"The West Wing" was a political drama that aired on NBC from 1999 to 2006, that told the story of Martin Sheen as President Jed Bartlet and his close-knit group of White House staffers, including Rob Lowe as Sam Seaborn, Deputy White House Communications Director. With no less than 26 Emmy Wins and 95 nominations, it's no wonder this show has been said to be single-handedly responsible for a generation of idealist young people moving to D.C., with the hope of breaking into politics and changing the world.
1. The plotlines aren't outlandish.
In fact, the show is known for encompassing current events into its episodes. This show deals with terrorism, homophobia, the complexities of war and religion. Instead of being obvious in its attempt to gain viewers (violence, sex, corruption, etc) this show used heartfelt, well-developed and above all, relatable characters to attract its audience.
2. President Bartlet is the kind of president that Americans want to believe in.
He didn't have an affair and he isn't a murderer. He is a good man with a deep love for America and an even deeper love for doing the right thing. He's the kind of president you think of when you hear the word "president," the kind you thought of when you were a little kid, and you hadn't yet been jaded by real-world politicians and their Twitter sex scandals.
3. The show's writers understood that "strong female character" doesn't have to mean a woman that lies to get what she wants or so that she can keep a man.
It can be the White House Press Secretary, C.J. Cregg, who uses her brain and prowess to succeed at one of the most stressful jobs a person could have--and still be funny. She didn't let anyone tell her what to do, not even the president. Also, she doesn't murder anyone.
4. Chief of Staff, Leo McGarry, is the grandfather figure we all want to have.
He's the slightly grumpy confidant of the president, and the advice giver to the younger staffers the audience sees itself in. He's kind without being a pushover, a badass without deceptive scheming.
5. It doesn't dumb things down for its audience.
It's fast paced and smart while being funny and heartfelt. The international, domestic and personal problems the show presents are topical and realistic. You will root for its characters, just like you will root for America.
These days, it can be difficult to find good in the world. With so much corruption and injustice, it seems hard to believe there are people in positions of power who don't have motives that stem from lining their pockets.
"The West Wing" is filled with Paulo Coelho-like pieces of wisdom. It emphasizes friendship, honesty, working hard and doing the right thing. It inspires faith in people and will (re)-inspire your faith in America's political process.
"The West Wing" is streaming now on Netflix.
