Best part of the famous “root beer” scene is it was added as filler to pad an episode that was running short. Ended up being a good summary of why people like DS9.
It's the reason why Star trek NEVER needed Alist stars to populate it. Stage actors off Broadway character actors. Grizzled SAG actors you need an IMDb page to know them. But goddamn they chewed the warp nacelles off of every scene they inhabited! From Gawron to Jem'hadar elite soldier #4. They never dropped the ball of belief!
What makes this comment even better is that he also made the Ferengi a joke in the first place. "Armin Shimerman apologized for his performance as a Ferengi in an early episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, taking responsibility for not meeting the expectations of the character. The Ferengi were originally intended to be threatening and menacing like the Klingons but ended up becoming comedic relief on TNG." Source: The actor himself on The Shuttlepod Show youtube podcast. S2E10.
Yes he had THREE serious monologues during the course of the series. Always about humans. End of season 2, when he puts sisko in his place, referencing human barbarity and wars and holocausts. Then this root beer scene later. Then season 7, when he advised Nog not to get involved with human tribal warfare
My best memory of Quark was when he went back in time on earth. Every time travel story has the character worried about changing events of the past - which may affect their future. Quark was like… who cares! LOL! I will own this planet!! Loved that bit of writing.
@@chrissgchriss i like the way the ferengi shrieked and screamed under threat of t0rture by the post-WW2 American army. As a side note, that proves everything Quark says about humanity to be true. About our dark side
@@stevencoardvenice Exactly. Remember when Quark went back to his home planet - and to even stand around, he was being charged a slip of lat-num. LOL! That’s commentary on interest we pay daily on our credit cards for doing nothing. But the way DS9 presented this tidbit was so outrageous has me thinking - NO, my reality is outrageous!
I love how sarcastic and annoyed Garak was..until he realized Quark was making a point about the Federation, realizing that this was actually pretty clever.
Yeah, it's really easy to think Quark's a little dim given how Garak's sarcasm an dry wit is just bouncing off of him. By the end of the clip you realize that Quark just has a thick skin and, counter to what you might think, was actually completely engaged with his customer's needs.
@@Jermbot15 people who think they are smart with sarcastic remarks are in reality pretty low IQ. There is nothing smart in stating the opposite of what you're saying. Nor is there nothing stupid of not picking it up if someone isn't fluent in social cues. Especially online.
@@TespriI’d suggest attempting to make this point in relation to a discussion of a scripted fictional conversation Between two fictional characters is misplaced, lacking context, and closer to a “low iq ‘smart’ guy” move of the type you decry.
This scene is very reminiscent of some Cuban texts I've little doubt Ira Steven Behr has read. If you're brave enough and you know what DS9 is *actually* about, there's some good reading, both fiction and non.
@@cteal2018how is that a burn? It seems to me that it aligns positively with Quark's admission that he is a people person, not a cold, no nonsense arms dealer.
@@Ge1Ri4 It's meant to be taken in multiple ways, in true Garak fashion. It can, of course, be a perfectly innocent observation as you say, but it can also be Garak snidely pointing out how Quark enjoys interacting with him but the feeling is not mutual.
It was not perfection. I actually think Babylon 5 was better and characterized non-human races a lot better than DS9 but DS9 had some great moments (mostly involving Quark).
Quark: "And the worst part of it is, my only hope for salvation _is the Federation."_ Garak: *"I know **_PRECISELY_** how you feel."* Quark(probably): "(No, I don't think you do. Here, let me demonstrate.)" >reaches out for the root beer
I think Quark only did the root beer demonstration because Garak took him as not having problems on his level, and therefore not understanding the scale of the problem at hand. The demonstration showed Garak not only that the businessman knew the galactic level he was talking about, but also a little bit more than Garak even understood because of one key difference. Quark actually _respects_ the hu-mahn's innovation and drive on a level that a Cardassian can't get to very easily, what with their inflated egos and all. A Ferengi doesn't respect you for what your name is or where you were born, but instead how well you can make -them- money. 6th rule of acquisition: _Never allow family to stand in the way of acquisition._
@@NearlyH3adlessNickthe FEAL point of the scene, was that they both have similar motivations and problems, caused by the same SOURCE, with the same SOLUTION. I know, reading hasn't been "fundamental" since Geordi... But listening is still a skill you can master.
