Paul to be fair, I think the president is too far removed from the “neighborhood” drug game. A president would have to attack the real source and it’s just sooo many cartels and sources these days. In theory I agree with you tho, he had the power and awareness to at least try ya know.
Trump: "I thought was great, the show got great ratings. Not like the Apprentice but I know it was a great show. What you have here are criminals, street thugs. We love watching criminals don't we folks? We like to think we would have behaved much better. These are people who behaved very badly and a lot of them got what was coming. A lot of them escaped but most of them got what was comin to em."
He showed how smart he was by advocating organized "jury nullification of law" in victimless crime cases, as a way of citizens reasserting control over government. He further showed how smart he was to advocate "Surviving Voir Dire" (as depicted in the essay of the same title by Clay Conrad). Simon is a _sophisticated_ thinker as aware of reality as de Tocqueville and Hayek.
I agree! Most underrated supporting role in TV history. Like if Tony Soprano didn’t have to carry a show. I thought his acting was that good. There. I said it.
Yeah, Stringer Bell intrigued me. Slim Charles had some nice little bits (see, thing about the old days is,......they the old days) and Brother Mouzone........I wondered if he was based on a real person, anyone know ?
@@fredo2x625 ye when he crashes marlos poker game. As far as Obama and his average of 3 killed civilians per drone strike go, I'd say Politicians ain't got no souls, only manipulative words.
SAF 93 100% Obama filled in a lot of ways, he tried and faced a pretty obstanate Congress and revisist racist Republican party offended by a black man being president, but he failed in a lot of ways
President can't change that much in his two terms. All those policies were in place before he came to the office. The system is also flawed when it comes to campaign finance. However he did try to do some pretty great things and he served the office with utmost dignity. Could he have been better? Sure. He was still miles better than what he have now though.
Obama was not elected dictator. I don't know what sweeping changes he was expected to personally implement on an immediate basis. But the original comment holds: hearing a leader discuss these kind of issues in a serious, thoughtful, and nuanced way is something that we don't have now.
The Wire was scary. Really scary because it mirrored reality for a lot of us. Sometimes it was like you were just looking out the window. We knew Avons, Chrises, Snoops, Brodie’s, poohs, stringer, Omars etc or people really similar to them. I’m not afraid of Michael Meyers or Freddie Krueger. I’m afraid of Snoop, Chris and Avon’s sister. People like that exist for real.
@@CJ-jj1kb Its a bit late, but Avon's sister (D'Angelo's mom) basically lead to D's death. First made him follow the family business as a soldier, then forced him back even when he wanted to get out of the game, then finally to not take the police deal, which got him jail, then got killed. Such mom's and parents exist in real world, and there's nothing you can do when you have such mother. Kinda like how much effort had to be taken to get Namond off from streets. It really takes work from many people to fix a long problem.
How must David Simon be feeling after living enough decades to know all the information that went into writing The Wire, the uselessness of the authorities and the seemingly unstoppable drug trade and as well as all the deprivation in American cities, and then putting it all together into a TV series that didn’t take off while it was being aired- and then finding out that it had a cult following and the critics kept loving it and then the man at the top of the world- Obama- has studiously watched it all! He must be so excited to know that his life made a difference. And it really has, it has really explained things to those at the top, it shows them in a succinct and informative way what is wrong and then perhaps we can start to help the situation.
To fix city police departments, ambition HAS to be removed from the equation. Lester, McNulty, Bunk, Kima, Sydnor, even Carver and Landsman were not ambitious people. They didn't want to be promoted up the chain of command and have a bigger house and a better car. They legit genuinely loved what they did---detective work on the streets. For people like Burrell, Rawls, Valchek, even Daniels to an extent.......its all about up-the-chain-of-command ambition, not the actual job. We need less ambitious people in PDs, and more people who genuinely love the job, and are not looking to constantly rise. Public service is not a career for ambitious people. You want that, go into the private sector or something.
And then Obama proceeded to change very little. Not putting everything on him (even though drone strikes did go up during his time, I will put THAT on him), but it just shows you that the system isn’t designed to change as long as the rich benefits. What I make of it is that it is the working class’s job to uproot the system by our own hand.
Yeah you see when Simon is talking, Obama is intensely focused, actually taking in what he's saying instead of just waiting to talk. And this is from the head of the Federal Government, so he's not uninformed on the subject himself,,yknow? Just shows how humble and practical he is.
Yea, the man who bombed Libya into stone age...the man who has most civilian deaths by drone strikes by any US president.. sick how people idolize maniacs like these...
0:33 That look on Obama's face as he waits for David to speak. He really wants to know what you have to say; he really wants to listen. Thoughtful, smart, considerate, patient. Qualities sorely lacking from our current leader. You'll be missed, sir.
@DEUS TAS Well if Obama was just a "trained politician" then I'll take that any day of the week over the non-politician "business" man that screwed up the country so bad. Obama may not have been the star-spangled great president everyone thought he would be, but he was one HELL of a lot better than that trainwreck trump.
are you kidding, trump could have the best conversation like this, no kidding, if you came to him and wanted a conversation like this, he could deliver, it'd be uuuge. the best, I'm tellin ya. and David Simon wud pay for it.
So many great characters in the show, hard to pick just one. Stringer Bell, Webay, Slim Charles, brother moozone and the kid who jacked cars are some of my personal favorite characters.
