes of this seasons "West Wing." Prior to this, Aaron Sorkin was a credited writer on every episode of the series but one. The difference, ladies and gentlemen, is immediately apparent. While Wells leaves in just enough walking and talking to keep loyal fans of the show happy, he has also added his own flare for melodrama.
Witty dialogue, paired with political jargon, is what made "West Wing" a great show. While the dialogue appears to remain political, its meaning has certainly changed. By that, I mean there is no longer any significant meaning to the show. Sorkin used political dialogue to comment on social issues and U.S. Foreign Policy. Wells uses dialogue to put the shows main characters in political jeopardy. The two may appear to be the same thing, but they are radically different. Social commentary made "The West Wing" a great show, at best, melodrama would make it a good show.
Nathan C. Long
For more detailed analysis of this seasons first three episodes, I suggest reading Tim Goodman. Goodman is a television critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, and his articles can be found with a search at:
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