on my computer I can't really see DDL's full expressions as the guy who doesn't want to hear another story storms past. In the theater it was much easier to see.... I remember watching it in the theater and when Lincoln turns to finish telling his joke, after the man storms by, and even before the scene completes, I remember thinking - - I could have just seen one of the greatest acting performance moments of my life.
I'm sure you and everyone else knows this... so pardon a brief Lincoln bio: Lincoln faced many foes... and those around him, for and against, and most today didn't and don't fully understand his stated beliefs in "Saving the Union" as his primary, and only, focus. Multi-faceted for sure, he was myopic in motivation. He pursued the 'end' with as much determination as I believe it's possible for a mere human to possess. No tragedy could deter him, not even his wife losing her mind nor the death of his son. This is what impresses me about that scene... Lincoln continues his joke undeterred. He readily accepts and abides dissent but it seems not to sway him in the least.
I don't know how to say it.. beyond my abilities. But that is what defines Lincoln, IMHO... so actually it's not just DDL..it's the screenwriter, director, editor... all who put that scene together. I often think that the writers, directors.. hell, even the guy holding the lights when filming... had to turn to one another after DDL completed that scene and been left speechless. - JamesJM