Brilliant talk. The Wire absolutely is one of the most significant art pieces in modern times. What bothers me most is how few people buy into the complexities around these sorts of social problems. Whether it's drugs and crime, education, health, employment or anything else related to standard of living -- there are no simple solutions, or single factor to blame.
I was never a fan of most of his policies, but I do like his approach of talking to his peers to learn more about problems/solutions. He is an interesting and intelligent person for sure.
Two smart, wise and insightful people having a fascinating conversation about an incredible and hitherto unsurpassed piece of American culture and the underlying circumstances that inspired it. It was a pleasure to listen to.
@Evan Shlom Its like night and day in comparison, especially considering one is a insecure man child. Imagine trumps intellectual insights into the wire.
Obamas heart was in the right place when he became the president, but then the zionists got their hold on him. I mean obama said he would stop the war, but israel and the zionists who run america just didnt let him do that. War is such a good business to the 1%
Imagine Trump having this convo... "So drugs are bad, right? Really bad... been bad before, bad now. Police are doing a tremendous job here. Arresting, doing their job. It works! Works so perfectly. Vote for me".
I just miss this man representing us so much. Honestly, even if Trump kept his political views but behaved more like Obama I believe people would be less harsh on him, but the fact is he behaves like a fool. Just a damn fool. Brilliant interview
Josh Van Natta You’re 100% right. When it comes to being a leader in politics, views/perspective is important, but the way you conduct yourself, and the way you convey your message determines how serious people take you. Obama carried himself with such a high level of professionalism and grace, even if you didn’t believe in his message you had to respect him. Trump on the other hand....well....I don’t want to really waste my time reflecting on him 😅
That's the problem. Trump's politics are quite similar to Obama's. The packaging and branding may be radically different. But, when you unwrap them, it's the same. Central banking, warmongering, immigrant detaining and deporting, gun grabbing, victimless crime prosecuting, asset seizing socialism. Very little difference on the most significant issues facing us.
Trump: "Ya know, I like the Desperate Housewives of New York, I think its funny, ya know I used to own a couple condominiums in the same building that, you know, that these women, just beautiful women, a little old for me, ok? But beautiful woman...Smart...Sexy...Ya know its fun, ok? I mean, like extremely fun, ya know..."
sfar1 thanks for making the time to take him to school. You might have just made the world a bit better.. that's of course if he will have the muxi to actually read and understand. Thanks man
@sfar1 I know it has been a year since you posted your comment but it was truly a nice read. I appreciate the time you took in order to show others that while yes, your opinions may differ, in the end we are essentially one. I am tired of the 2 party system, blue team versus red team and the smug acts of belittling the opposing team of ideals and understanding. Both sides are infact right and wrong on many things, if you can not own up to the fact that you may be in the incorrect you should not be telling others they are not correct. I try my best to understand others view point without imposing my own thoughts onto anyone and just try to express a possible idea but with no certainty it may be correct or the best choice, even though through my eyes it might be so. I am also glad you studied law in which it might benefit those around you because it sounds like you deserve good people in your circles that you can help out if they are ever in a bind.
What would Trump say if such an interview were arranged: *Simon:* So, here we are. *Trump:* Yes. I watched your show. Well, the first episode. Not many people realize that this is a complicated show. But, if anyone knows how complicated it is, it's me; believe me. Believe me. *Simon:* Right. Right. Just the first episode, though? *Trump:* Yeah, I understood what I needed to. It was alright. You should have made the show about me. It would have been tremendous. You could write a show about me, right? *Simon:* Uh, I- *Trump:* First episode: Trump has big hands. Too big. Tremendously big hands. I defeat drug crime with my bare hands. *Simon:* Wh- *Trump:* Next episode: I drive a truck full of illegals back across the border. I like driving trucks. And, have the sirents on it. *Simon:* "Sirents"? Do you mean sirens? *Trump:* Next episode: The wall gets built. A big beautiful wall. Believe me, the crowds will love it. Top ratings, okay? *Simon:* I uh, need to go... I have a thing...
Smaakjeks K you couldn’t even bring up the point of the NY opioid rise or something related to the wire. This is just bad mouthing and not even funny, or not even topically witty.
1:44 he made Cedric Daniels say those same lines to Burrell and Rawls in season 4. That is what made Carcetti look at Daniels as 'his' man in the police force.
Rewatching this 5 years later I can’t imagine Trump actually sitting down with David Simon and being able have a intellectual conversation with sad times we’re living in
How amazing to see two intelligent men dissect real social issues. How far have we fallen in 2017 with a comedy president , with tweets and sound bites.
@@bobsacamento7879 He didn't grab any females by their private parts. He didn't denounce pride from ex military. He is not a racist. He is better than trump
I bet you were equally charmed by Tommy Carcetti. I bet that character went completely over your head. The narcissistic, predatory career politician who's all talk. Motivated only by winning debates and charming gullible, average IQ individuals such as yourself, and not so much caring about actual change. Ask yourself: WTF did Obama do about the war on drugs?
Search "Trump Citizen Kane" and he talks in depth about one of the worlds greatest pieces of art and THE greatest in cinema. I detest the guy, but its surprising.
The world misses him. He had his faults sure, but now you have a petty, immature, corrupt man child for president who spends his time insulting people on twitter. If you can honestly look at these two men and prefer Trump, then there is no hope for you.
kilikiss trump is the better president. You are blatantly complaining about his behavior but not looking at his policies. Trump has done more than most of the modern day presidents. It’s a shame that you are indoctrinated by the news. Keep sipping on that kool aid
I tried watching "The Wire," but the 1st couple of episodes seemed pretty dark, brutal. I may give it a second try. Regardless of the merits of the show however, this interview reminded how much I miss Barack Obama's calming presence. He operates at such a high level of complex thinking and compassion, and is so articulate. The current president seems so terrible in comparison.