@@iami3rian394 what are you going on about with that whole 'master listening' thing? I was giving an opinion on something, what do you mean read and listen? Tf?!
One of my favorite exchanges in all of Star Trek. Quark's comment to Nog about humans can be as downright blood thirsty and nasty as Klingons when they need to be or forced into a desperate situation is another golden moment in Trek writing.
Let me tell you something about Hew-mons, Nephew. They're a wonderful, friendly people, as long as their bellies are full and their holosuites are working. But take away their creature comforts, deprive them of food, sleep, sonic showers, put their lives in jeopardy over an extended period of time and those same friendly, intelligent, wonderful people... will become as nasty and as violent as the most bloodthirsty Klingon. You don't believe me? Look at those faces. Look in their eyes.
It’s strange how Quark was right on the money about humans. Take away our creature comforts and force us to survive, watch us throw humanity aside when we go into survival mode.
was just watching an interview with Ira Behr and some of the cast and apparently when this scene was written the writers had intended it to be played for comedy, but Armin Shimmerman and Andy Robinson fought to be able to play it straight. So glad they won that, the scene is so good the way they played it.
@bernardkung7306 When Mel Brooks made Blazing Saddles he held auditions for a Frankie Laine style singer. Frankie Laine showed up. As he was singing the song someone said he thought it was a serious song. Mel Brooks said not to tell him it was a comedy that it would only be funny if sang seriously.
It was actually Armin that led the charge, he was a main cast member, so he had at least some clout, Robinson was agreeable, being a guest star had little influence. The director wasn't a usual one, and he wanted to play it as written, comedic, Armin stood his ground. So the went and got Behr, and he oked the change.
This is what made DS9 great. A large number of completely non-human subplots. Through TOS and TNG, people were led to assume that little goes on when humans aren't around.
@@DwarfDaddyAbsolutely. Mostly because of budgetary constraints, ST has been far too human-focused. Let us see more of the other species in the Federation
Have you heard of the 'Bechdel test'? I have what I call the Trekdel Test. A show or movie passes if there's a scene where two aliens have a conversation about something besides humans or Earth. The root beer scene wouldn't pass, but there was lots of stuff on DS9 that does.
I love how at the beginning Garak was being entirely glib, but when he said "I know EXACTLY how you feel!" when Quark said the worst part was that his only hope was the federation that that part felt 100% sincere
"How's a Ferengi supposed to make an honest living in a place like this?!" Even with everything else going on, I'm surprised Odo didn't find some way to pop up behind him and say "If one ever tries, I'll let you know".
Yeah, I love Garak. He has the most sweet and polite ways of telling people he fuckin' loathes everything about them and wishes this interaction would _end!_
Wrapping a veiled and clever insult within a profound or complimentary comment is something that Shakespeare did all the time. That's what made the writers of these scenes GENIUS. They are Shakespearean in their craft! And that says a lot!
Only rivaled (perhaps) by the scene in TNG where Guinan introduces Worf to prune juice. Another excellent nugget which outshone the episode it appeared in.
And the two sentiments remain the same as this video to outsiders. America is insidious, but we all hope it's enough to save us... coz we've all kinda drunk the root beer and it's growing on us a little..
@@NearlyH3adlessNick Except you know what happens when you drink too much root beer? Your teeth rot, and you get diabetes. By then it's too late, you're addicted.
Just watched an interview w Armin that he had to fight to play this scene this way because it was originally supposed to be just comic relief and instead they wanted to make it a deep scene about how neither of them want to admit they had grown to like the federation
"I like interacting with my customers. Talking to each other, getting to know one another. Like we're doing right now." "I can see the attraction...for you." Damn, Garak.
