Every time there’s trouble in the Middle East, I can’t help but think of Charles Durning. Such a classic performance, stole the show. It’s worth watching the whole movie just to see him.
Everytime Governor Abbott does one of his grandstanding moves, this song comes to mind. Politicians aside, this was one of the best numbers in the film.
Having lived in Austin during this time, this is absolutely the funniest song ever about Texas politics. Unbelievable! I adore Charles Durning. He is a great dancer and this song lets him really strut his stuff.
Charles Durning was quite an accomplished dancer, great character actor, war hero and a good human being who said he wasn't a hero in the war. The soldiers who didn't come back were the heroic ones. How's that for humility. Rest in Peace Charlie!!
I only just saw this movie for the first time and the Governor has the most wonderful characterization and he's barely in the movie. This song is priceless, the dance is adorable and the hat on sideways and then turning his head so it falls on correctly is one of those wonderful small details that makes the character so delightful.
@@jeremyjeconner5422 I love how the musical perfectly captured how politicians act only if it is beneficial to their careers or elections. The Governor waited until the polls showed him what the majority wanted then he made a decision, even though he has visited the Chicken Ranch himself.
I remember the governor we had here in Texas when this movie was being made. Even though this was a part in a movie, Charles Durning would've made a better sidestepping governor we had back then and even since then. R.I.P. Mr. Durning, a great American hero of WWII and tremendous actor.
@Gary Jackson It's also a classic bonehead comment from an American diplomat trying to negotiate an agreement in Jordan; the movie was referring to that.
this song is not only funny, well performed etc, but so bloody true for every politician in the world! from local Goverment, committees and councils right through to whoever runs the country your from
I have seen this movie about a million times and love every part of it, but this part has me laughing from beginning to end and Mr. Durning did so very good and I can not thing of a movie or show that he was on that he didn't do it well. This is a true and honest American Hero with a silver star and three purple hearts. He may not have bragged or talk about it much, but he was a Hero on every level. He will be missed.
So very sad this song was one of the first things that came to mind when I heard he passed :( RIP Charles you were a fine actor sadly they aren't made like you anymore...
I'm just a poor boy Come to greatness Amnd so it follows, I cannot tell a lie! What a wonderful actor. As menacing as a thug or a crook as he was hysterical as a small town mayor or a snake-oil salesman. They don't make 'em like Charles Durning any more, dagnabbit.
This movie has been sort of a 'guilty pleasure' of mine since it came out. Charles Durning was delightful. Romney should definitely use this as his campaign song.
His 'excellency'....? Is that how Texans address their politicians? :) LOVE this song...so true of all politicians. Durning is incredible - he was great in Tootsie too !
Durning - just Great! This is one of my most favorite best-ever bits - Durning's 'Sidestep' is spectacular. From War hero (Silver Star and 3 Purple Hearts - among the first to land at Omaha Beach) to Movie Star - a great American - his 89 years weren't enough. R.I.P. Mr. Durning. You are missed.
Find and watch his performance on an episode of NCIS where he portrays a WW2 vet suffering PTSD and thinks he murdered a fellow soldier during the War; stunning! Tear-jerking....
Think about it; these two men lived long lives, both rising from humble origins, served their country, and had long and distinguished careers almost working until their deaths. How many of us can say that? If anything, their lives should inspire us to live doing that what we love. Wouldn't you agree?
Have always loved this scene. Must be a favorite scene for a current candidate raised in a middle class family. She opens her mouth and i see her in this clip.