Would strongly recommend you give it another try dude. It isn’t an especially uplifting show, but you’ll definitely get a lot out of it, and feel smarter once you’ve watched your way through it
Highly recommend it, I watched during dirt lock down last year, I got so excited for each new episode. I loved the Sopranos but I think this is probably better.
@Khaled Rapp Keep in mind that he's actually well-educated. It feels insane to me that someone with such a good education and privileges talks and behaves like he does
Considering how poorly much of the policy commentary in The Wire has aged ("Hey guys, an open air drug market would totally solve everything!" [2023 Vancouver has entered the chat]) Obama's endorsement of The Wire has gone from being hip to an immortal indictment of his statist naiveté.
If you watched the wire and thought the message was "Hey, legalizing drugs in hamsterdam is totally good!" You've completely lost the plot. They couldn't have been clearer about the consequences and tradeoffs of it without spelling it out in crayon for you.
Hello ignorant checkmark. If you dont understand the Hamsterdam plotline, you should watch shows like One Piece or Dragon Ball, much simpler stories for simple minded people.
One thing about The Wire was they covered all aspects of Baltimore in each season. That’s what made this show successful and unique. All other crime shows had the same theme, season after season. That why The Wire was one of many people’s favorite show.
lol right? people are so impressed by the bare minimum lipservice to their fav teevee program. sure would like some actual cost controls on healthcare tho....would have been real nice....oh well im sure the 45k people who die preventatively every year will wait another decade for the next bluedog dem in disguise
Wow, this was refreshing. I just feel smarter having watched this. I had to look up a few words and my mind worked out for a while. A non-ironic "Thanks, Obama" from me!
I doubt that David Simon seriously considered anyone but MKW for the role of Omar Little. The words he wrote became poetry when MKW and the rest of the cast spoke them.
Heartbreaking loss. Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Chadwick & MKW. This level of talent & soul is very rare in one lifetime. So sad. They were here for a reason but all gone too soon.
I just ran across the wire a few months ago! It's a totally amazing of work! The gang and drug trade part seem completely real some of the best act if all time
So, obviously, the most prominent fan of The Wire then made prosecutorial reform for non-violent offenders a priority, and supported States that were moving towards harm reduction through legalization of less destructive controlled substances, with an eye towards de-escalating the level of violence in the War on Drugs. In another universe, that is. Certainly not in ours.
The fact that this only has 550k views is deeply disturbing to me ..... this exact conversation has never been more relevant as America gets closer to the 2020 election. Watching THE WIRE and having Town-Hall style discussions about it (including Mayors & District Attorneys) should be a MANDATORY part of any American election cycle for the next 16-24 years ..... Thank you for this upload. Thank GOD for David Simon.
There is a kind of sickness in the fact that Obama watched and loved the wire, but at the highest orifices of power in the USA still became a milquetoast politician that couldn't do right for these broken communities.
I keep trying to wonder what kind of conversation this would be with 45. It's such a world of difference.I actually believe that we have been lost. I don't think we will ever be the same.
You know I respect Barack Obama, but I never agreed with him 100% but you know what it took character to sit down and have this type of discussion. His leadership here is something this country greatly needs and sorely misses. Too bad there are so many people in this country who miss the boat, in terms of what he said.
Surely Obama was in prime position to begin to change the status quo & cycle of decline, rather than look on as a fan of the show? It makes you wonder who really holds the strings of power, intelligent leader or no.
Good on president Obama to acknowledge this. Can you imagine TRUMP having this conversation or even the ability to truly understand the issues? Big up Obama and the amazing the wire!! 'Got to- its America man'!!
I spent a week in jail b/c of a probation violation and at least half of the people were in on short time drug charges- 2 months here, 4 months there, etc.
I just started watching the Wire. After one episode I'm not really hooked yet. I've heard it takes about 3 to 4 episodes to really get into it. Can anyone confirm?
It's one of the greatest shows ever made. It's very raw and portrays a sad yet honest depiction of the many scales of life from the drug pushers on corners to the senators. Highly recommended.
imagine making a show so good that the president becomes a fanboy...not only because The Wire is so entertaining but because its profound and an incredibly accurate depiction of american society
I dated a girl who was taking social work in university, suggested The Wire to her not sure if she'd see the forest for the trees. She fell in love with it, became obsessive about it.
I kept waiting for Obama to say "The Game is the Game"
Yo I said the same thing
You can't lose if you don't play!
That is for low level operators who were never near the tools to change the rules, Obama was so why would be settle for fatalism?
Lmao...dude u wild
Always
What a great quote "What drugs don't destroy, the war against them is ripping apart"
SnakeEater866 facts
@@FireAngelChris Why didn't he ever say this when it mattered? He was president for 8 years did he ever try and stop it?
Paul to be fair, I think the president is too far removed from the “neighborhood” drug game. A president would have to attack the real source and it’s just sooo many cartels and sources these days. In theory I agree with you tho, he had the power and awareness to at least try ya know.
