And It's Surely to Their Credit

"The West Wing" took a gamble hiring new cast regular Emily Procter, and it pays off handsomely in this episode. Written by Sorkin, the segment deftly combines comedy and dramatic impact to emphasize a key point missing nowadays from government, namely the willingness to serve a higher cause beyond partisanship, with Emily as new hire in John Larroquette's White House office of legal counsel fitting in awkwardly at first (she's a Republican) but destined to contribute to the president's success in office.

Larroquette and Stockard Channing as the First Lady contribute mightily to the comedic content, which is more prevalent here than usual, and both Channing and Allison Janney as CJ are powerful in delivering a feminist message (along with Procter, in a delightful performance) that permeates the show. Some important political issues are covered tangentially, but it is the spirit of public service that shines throughout.

This episode from Season 2 of The West Wing was, in my opinion, one of the best in the entire series. It had drama and humor, and was intelligently directed and written. I wish the character of Lionel Tribbey (John Larroquette) came back for just one more episode in the same season, but this was memorable enough.

This episode was such a memorable one in the entire series.

I realise I'm somewhat late to the West Wing party. But goodness how I'm enjoying it. And this latest episode, S2 Ep5 is genius; writing, acting, pacing, the full shiboodle.