One of my favorite movies ever. THE SIDESTEP From : "The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas" (Carol Hall) Charles Durning Fellow Texans, I am proudly standing here to humbly see. I assure you, and I mean it- Now, who says I don't speak out as plain as day? And, fellow Texans, I'm for progress and the flag- long may it fly. I'm a poor boy, come to greatness. So, it follows that I cannot tell a lie. Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't- I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step, cut a little swathe and lead the people on. Now my good friends, it behooves me to be solemn and declare, I'm for goodness and for profit and for living clean and saying daily prayer. And now, my good friends, you can sleep nights, I'll continue to stand tall. You can trust me, for I promise, I shall keep a watchful eye upon ya'll... Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't- I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step, cut a little swathe and lead the people on. Now, Miss Mona, I don't know her, though I've heard the name, oh yes. But, of course I've no close contact, so what she is doing I can only guess. And now, Miss Mona, she's a blemish on the face of that good town. I am taking certain steps here, someone somewhere's gonna have to close her down. Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't- I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step, cut a little swathe and lead the people on. Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep... And, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step... Cut a little swathe and lead the people on.
That says it all. I'm just now seeing this performance, brought on by the recommendation of another commentator on the Twighlights Last Gleaming. I first saw him dance in an PBS American Playhouse episode in the early 1980's and then in True Confessions also from the early 80's
I seen this play preformed live twice. Both time the man who play the Governor steals the show with this song. And Charles Durning does the same in the movie.
RIP, Charles. I just read that many were very surprised he was so 'nimble of foot' in this scene; but..he was a dance instructor when young and met his (first?) wife at the dance studio!! Great scene! Love this movie.
I had forgotten what an excellent performance (and I'm sorry, movie!) this was. I must have watched this 50 times when I was a kid and can still remember all the words of his song and dance. RIP Charles Durning - thanks for the smiles!
JESUS what a GREAT, CLASSIC song-and-dance number JESUS this is what made Broadway great THANK YOU for posting this i had searched for this video excerpt years ago, it didnt exist then Thank you, KJM2672, for posting this And I am not only grateful as a Broadway Musical fan But also as a an American who is a follower of real-world American politics THIS IS WHO GOVERNS US Guys exactly like this PS IF YOU ARE AMERICAN AND YOU DONT KNOW THIS... PLEASE DO NOT VOTE!!
Durning was a professional dancer in his early career, even giving dance classes. And of course his great military service. He could play comedy and drama with equal brilliance.
I went to see this movie the first time for my mother, who loved Burt Reynolds back in the day. From the 2nd viewing on, I watched to see Charles Durning.
The movie as a whole isn't that bad, its actually kind of good. Its just the subject matter that's very odd. But I have to say that after seeing this clip, then watching the whole movie, this song was stuck in my head all day long, and really didn't mind.
![Charles Durning performs "Sidestep" on Dolly Parton variety show [ABC, January 16, 1988]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QWmZjdNvxRY/mqdefault.jpg)
No better secondary man in any film he was in than Charles Durning. Loved him in everything!
Every time there’s trouble in the Middle East, I can’t help but think of Charles Durning. Such a classic performance, stole the show. It’s worth watching the whole movie just to see him.
Everytime Governor Abbott does one of his grandstanding moves, this song comes to mind. Politicians aside, this was one of the best numbers in the film.
I have to admit every time I hear a political speach - I find myself humming this song in my head!
Me too
Me too ! For 20+ years! Charles Durning is a GREAT underrated actor.
Especially when it's a democratic speech lol
Yep, either party the stories are same
I know, right?
This guy dances pretty good for someone with 3 Purple Hearts. RIP dear Sir.
2:24-When he says "standing tall", and he moves that dude down off the step even with him!!!!!!!!! Lol.This was written and choreographed ingeniously!
This is every politician. No political alignment under attack here. Just politics in general.
What a gift this performance is. it brings big smiles every time and never gets old. RIP, great man.
Flumensong I agree !!
truly a great American . . .
Having lived in Austin during this time, this is absolutely the funniest song ever about Texas politics. Unbelievable! I adore Charles Durning. He is a great dancer and this song lets him really strut his stuff.
Back in the 70s and 80s Texas was chic
Charles Durning was quite an accomplished dancer, great character actor, war hero and a good human being who said he wasn't a hero in the war. The soldiers who didn't come back were the heroic ones. How's that for humility. Rest in Peace Charlie!!
I only just saw this movie for the first time and the Governor has the most wonderful characterization and he's barely in the movie. This song is priceless, the dance is adorable and the hat on sideways and then turning his head so it falls on correctly is one of those wonderful small details that makes the character so delightful.