@@Paul-ew5st The quotes from David Simon, not Obama
Sopranos and the wire Are tied For Best show of all time , breaking bad comes in behind those 2
"I think it’s one of the greatest, not just television shows, but pieces of art, in the last couple of decades." - President Obama
We watched the video
hi when did ye conduct this interview? Great interview btw :)
Trump: "I thought was great, the show got great ratings. Not like the Apprentice but I know it was a great show. What you have here are criminals, street thugs. We love watching criminals don't we folks? We like to think we would have behaved much better. These are people who behaved very badly and a lot of them got what was coming. A lot of them escaped but most of them got what was comin to em."
goodolarchie lol
Pretty good
Totally agree!
I love how informed David Simon is on these things. Brings so much more authenticity to his ideas.
He was a investigative journalist in Baltimore for 2 decades I believe.
It’s not accident that he created the most brilliant television show ever.
He won the MacArthur Grant for a reason.
He is a certified genius
He showed how smart he was by advocating organized "jury nullification of law" in victimless crime cases, as a way of citizens reasserting control over government. He further showed how smart he was to advocate "Surviving Voir Dire" (as depicted in the essay of the same title by Clay Conrad). Simon is a _sophisticated_ thinker as aware of reality as de Tocqueville and Hayek.
@@omieg89 Yeah, I think this is telling enough of how impossibly informed someone like David Simon is on this case.
Omar’s my favorite but I loved the tragedy of Frank Sobotka
Lmao what
Yeah. Season 2 was my favourite season.
Ziggy should never have taken the package
I agree! Most underrated supporting role in TV history. Like if Tony Soprano didn’t have to carry a show. I thought his acting was that good. There. I said it.
@@euanscotland Ziggy was the worst character of the whole show
"Omar is my favorite character". Well of course he is, Omar is everyone's favorite character. (And Bubbles)
I watced for Stringer, best and charismatic part of the show
gotta give it to Slim Charles
Yeah, Stringer Bell intrigued me. Slim Charles had some nice little bits (see, thing about the old days is,......they the old days) and Brother Mouzone........I wondered if he was based on a real person, anyone know ?
Bubblez sucks, Omar and Lester for me.
Bodie and Weebay all day.
“Money ain’t got no owners, Only spenders”- Omar Little
Omar said that?
@@fredo2x625 ye when he crashes marlos poker game. As far as Obama and his average of 3 killed civilians per drone strike go, I'd say
Politicians ain't got no souls, only manipulative words.
R.I.E.P
Wow. We used to have a well educated, intelligent guy for president. Weird.
peaks and valleys my friend. lol
SAF 93 100% Obama filled in a lot of ways, he tried and faced a pretty obstanate Congress and revisist racist Republican party offended by a black man being president, but he failed in a lot of ways
President can't change that much in his two terms. All those policies were in place before he came to the office. The system is also flawed when it comes to campaign finance. However he did try to do some pretty great things and he served the office with utmost dignity. Could he have been better? Sure. He was still miles better than what he have now though.
Obama was not elected dictator. I don't know what sweeping changes he was expected to personally implement on an immediate basis. But the original comment holds: hearing a leader discuss these kind of issues in a serious, thoughtful, and nuanced way is something that we don't have now.
not one of those things is true.
The Wire was scary. Really scary because it mirrored reality for a lot of us. Sometimes it was like you were just looking out the window. We knew Avons, Chrises, Snoops, Brodie’s, poohs, stringer, Omars etc or people really similar to them. I’m not afraid of Michael Meyers or Freddie Krueger. I’m afraid of Snoop, Chris and Avon’s sister. People like that exist for real.
Y u afraid of Avon’s sister
@@CJ-jj1kb Its a bit late, but Avon's sister (D'Angelo's mom) basically lead to D's death. First made him follow the family business as a soldier, then forced him back even when he wanted to get out of the game, then finally to not take the police deal, which got him jail, then got killed.
Such mom's and parents exist in real world, and there's nothing you can do when you have such mother. Kinda like how much effort had to be taken to get Namond off from streets. It really takes work from many people to fix a long problem.
Best comment I’ve ever read on RUclips in my life
Namonds Mom was worse than Avons sister
Well said! I could say more but this is my real name. Best regards.
Dennis Cutty's story really was one in a million
Agree!!! Dennis Wise aka Cutty was a great character.
How must David Simon be feeling after living enough decades to know all the information that went into writing The Wire, the uselessness of the authorities and the seemingly unstoppable drug trade and as well as all the deprivation in American cities, and then putting it all together into a TV series that didn’t take off while it was being aired- and then finding out that it had a cult following and the critics kept loving it and then the man at the top of the world- Obama- has studiously watched it all! He must be so excited to know that his life made a difference. And it really has, it has really explained things to those at the top, it shows them in a succinct and informative way what is wrong and then perhaps we can start to help the situation.
Even as well wishing Obama may have been he wasn't enough to change the institution of corrupt police bureaucracy and the war on drugs.
To fix city police departments, ambition HAS to be removed from the equation. Lester, McNulty, Bunk, Kima, Sydnor, even Carver and Landsman were not ambitious people. They didn't want to be promoted up the chain of command and have a bigger house and a better car. They legit genuinely loved what they did---detective work on the streets. For people like Burrell, Rawls, Valchek, even Daniels to an extent.......its all about up-the-chain-of-command ambition, not the actual job. We need less ambitious people in PDs, and more people who genuinely love the job, and are not looking to constantly rise. Public service is not a career for ambitious people. You want that, go into the private sector or something.
Probably how Gus Haynes felt when Scott Templeton won that Pulitzer
And then Obama proceeded to change very little. Not putting everything on him (even though drone strikes did go up during his time, I will put THAT on him), but it just shows you that the system isn’t designed to change as long as the rich benefits.