Ever since this scene, I’ve had an entIrely different perspective watching Star Trek. It’s this bittersweet feeling whenever you notice it. When Quark or someone else starts to give into the “human way” of doing things, even things you agree with, there’s still this silent death of what once was. I don’t know if I’m making sense. Like for example, near the end of ds9, when it was revealed that Ferenginar had started adopting practices like tax and healthcare, and we saw how profoundly it affected Quark, I couldn’t help but be sad and a little frustrated right there with him. Despite the fact that I knew that it was better that way, and in-fact worthy of celebration, I couldn’t refute Quark’s position either. There was no right or wrong, just something to mourn
It's like when you look at cities around the world today. They all look American. The people in them all dress in American and Western European style suits. You go on holiday to Ghana, and there's a McDonalds waiting to greet you. You lie on a beach in Mauritius and a Starbucks cup washes up beside you...
Interesting thing is, that also cuts both ways: over time, Starfleet becomes more militarized, more reliant on intelligence operatives, more open to using currency (where once it was adamant that money wasn't used,) and more noticeably cynical in attitude, if not in action.
@@bubbasbigblast8563 The money thing is new writers not understanding how a post-scarcity economy would work or being scared to realise that the Federation is closer to Communism than Capitalism. And I mean Communism in theory, not as practiced by Totalist states like the USSR.
One of the best thing about the acting in the Root Beer scene is what Quark and Garak are looking at any any given time. Quark, for the most part, either looks at Garak directly or somehow past him, looking at nothing in particular. I especially like him going from looking at nothing and straight into Garak's eyes at 2:16. Garak, on the other hand, very rarely take his eyes off Quark, bordering on staring. He only looks away from once, and for less than a second.
Garak’s character was a spy and assassin. It would be hardwired into him to never take his eyes off his target or he might miss a subtle tell that would provide him invaluable clues about what he was trying to learn. Andy Robinson played that incredibly well. Armin? He played his part perfectly as well. That casual glance off to the side, staring into nothing… you just know that his character is thinking about ways to get himself out of the situation. What he’s going to do if everything goes to hell, and he has to implement some kind of contingency plan. That’s exactly what a Ferengi would do.
I liked the root beer scene as a chance to reflect on the federation from non-members perspective for a change. Something DS9 did quite a bit but with all non-human characters.
I like that despite Garak's unscrupulous past behaviour (and that of his people) he is very good at small talk (unlike Romulans and Klingons) and even occasionally compliments those he is conversing with (e.g. when Quark says he likes getting to know his customers Garak replies "I can see the attraction for you" and then Quark says those purchasing weapons just want their merchandise no questions asked - so impersonal - Garak says "Your charms would be wasted". Indeed as Garak says in another episode (the one in which Sisko had to bring Odo to the founders' homeworld to cure Odo) "If there's one thing Cardissians excel at it's conversation". That is true, but the listener has to remember Cardissians' propensity for lying.
To be fair, the Romulans are pretty good at this, too. Garak is just a true master of his art. The Romulans are just so duplicit, their it ends up reaching critical mass and exploding into a web of deceit that consumes them, whereas the Cardassians know how to reign it in just enough to not QUITE get tangled in their own webs...most of the time. Though I'll point out "I can see the attraction...FOR YOU" implies that he doesn't find Quark enjoyable to talk to and he's mocking/being condescending to him. "Your charms would be wasted" is also kind of a sarcastic, backhanded compliment/insult. The thing is, Quark is in such a depressed mood, he doesn't really care, and Garak is probably always snarky that way, so Quark just rolls with it (so does Bashir, etc) Though the exchange over the Root Beer shows there's a bit more there. Quark DOES know that Garak's curiosity would encourage him to at least try it, and then they were instantly on the same wavelength about the Root Beer/Federation connection.
1:37 I always liked the look of appraisal on Quarks face as he looks at Garak, which makes him come up with idea of asking Garak to try some root beer.
“You know what’s really frightening? If you drink enough of it, you begin to like it.” Quark is one of my favorite characters on DS9. I love root beer myself, specifically Barq’s Root Beer. Funny thing is, if you drink enough it, you can start to tell the different taste flavors between the brands. Barq’s is my personal favorite, IBC being my second favorite (Especially if it's from the glass bottle) and A&W being third. Mug Root Beer is my least favorite and I think it tastes bad.
Search out some "Brownie caramel creme" root beer, nothing else even comes close. The cane sugar and addition of the caramel flavor really gives it a good taste.
Perhaps, but sarsaparilla is not available where I live. On the other hand, the different root beers can be used for different types of baking. A&W makes a great bread and Barqs goes great with melted ice cream to make jello.