It's actually a true story and durnings character is modeled after the actual governor who tried to get it shut down Dolph Briscoe
@@jeremyjeconner5422 I love how the musical perfectly captured how politicians act only if it is beneficial to their careers or elections. The Governor waited until the polls showed him what the majority wanted then he made a decision, even though he has visited the Chicken Ranch himself.
@eryian agreed my cousin played in the movie told us the whole story when I was a kid way way back when lol
I bought the movie just for this SONG!!!! The POLITICAL AWARD FOR ALL TIME.
No Academy Award for this song. But it is a classic.
And it should gotten one
@@paulstroope6738It wasn't written for the film. It was from the Broadway show. To get an Oscar, it has to be original for the film.
I remember the governor we had here in Texas when this movie was being made. Even though this was a part in a movie, Charles Durning would've made a better sidestepping governor we had back then and even since then. R.I.P. Mr. Durning, a great American hero of WWII and tremendous actor.
"It behooves both the Jews and the A-rabs to settle their differences in a Christian manner." Bwahaha
One of the greatest movie lines ever.
Hey, joke?? lighten up people!
As in ~these white neanderthals?? or thichk sliced bread?
@@dougearnest7590 That is not a "line in a movie". An American diplomat actually said that in a meeting of Jews and Muslims.
@Gary Jackson It's also a classic bonehead comment from an American diplomat trying to negotiate an agreement in Jordan; the movie was referring to that.
@Gary Jackson NWOR
this song is not only funny, well performed etc, but so bloody true for every politician in the world! from local Goverment, committees and councils right through to whoever runs the country your from
Yup.... every single one of them. X
EVERY POLITICIAN, INCLUDING MR. T.
@@bird4birdhotmail Dementia Joe comes to mind
This was such a fun movie. A classic. Dolly and Burt were hilarious.
And this song definitely fits every politician.
And yet the critics panned it when it came out. Go figure. I agree it really is a fun movie.
I have seen this movie about a million times and love every part of it, but this part has me laughing from beginning to end and Mr. Durning did so very good and I can not thing of a movie or show that he was on that he didn't do it well. This is a true and honest American Hero with a silver star and three purple hearts. He may not have bragged or talk about it much, but he was a Hero on every level. He will be missed.
Durning. Legend.
This scene is the definition of a show stopper. He is wonderfull and brilliant in this. Mr. Durning will be missed.
Charles Durning put the word "character" in character actor! All time greatest!!
It's 2020 and our sitting POTUS drove me to look this gem up again.
This is the second movie I've ever seen him in ( the first is Oh brother where art thou) and it absolutely great
I saw this film in the theater when it first came out. I knew this show stopping number would get him an Oscar nomination. Too bad he didn't win.
Best little song in the whole show
So very sad this song was one of the first things that came to mind when I heard he passed :( RIP Charles you were a fine actor sadly they aren't made like you anymore...
My Dad loved this song.
My Dad could sing and he would sing this song and do the dance.
I miss my Dad 😢
This was funny back in the day but scarey real today. That said, it’s still funny to remember the movie.
this was an Oscar nominated performance! Mr. Durning couldn't have been better in this role!! It is a delight every time I watch it!!
I'm just a poor boy
Come to greatness
Amnd so it follows,
I cannot tell a lie!
What a wonderful actor. As menacing as a thug or a crook as he was hysterical as a small town mayor or a snake-oil salesman. They don't make 'em like Charles Durning any more, dagnabbit.
Highlight of the movie. And the stuff with the hat is priceless.
I like how when he put on his hat side way, it turns right way, when he turn his head.
I love this WAY too much.
This song is even more relevant today. Thanks Charles. Before you rest in peace could you dance a little sidestep one more time?
Charles Durning, one of my favorite character actors. Who knew he could sing and dance so well? 😁
He was a WWII Hero, also.
3:07, that smile!!!
