Two-party government can be likened to “Siskel and Ebert.”
Consider slender Siskel to be Republican-conservative in his viewpoints, forceful in his logic, irascible in debate. Portly Ebert would be a Democrat- liberal, more open to change, a zealous advocate of the underdog.
Both work at the same task-to guide the American public (in their choice of cinematic entertainment). Both are intelligent, concerned with the quality of that which they oversee, and both are determined that their viewpoint is right. Each works toward advancing his own agenda, in movies. They push their ideas and perspectives, rooted in personal likes and dislikes (much like anyone, official or not).
Meeting on a regular basis, Siskel and Ebert compare present achievements (in cinema) with those of the past, and speculate on the future. They discuss the issues, innovations, stratagems, successes and failures of the craft they have devoted much of their lives to. (And like members of Congress, they are probably overpaid.) They argue, criticize, debate, dispute and vary.
Quite often, however (perhaps more than 50 percent of the time), they agree.
When all is said and done-after criticism is heaped on criticism; heated scorn is met with momentary disrespect, often overshadowing worthy accomplishments-Siskel and Ebert get the job done.
The moviegoing public is guided and informed, often entertained, sometimes led astray, sometimes led to truth.
Without the other, Ebert or Siskel would be altogether ineffective. Consider life with one thumb.