I like how even though Quark and Garak insult the Federation and make fun of it, they still have a grudging respect for it. And in the end, the Federation does help Quark and Garak.
Only an idiot doesn't respect their opponent/rival and they're both intelligent men who run circles around the fools who underestimate them because they don't respect them.
I was thinking exactly the same thing. Ferengi aren't exactly known for making an "honest" living; they'll do whatever it takes to get as much latinum as possible.
@@brucea9871 to be fair, scheming doesn't have to be DIShonest. A ponzi scheme may not be illegal (*yes, it MIGHT be, but in a lot of places, it's not EXACTLY illegal - Social Security is structured as a ponzi scheme, for example), but it's still a scheme that isn't fair or equitable. And because paying fines and being arrested can be bad for business, a lot of Ferengi DO run a LEGAL business. Lies of omission, overstating benefits/understating costs, etc etc, sure...but legal.
0:25 "How thoughtless of me not to consider the effects the destruction of my home world would have on your business. These must be trying times for you. Be brave!" I hope to remember to use lines like this the next time some a-hole is dismissing my problems with theirs.
If the Federation is like anything Quark has described, then it is by far more insidious than he gives it credit for. The Maquis has a more nefarious description about the Federation saying they are more insidious than the Borg, because at least with the Borg, they tell you what they plan to do.
Oh that's the one I was trying to remember. It has ties with the episode from the first series where they're trying to get to an organic heaven, way from all the artificially synthetic existence.
When people are used to not having hope, it's hard not to feel distrustful and even resentful of those who have it, and especially those who offer it. But you do get to like it. We see this in what adds up to a parable, in this clip.
Ages ago, I'd written a synopsis of a species for a science fiction story (inspired from a creative writing class I took in high school). The original prompt was 'gray' though this was before I knew of the 'iconic' Grey Aliens. I envisioned them as colorless dinosaur-like creatures, themselves a created lifeform with the purpose of acting as living planetary terraformers. They could survive in the vacuum of deep space and on the surface of a neutron star. They mirrored some organic processes (holdovers from their creators) but they were inorganic, and after 'maturing' would cease aging, having an indefinite lifespan. Due to this, they had a drastically small population (in the 100's) and as such each individual would specialize into needed body configurations over time (for example, one ended up being kaiju sized, and acted as a living orbital launch platform to fling others into orbit). They were patently pacifistic, the 'ultimate shield'. Their manner of 'fighting' was to seal those under their care off in an impenetrable dome... and then expand the dome from within.
I have said since the very first time I ever saw this scene that it would be remembered as one of the best stand-alone scenes from DS9 and in all of Trek. I still believe that.
Something I love about DS9 over any other Trek show is the number of starring and recurring characters that aren't part of Starfleet. They add so much more nuance to the world because they criticize Starfleet's actions, either openly or privately, depending on the situation. This scene is a perfect example of that.
Garak is so smooth, I've seen this episode at least 20 times and I only just noticed he slipped in an insult and self-compliment so effortlessly. Quark: "I like getting to know one another like we are right now" Garak: "I can see the appeal......for you." XD
But I still feel Kira should have gone "not wildly helpful, Captain, we were ALREADY at battlestations, that's why we haven't been boarded. I was hoping for something more imaginative!"
I honestly thought Bashir was going to say about Klingons preferring melee weapons was going to be, "The best thing to remember is to keep calm, and shoot them." Lol
0:51 I know exactly how he feels. Almost 2 years ago I left my job to work for Ozarka delivering water. I soon realized that it was a horrible mistake, I would be driving in a van delivering water to people for at least 6 to 10 hours a day alone. I put in my two weeks notice and by the end of the month I was back at Sam’s Club when I realize this fact that I prefer to work and interact with people then alone.
“What are your orders, Captain?” “Battle stations!” “Uuuuhhhhh…yyyes sir. *on PA* All hands…continue manning your stations. Repeat. Remain at battle stations.”
one of best scenes in all of star trek from handful and could easily be the best from 2 super strong supporting characters. feel like this is what set ds9 apart was while the main cast may not have been as strong as Generation it didn't offer much beyond the ensemble whereas here there were numerous interesting and likable characters
I love the exchange, especially Garak's subtle insults. My only beef is that it "flows" as though Garak's lines were all filmed in one go and then intercut into Quark's speech in some hasty editing. The comment from Bobaklives about how this scene was shot as filler may explain that.