This movie has been sort of a 'guilty pleasure' of mine since it came out. Charles Durning was delightful. Romney should definitely use this as his campaign song.
Yes RIP Charles...I always felt a film was worth watching and of some quality when I saw him in it.
His 'excellency'....? Is that how Texans address their politicians? :)
LOVE this song...so true of all politicians. Durning is incredible - he was great in Tootsie too !
What a life he had. Mr. Durning will be missed, but what a great body of work he left for us to enjoy.
ALL Politicians Theme Song
Durning - just Great!
This is one of my most favorite best-ever bits - Durning's 'Sidestep' is spectacular.
From War hero (Silver Star and 3 Purple Hearts - among the first to land at Omaha Beach) to Movie Star - a great American - his 89 years weren't enough.
R.I.P. Mr. Durning. You are missed.
I love Charles Durning.
Find and watch his performance on an episode of NCIS where he portrays a WW2 vet suffering PTSD and thinks he murdered a fellow soldier during the War; stunning! Tear-jerking....
One of favorite songs in this movie
Every time I see politicians blah, blah blah, I think of this. Whoever wrote this song understood our government. Charles Durning was a treasure.
Words and music by Carol Hall
It pretty much covers all of them. It is what they do best, sidestepping.
Think about it; these two men lived long lives, both rising from humble origins, served their country, and had long and distinguished careers almost working until their deaths. How many of us can say that? If anything, their lives should inspire us to live doing that what we love. Wouldn't you agree?
Whoever thought Charles Durning could dance...RIP big guy!
Since he was at one time a
dance instructor,
probably quite a few.
My god. The similarity between him and Abbott are amazing.
I never knew Charles Durning was so graceful a dancer!
Have always loved this scene. Must be a favorite scene for a current candidate raised in a middle class family. She opens her mouth and i see her in this clip.
RIP Mr. Durning after living an honorable life and serving our country in WWII and then coming home and sharing your talent.
I also love the part with Dom Deluise, another great talent who is sadly no longer with us.
THANKS, I WAS TRYING TO REMEMBER HIS NAME.
God if he was still alive, I would definitely vote for him a POTUS
"Is that a yes or a no??" "It's a possible maybe,"
I love this video. Did not care for this movie but I laughed so hard when Mr. Durning did this. Rest peacefully.
What a great talent and a great man. RIP.
I'll vote for the 1st politician to use this song in a own campaign ad!
RIP Charles Durning, this is one of the finest comedy moments of all time
Hard to belive that same man was a D-Day veteran.
I have a new respect for Charles durning I so use to see him in dramas and action
One of my favorite movies ever.
THE SIDESTEP
From : "The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas"
(Carol Hall)
Charles Durning
Fellow Texans, I am proudly standing here to humbly see.
I assure you, and I mean it- Now, who says I don't speak out as plain as day?
And, fellow Texans, I'm for progress and the flag- long may it fly.
I'm a poor boy, come to greatness. So, it follows that I cannot tell a lie.
Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't-
I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step,
cut a little swathe and lead the people on.
Now my good friends, it behooves me to be solemn and declare,
I'm for goodness and for profit and for living clean and saying daily prayer.
And now, my good friends, you can sleep nights, I'll continue to stand tall.
You can trust me, for I promise, I shall keep a watchful eye upon ya'll...
Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't-
I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step,
cut a little swathe and lead the people on.
Now, Miss Mona, I don't know her, though I've heard the name, oh yes.
But, of course I've no close contact, so what she is doing I can only guess.
And now, Miss Mona, she's a blemish on the face of that good town.
I am taking certain steps here, someone somewhere's gonna have to close her down.
Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep, now they see me now they don't-
I've come and gone and, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step,
cut a little swathe and lead the people on.
Ooh I love to dance a little sidestep...
And, ooh I love to sweep around the wide step...
Cut a little swathe and lead the people on.
I read in his obit that he was a dance instructor when he was young, even met his first wife at the dance studio where they both worked!
That says it all.
I'm just now seeing this performance, brought on by the recommendation of another commentator on the Twighlights Last Gleaming.