What I make of it is that it is the working class’s job to uproot the system by our own hand.
@@SelectiveApathy82Natural police.
He is a great listener Obama, the mark of a wise person.
Yeah you see when Simon is talking, Obama is intensely focused, actually taking in what he's saying instead of just waiting to talk. And this is from the head of the Federal Government, so he's not uninformed on the subject himself,,yknow? Just shows how humble and practical he is.
@@IloveGorgeousGeorge I didn't think that much of Obama... until trump got in.
Yea, the man who bombed Libya into stone age...the man who has most civilian deaths by drone strikes by any US president.. sick how people idolize maniacs like these...
Man now we got Trump in office Sheeeeeeeeeeeeeit
lol Trump is basically Clay Davis only with sheeiter catchphrases
And USA is stuck with that guy for at least 2 more years Shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiet
WATU 😆😆😆😆😆
"All in the game, yo..all in the game"
eeeeeeeeeeeeeee - still Goin in 2019.
0:33 That look on Obama's face as he waits for David to speak. He really wants to know what you have to say; he really wants to listen. Thoughtful, smart, considerate, patient. Qualities sorely lacking from our current leader. You'll be missed, sir.
ЯunΣ Wreck'Em exactly what I was thinking
@DEUS TAS Well if Obama was just a "trained politician" then I'll take that any day of the week over the non-politician "business" man that screwed up the country so bad.
Obama may not have been the star-spangled great president everyone thought he would be, but he was one HELL of a lot better than that trainwreck trump.
Well, he sort of cut over David simon at the end of the video if u watch it... but yeah he is way better than Trump.
"He's natural police. Yes, he was." God, I love The Wire.
"po-leece" ;)
Idris elba(Stringer bell) played the hell out of his role. Wished they had him on the show longer
Tell told his story which is exactly what you want. Wanting more hit satisfied
He had to get got
J Facts nah. currently on season four. that stringer story ran its course.
Nah, it was his time to go.
He was good but not the best. His accent was weird.
Can anyone imagine Trump having a conversation like this?
That is exactly the question that came into my head. I actually started laughing at the idea.
Solid Snake I can tell you that much, believe me believe me
Solid Snake lmaoooo it wouldn't go good
Nope
are you kidding, trump could have the best conversation like this, no kidding, if you came to him and wanted a conversation like this, he could deliver, it'd be uuuge. the best, I'm tellin ya. and David Simon wud pay for it.
The wire is one of the most accurately portrayed shows about Baltimore💯
#Truth
“Yo.. Omar comin...”. ( whistling 😗) lol
This is one of the most intelligent conversations i have ever heard. The Wire is a treasure.
The wire is a national treasure!
Everyone loves Omar, and although I do too, I feel like a bit of an outlier when I say that Proposition Joe is one of my favourites
Prop Joe is really cool. Robert Chew's acting is very subtle and laid-back.
I say my favourite character is either Bubbles or Prez.
So many great characters in the show, hard to pick just one. Stringer Bell, Webay, Slim Charles, brother moozone and the kid who jacked cars are some of my personal favorite characters.
I reckon Prop Joe had some of the best dialogue.
Brother Mouzone needed more episodes too imo
@@thatdude5757 all the characters in the show are trash
God this is downright incredible. A deeply meaningful conversation that I couldn't dream our current President is capable of having.
The Wire is probably the ONLY tv show that never jumped the shark. Most brilliant show in history.
Season 5 jumped the shark massively, the whole fake serial killer thing was stupid.
Brilliant talk. The Wire absolutely is one of the most significant art pieces in modern times. What bothers me most is how few people buy into the complexities around these sorts of social problems. Whether it's drugs and crime, education, health, employment or anything else related to standard of living -- there are no simple solutions, or single factor to blame.
I was never a fan of most of his policies, but I do like his approach of talking to his peers to learn more about problems/solutions. He is an interesting and intelligent person for sure.
Two smart, wise and insightful people having a fascinating conversation about an incredible and hitherto unsurpassed piece of American culture and the underlying circumstances that inspired it. It was a pleasure to listen to.
incredible interview, what a treat. Thanks for sharing this.
THE GREATEST TV SERIES EVER
Selma Definitely.
You spelled game of thrones wrong. But good show. Just finished it.
Here here
@@Jackietreehorn39 Jesus H Christ, what a poor thing you are
No Breaking Bad and Game of thrones are..
I miss having a president that could speak intelligently and critically about a topic...
Like his number 2 in office now right?
@@asaph2652 Go crawl back under the bridge you came from
@@erikrichard413 u mad
@Evan Shlom Its like night and day in comparison, especially considering one is a insecure man child. Imagine trumps intellectual insights into the wire.
Definitely
i miss having a smart, decent human being as president
Who?
James Parrish mike jones
James Parrish Don’t act stupid.
Obamas heart was in the right place when he became the president, but then the zionists got their hold on him. I mean obama said he would stop the war, but israel and the zionists who run america just didnt let him do that. War is such a good business to the 1%
I'm sure all those kids he droned feel the same way
Imagine Trump having this convo... "So drugs are bad, right? Really bad... been bad before, bad now. Police are doing a tremendous job here. Arresting, doing their job. It works! Works so perfectly. Vote for me".
lmao that's exactly how he talks.
