Dan relentlessly mocks Gary about his oversized bag and his role as the Vice President's personal aide. The tension escalates as Dan questions Gary's physical bravery and willingness to take a bullet, while Anna attempts to mediate the workplace bullying.
DAN: Nice bag Gary.
ANNA: He calls it 'The Leviathan'.
DAN: You got the nuclear codes in there?
GARY: Ha, yes, you see, what I have in here may seem trivial but it is far from trivial. [He takes out two small tins] See? Two types of lip salve - one is ordinary, everyday, regular salve. But if the Veep is in too many air-conditioned rooms her lips get…
Format: Scene · Genre: Political Satire · Source: VEEP PILOT · Author: Barry Luc · Characters: Dan, Gary, Anna
This high-stakes scene, "Gary's Lip Salve Philosophy," features Dan, Gary, and Anna in a dynamic political workplace. Dan's relentless teasing of Gary, specifically targeting his large bag and dedicated role as the Vice President's personal aide, drives the core conflict. The conversation escalates dramatically as Dan pushes boundaries, questioning Gary's physical courage and loyalty, forcing Gary to defend his crucial, if seemingly mundane, responsibilities.
Gary is portrayed as an earnest yet slightly pathetic character, deeply committed to his role and fiercely loyal, despite the bullying he endures. His detailed explanation of the lip salve's importance reveals his deep sense of responsibility and dedication to the Vice President, showcasing a character who finds profound meaning in seemingly trivial tasks. Dan, conversely, embodies the "Authority Figure" or "Young Professional" archetype, using sarcasm and aggressive questioning to assert dominance and highlight perceived weaknesses in others. Anna, acting as a mediator, represents a more grounded presence, attempting to de-escalate Dan's caustic behavior and maintain some semblance of workplace decorum.
This scene is excellent for auditions because it provides clear character arcs and a strong emotional journey for Gary's character, moving from earnest explanation to genuine discomfort. The interplay between the three characters allows for distinct choices and reactions, making it suitable for actors showcasing their ability to handle both comedic timing and dramatic tension. The contemporary, political satire genre offers a chance to explore nuanced performances that blend humor with underlying vulnerability, appealing to casting directors looking for versatile actors.
This scene is best suited for male actors in their 30s-40s aiming for roles that require a blend of comic relief, earnestness, and a touch of pathos, such as a "Sidekick" or "Everyman" type. It's particularly effective for those seeking "Young Professional" or even "Authority Figure" roles, depending on which character they portray. The "Slightly Pathetic" tone allows actors to demonstrate vulnerability and resilience, making it suitable for both self-tapes and agent showcases where showing emotional range within a comedic framework is beneficial.
When performing Gary, lean into his unwavering dedication and the genuine belief he has in his job, even as Dan attempts to belittle it. Allow his earnestness to shine through, but also clearly register the impact of Dan's increasingly personal attacks, letting his discomfort and worry become palpable. For Dan, embrace the sardonic humor and underlying power dynamic, using verbal sparring as a tool to provoke and control. Anna should focus on her mediating role, reacting with frustration and disapproval towards Dan's bullying, creating a clear contrast to the other two.