I first saw him dance in an PBS American Playhouse episode in the early 1980's and then in True Confessions also from the early 80's
this is one of my favorite parts 🇺🇸🚓
I love his little dance moves.
And I love me some Charles Durning! Such a talented great man, RIP!
LOVE this song, thanks for posting the full version and good sound quality, so many by others have been crap
So darn funny. I think about this song every time a politician is talking on the news.LOL
I seen this play preformed live twice. Both time the man who play the Governor steals the show with this song. And Charles Durning does the same in the movie.
RIP, Charles. I just read that many were very surprised he was so 'nimble of foot' in this scene; but..he was a dance instructor when young and met his (first?) wife at the dance studio!! Great scene! Love this movie.
I had forgotten what an excellent performance (and I'm sorry, movie!) this was. I must have watched this 50 times when I was a kid and can still remember all the words of his song and dance. RIP Charles Durning - thanks for the smiles!
RIP Charles, one of the greatest dance scenes ever.
This is the first performance I think of when I think of Charles Durning. But he gave us so many more.
You will be missed.
My all time favorite truthful telling of most politicians....
My favorite song from this musical.
Salamon2 It always makes me laugh. Love it.
Mr. Durning was a song and dance man going way back plus a decorated Marine
Liam Ryan - decorated US Army Veteran. Participated in Normandy invasion.
JESUS what a GREAT, CLASSIC song-and-dance number
JESUS this is what made Broadway great
THANK YOU for posting this
i had searched for this video excerpt years ago, it didnt exist then
Thank you, KJM2672, for posting this
And I am not only grateful as a Broadway Musical fan
But also as a an American who is a follower of real-world American politics
THIS IS WHO GOVERNS US
Guys exactly like this
PS
IF YOU ARE AMERICAN AND YOU DONT KNOW THIS... PLEASE DO NOT VOTE!!
We've lost another great one, rest in peace Mr. Durning.
R.I.P. Charles. Thank you for the entertainment, it was great.
RIP Mr Durning... what an unforgettable performance!
Great Song!!! Great Movie!!!
What a wonderful scene from this movie! He was a great one.
Charles Durning: the BEST Governor of the Great State of Texas!
This is one of my favorite songs from one of my favorite old movies. Thank you for this!
Durning was a professional dancer in his early career, even giving dance classes. And of course his great military service. He could play comedy and drama with equal brilliance.
I have been to the capitol building. Quite a beautiful spot
How adorable can one be? He was a Gift to all who saw him.
I went to see this movie the first time for my mother, who loved Burt Reynolds back in the day. From the 2nd viewing on, I watched to see Charles Durning.
Politics. Politicians.
Yep. Perfect video.
Good movie to. I recommend it to everyone over the age of 18.
The movie as a whole isn't that bad, its actually kind of good. Its just the subject matter that's very odd. But I have to say that after seeing this clip, then watching the whole movie, this song was stuck in my head all day long, and really didn't mind.
cosmosblue772 not odd but controversial.
"What the hell did he say?" "Same as usual, nothing!"
"Why has the chicken ranch operation been so long ignored?" "We seem to be having some acoustic problems in here."
Too funny.
"...not a damn thing"
True American hero. RIP sir.
Such talent!!
I'll miss both Charles Durning and Jack Klugman. Both were GREAT.
Winner of the Academy Award this year and all years.
Thanks for having posted this. My favorite part of the movie. Loved his singing and that remarkable dancing. R.I.P. Mr Durning
He didn't realize he was playing Governor Synder from Michigan 30 years prior. Brilliant!
This man will be missed and my deepest prayers for his family.rest in peace,my friend.
Charles Durning stoped the show with this number. No wonder it got him nominated for an Oscar.
I can't stop watching it.
Will miss him...a great actor !
This man landed on Omaha Beach in 1945
Bill O'Sullivan, yes, my mistake.
june 6 1944 sir, not 45
So he was quite late to the party?
Only a few feet away from Burt Reynold father........in 1944.