😂😂😂
@Greta Heisensoy every backward idiot prefers that. You're not alone
Imagine Brandon 🤣
trump is smarter than weak obama and i don't like trump,he is a master persuader
Obama is humble it's greats to see a world leader like this.
think of Trump in the same sitdown :P
SigurdK “I only watch THE BEST SHOWS:
CSI and cops and dancing with the stars.”
-Trumpito
Afdfascccdq
+Furious Styles: This comment kinda says it all.
Tell that to all his drone victims
I just miss this man representing us so much. Honestly, even if Trump kept his political views but behaved more like Obama I believe people would be less harsh on him, but the fact is he behaves like a fool. Just a damn fool. Brilliant interview
Josh Van Natta You’re 100% right. When it comes to being a leader in politics, views/perspective is important, but the way you conduct yourself, and the way you convey your message determines how serious people take you. Obama carried himself with such a high level of professionalism and grace, even if you didn’t believe in his message you had to respect him. Trump on the other hand....well....I don’t want to really waste my time reflecting on him 😅
That's the problem. Trump's politics are quite similar to Obama's. The packaging and branding may be radically different. But, when you unwrap them, it's the same. Central banking, warmongering, immigrant detaining and deporting, gun grabbing, victimless crime prosecuting, asset seizing socialism. Very little difference on the most significant issues facing us.
I liked America much more when they had a grown-up for a president.
We did too, buddy.
Rob Hobson We all did. We have a president now that the world does not respect.
Please stop naming USA as America...as it was the whooole continent which America is...
North America, South America, Central America, and America. People know the difference.
bigbullbk sorry man, he's referring North America's USA as simply America. No man..
Trump: "Ya know, I like the Desperate Housewives of New York, I think its funny, ya know I used to own a couple condominiums in the same building that, you know, that these women, just beautiful women, a little old for me, ok? But beautiful woman...Smart...Sexy...Ya know its fun, ok? I mean, like extremely fun, ya know..."
sfar1 thanks for making the time to take him to school. You might have just made the world a bit better.. that's of course if he will have the muxi to actually read and understand. Thanks man
@sfar1 I know it has been a year since you posted your comment but it was truly a nice read. I appreciate the time you took in order to show others that while yes, your opinions may differ, in the end we are essentially one. I am tired of the 2 party system, blue team versus red team and the smug acts of belittling the opposing team of ideals and understanding. Both sides are infact right and wrong on many things, if you can not own up to the fact that you may be in the incorrect you should not be telling others they are not correct. I try my best to understand others view point without imposing my own thoughts onto anyone and just try to express a possible idea but with no certainty it may be correct or the best choice, even though through my eyes it might be so. I am also glad you studied law in which it might benefit those around you because it sounds like you deserve good people in your circles that you can help out if they are ever in a bind.
Holy hell too close....
🤣🤣🤣
hahahaha
What would Trump say if such an interview were arranged:
*Simon:* So, here we are.
*Trump:* Yes. I watched your show. Well, the first episode. Not many people realize that this is a complicated show. But, if anyone knows how complicated it is, it's me; believe me. Believe me.
*Simon:* Right. Right. Just the first episode, though?
*Trump:* Yeah, I understood what I needed to. It was alright. You should have made the show about me. It would have been tremendous. You could write a show about me, right?
*Simon:* Uh, I-
*Trump:* First episode: Trump has big hands. Too big. Tremendously big hands. I defeat drug crime with my bare hands.
*Simon:* Wh-
*Trump:* Next episode: I drive a truck full of illegals back across the border. I like driving trucks. And, have the sirents on it.
*Simon:* "Sirents"? Do you mean sirens?
*Trump:* Next episode: The wall gets built. A big beautiful wall. Believe me, the crowds will love it. Top ratings, okay?
*Simon:* I uh, need to go... I have a thing...
Lmfao at trumps first line
This makes me feel unwell.
hahahahaha this is good!
He's reviewed other movies on YT, he's actually quite a film buff
Smaakjeks K you couldn’t even bring up the point of the NY opioid rise or something related to the wire. This is just bad mouthing and not even funny, or not even topically witty.
1:44 he made Cedric Daniels say those same lines to Burrell and Rawls in season 4. That is what made Carcetti look at Daniels as 'his' man in the police force.
Rewatching this 5 years later I can’t imagine Trump actually sitting down with David Simon and being able have a intellectual conversation with sad times we’re living in
gonna be bigly...
Imagine Trump trying to discuss the themes in The Plot Against America
I miss feeling like the president is more responsible and intellectual than myself
@@alexh6533 You'll really miss that feeling if Biden gets elected.
trump would turn the conversation towards him. Gauranteed.
How amazing to see two intelligent men dissect real social issues.
How far have we fallen in 2017 with a comedy president , with tweets and sound bites.
Name one thing Obama did that was good for The United States
Bob Sacamento dude you responded a year later
Josh Doty that doesn’t take away from my question
Bob Sacamento ok you can wait for him to respond then
@@bobsacamento7879 He didn't grab any females by their private parts. He didn't denounce pride from ex military. He is not a racist. He is better than trump
You can see The President actually Listening Intently to LEARN and is being impacted by what he’s hearing!!
What a guy✊🏽
What, you think that's somehow supposed to be better than the guy who makes everyone in the room thank him for the opportunity to serve him?
I bet you were equally charmed by Tommy Carcetti. I bet that character went completely over your head. The narcissistic, predatory career politician who's all talk. Motivated only by winning debates and charming gullible, average IQ individuals such as yourself, and not so much caring about actual change.
Ask yourself: WTF did Obama do about the war on drugs?
trump only liked season 2
😂😂
the one with the most Russians
💀😂😂😂
Season two is up there for me, but I laughed. We all know trump drops the N word like Zig and I don't mean Nicky.
Season 2 is the best.
Obama the world misses you the cool the swag the leadership and your brilliant way to discuss the problems in America today! bring back Obama please
@Antonio Salazar those people have hated all American presidents rightfully so.
This is what a REAL American President looks like.
And.....sounds like.
Khaled Rapp how is Obama a war criminal?
God damn this country could use his sensitivity and intelligence right now. We miss you Barack. Great discussion and the greatest show ever made.
Still true
I love the irony on the reporter being interviewed by the president
Took reading this for it to really sink in. Obama must really respect him.
If you like the wire,I will vote for you.Plain and simple.
I bet Trump doesn't like the wire
Search "Trump Citizen Kane" and he talks in depth about one of the worlds greatest pieces of art and THE greatest in cinema. I detest the guy, but its surprising.
The Wire is Rush Limbaugh's favorite show, if I recall correctly. Just goes to show, it isn't only decent people who enjoy The Wire.
Put spaces after punctuation marks.
I liked the Wire would you vote for me?
What David Simon got to do here was speak truth to power. Great conversation.
I miss Obama so much.
*throws up*
The world misses him. He had his faults sure, but now you have a petty, immature, corrupt man child for president who spends his time insulting people on twitter. If you can honestly look at these two men and prefer Trump, then there is no hope for you.
James Wiggins
I miss Mr Obama too!
kilikiss trump is the better president. You are blatantly complaining about his behavior but not looking at his policies. Trump has done more than most of the modern day presidents. It’s a shame that you are indoctrinated by the news. Keep sipping on that kool aid
I tried watching "The Wire," but the 1st couple of episodes seemed pretty dark, brutal. I may give it a second try. Regardless of the merits of the show however, this interview reminded how much I miss Barack Obama's calming presence. He operates at such a high level of complex thinking and compassion, and is so articulate. The current president seems so terrible in comparison.
Would strongly recommend you give it another try dude. It isn’t an especially uplifting show, but you’ll definitely get a lot out of it, and feel smarter once you’ve watched your way through it
Highly recommend it, I watched during dirt lock down last year, I got so excited for each new episode. I loved the Sopranos but I think this is probably better.
I don't know of a way to do a real life story of drugs and inner city crime and not make it dark and brutal.
“He actually went in on conscience.”
Ah yes, conscience do cost
Perfect! So many great quotes from this series. "All the pieces matter"
We went from The Wire to Fox n' Friends. From Lt. Daniels to Ziggy. Goddamn.
now try to imagine an interview like this with your new president
He wouldn't make it through a single episode. Too complicated.
"The Wire is a bad show, very bad ratings. Sad !"
„Obama likes this show? So it has to be bad“
"The What?"
@Khaled Rapp Keep in mind that he's actually well-educated. It feels insane to me that someone with such a good education and privileges talks and behaves like he does
Listen here Bey, if you come at the king , you bets not miss... -Omar
Considering how poorly much of the policy commentary in The Wire has aged ("Hey guys, an open air drug market would totally solve everything!" [2023 Vancouver has entered the chat]) Obama's endorsement of The Wire has gone from being hip to an immortal indictment of his statist naiveté.
‘immortal indictment of his statist naïveté’ cringe
He likes it as a tv show not to solve America's problems, wtf are you even talking about ?
He likes it as a tv show not to solve America's problems, wtf are you even talking about ?
If you watched the wire and thought the message was "Hey, legalizing drugs in hamsterdam is totally good!" You've completely lost the plot. They couldn't have been clearer about the consequences and tradeoffs of it without spelling it out in crayon for you.
Hello ignorant checkmark. If you dont understand the Hamsterdam plotline, you should watch shows like One Piece or Dragon Ball, much simpler stories for simple minded people.
I am a simple woman, I see David Simon, I hit a like!
One thing about The Wire was they covered all aspects of Baltimore in each season. That’s what made this show successful and unique. All other crime shows had the same theme, season after season. That why The Wire was one of many people’s favorite show.
no mention of privatisation of jails.
Is it concerning to no one else that the president can be so aware of such issues, and be totally powerless to stop them
lol right? people are so impressed by the bare minimum lipservice to their fav teevee program. sure would like some actual cost controls on healthcare tho....would have been real nice....oh well im sure the 45k people who die preventatively every year will wait another decade for the next bluedog dem in disguise
kept waiting for him to say '' Shieeeeeeeet''
Hahaha, partna.
I ALWAYS imeeeeeeediately TRUST anyone who says "Trust me", or "Believe me" over and over again.
David Simon the Legend. Nobody could ever make a show like The Wire. Glad Obama did this interview.Awesome.
Imagine if it was Donald Trump talking to David Simon.
Just imagine.
Now, Americans, consider your damn vote this november.
My thought exactly. A painful one.
He'd be asking why Officer Collichio didn't get more screentime.
@Big Nasty
Sure. Because of his way of speaking ROFL
Just imagine Brandon 🤣
Love the wire!! I know GOT and breaking bad get all the attention, but I would put the wire in the same conversation.
It's above those two. The only show that matches it is The Sopranos.
@@oswaldkite2106 Don't forget Boardwalk Empire. If you haven't seen it I couldn't recommend it highly enough!
Here’s my list
1. Sopranos
2. The Wire
3. Breaking Bad
4. Mad Men
5. Boardwalk Empire
Totally agreed, I’ve yet to watch boardwalk empire it’s in line though
Obama is Carcetti, means well, but in the end was a careerist
Obama prefers Omar? Nice choice. I am torn between Bubs and Omar as my favorite character.
Wow, this was refreshing. I just feel smarter having watched this. I had to look up a few words and my mind worked out for a while.
A non-ironic "Thanks, Obama" from me!
Greatest tv show ever created. A true work of art.
RIP Michael 🙏 you brought Omar to life, and your other characters will live on and inspire others!
I doubt that David Simon seriously considered anyone but MKW for the role of Omar Little. The words he wrote became poetry when MKW and the rest of the cast spoke them.
Heartbreaking loss. Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Chadwick & MKW. This level of talent & soul is very rare in one lifetime. So sad. They were here for a reason but all gone too soon.
Obama a great president.Warm regards from Finland.
Obama's favorite character was Omar. Mines was Bodie
So many favorites: Bunk, Omar, Bodie, Carver, Lester and Prez.
Bunk Lester Bodie Michael
Michael, bubbles, bunk, omar...
So man Good characters. I like rawls, Lester and ofc the bunk
All of the above... plus the quiet, easily overlooked Lester Freeman.
Bunny Colvin and Rawls were great characters as well
Fascinating interview, thank you for posting it.
imagine getting the call that obama is going to interview YOU
My god, the sense of grief is overwhelming when listening to an actual leader talk.
@Jennifer Crossan Agreed...
I just ran across the wire a few months ago! It's a totally amazing of work! The gang and drug trade part seem completely real some of the best act if all time
The Wire will go down as one of the greatest pieces of art ever. The leader of the free world and first black president hung on this man’s every word
So, obviously, the most prominent fan of The Wire then made prosecutorial reform for non-violent offenders a priority, and supported States that were moving towards harm reduction through legalization of less destructive controlled substances, with an eye towards de-escalating the level of violence in the War on Drugs. In another universe, that is. Certainly not in ours.
The fact that this only has 550k views is deeply disturbing to me ..... this exact conversation has never been more relevant as America gets closer to the 2020 election.
Watching THE WIRE and having Town-Hall style discussions about it (including Mayors & District Attorneys) should be a MANDATORY part of any American election cycle for the next 16-24 years .....
Thank you for this upload.
Thank GOD for David Simon.
There is a kind of sickness in the fact that Obama watched and loved the wire, but at the highest orifices of power in the USA still became a milquetoast politician that couldn't do right for these broken communities.
I keep trying to wonder what kind of conversation this would be with 45. It's such a world of difference.I actually believe that we have been lost. I don't think we will ever be the same.
As much as I love Obama, he didn't really change any of this at all
The best having a conversation with the best.
If Obama made a talk show or a podcast I'd watch/listen.
Obaba: So James.... what got you into metal?
Your wish came true on Spotify!
You know I respect Barack Obama, but I never agreed with him 100% but you know what it took character to sit down and have this type of discussion. His leadership here is something this country greatly needs and sorely misses. Too bad there are so many people in this country who miss the boat, in terms of what he said.
Like when Daniels talks to Carcetti that first time
What a great conversation. I feel like you don't hear this a lot now and days. 😔
Surely Obama was in prime position to begin to change the status quo & cycle of decline, rather than look on as a fan of the show? It makes you wonder who really holds the strings of power, intelligent leader or no.
Good stuff, i'v been meaning to track down this episode since I caught some of it on TV a while ago. Thanks for the upload.
Loved Homicide Life on the Streets ( gritty, earlier David Simon’s series ).
That show came from his original book same title
Good on president Obama to acknowledge this. Can you imagine TRUMP having this conversation or even the ability to truly understand the issues? Big up Obama and the amazing the wire!! 'Got to- its America man'!!
How long ago was this? Did Obama change anything? Did Trump? Is Biden?
I spent a week in jail b/c of a probation violation and at least half of the people were in on short time drug charges- 2 months here, 4 months there, etc.
Its a lot of bad mouthing obama in these comments, tbh probably the same people that got trump in office.
Accretion Disk You people blame everything on the Russians don’t you
my God... a Real President!! i had forgotten what they look and sound like, and more importantly, that they have real intellect and curiosity!
WHERES WALLACE OBAMA??
How refreshing to hear a (ex) president that can articulate and construct a conversation. Wonderful, oh how the world misses this man.
I just started watching the Wire. After one episode I'm not really hooked yet. I've heard it takes about 3 to 4 episodes to really get into it. Can anyone confirm?
im 4 episodes in still not hooked :/
It's one of the greatest shows ever made. It's very raw and portrays a sad yet honest depiction of the many scales of life from the drug pushers on corners to the senators. Highly recommended.
You'll get hooked, stick with it.
It is the greatest show I've ever watched. Greater than Breaking Bad, Fresh Prince, Game Of Thrones, I Love Lucy, ETC.
*****
The only show to come close to The Wire is The Sopranos.
imagine making a show so good that the president becomes a fanboy...not only because The Wire is so entertaining but because its profound and an incredibly accurate depiction of american society
I dated a girl who was taking social work in university, suggested The Wire to her not sure if she'd see the forest for the trees. She fell in love with it, became obsessive about it.
Wow so humble and down to earth. He did so much to slow down the war on drugs.
Wouldn't you? He helped create the opioid epidemic. Don't fool yourself.
Amazing interview
I was a victim of that drug war.