Much later on, during the Dominion War, when the Dominion was occupying the station, Quark complains that even though business is going well, he hates how things are under the Dominion. "I want to sell root beer again."
Quark: "And the worst part is, my only hope of salvation, is the FEDERATION." Garek: "I know PRECISELY how you feel." Quark: *Stares briefly at Garek, thinking, 'No, you DON'T. But I'll fix that.'*
Something I realize now about quark is that he would have been a great weapons salesman if he applied his people skills. Yes most likely want to just get their weapons and get out, but most would have a reason for needing those weapons. Having a merchant who will not only sell you weapons, but is personable enough to know the situation and the exact weapons you need to win? Well that's a valuable asset right there. And next time you have a problem, you are likely to go right back to that merchant.
@@DwarfDaddy I thought the same thing when I first tried it, but now I'm able to drink it because I like the taste of it... I even like dandelion and burdock after trying it too, after moving to the UK!
Possibly the single greatest scene in all of DS9. Unsurprisingly the best scene on DS9 involves Garak the best and most underutilized character on DS9 🖖🏾
The Star Trek universe has fantastic explanations of things. This is my second favorite. For me...the best was in TOS when NOMAD described women as "A mass of conflicting IMPULSES"!!!
DS9 had the best dialogue. So many layers. What I love about DS9 is the fact that the protagonists were not all working for the federation, and their actions and words were all dependent on often conflicting motives and values. Quark, Odo, and Garak always had great dialogue, especially when talking to each other, because there was usually some salty subtext, and snide sarcasm.
Part of the joy for me as a server in watching this scene is recognizing that Quark isn't in business mode, he's just venting, whereas being a spy, Garak's listening skills are OP and he's just patiently tolerating having come for a drink and been put in the therapist's seat.
Best part of the famous “root beer” scene is it was added as filler to pad an episode that was running short. Ended up being a good summary of why people like DS9.
bUT iT rUinS tHe PoINt oF StAR treK!!!
@@ifound15min How?
@@junheceta268 I’m pretty sure they’re being facetious
It's the reason why Star trek NEVER needed Alist stars to populate it. Stage actors off Broadway character actors. Grizzled SAG actors you need an IMDb page to know them. But goddamn they chewed the warp nacelles off of every scene they inhabited! From Gawron to Jem'hadar elite soldier #4. They never dropped the ball of belief!
I completely agree with Garak on the Root Beer!
Armin, almost single-handedly, saved the Ferengi from being a joke. He gave them texture, depth, and more.
What makes this comment even better is that he also made the Ferengi a joke in the first place.
"Armin Shimerman apologized for his performance as a Ferengi in an early episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, taking responsibility for not meeting the expectations of the character. The Ferengi were originally intended to be threatening and menacing like the Klingons but ended up becoming comedic relief on TNG."
Source: The actor himself on The Shuttlepod Show youtube podcast. S2E10.
Yes he had THREE serious monologues during the course of the series. Always about humans. End of season 2, when he puts sisko in his place, referencing human barbarity and wars and holocausts. Then this root beer scene later. Then season 7, when he advised Nog not to get involved with human tribal warfare
My best memory of Quark was when he went back in time on earth. Every time travel story has the character worried about changing events of the past - which may affect their future. Quark was like… who cares! LOL! I will own this planet!! Loved that bit of writing.
@@chrissgchriss i like the way the ferengi shrieked and screamed under threat of t0rture by the post-WW2 American army.
As a side note, that proves everything Quark says about humanity to be true. About our dark side
@@stevencoardvenice Exactly. Remember when Quark went back to his home planet - and to even stand around, he was being charged a slip of lat-num. LOL! That’s commentary on interest we pay daily on our credit cards for doing nothing. But the way DS9 presented this tidbit was so outrageous has me thinking - NO, my reality is outrageous!
I love how sarcastic and annoyed Garak was..until he realized Quark was making a point about the Federation, realizing that this was actually pretty clever.
Yeah, it's really easy to think Quark's a little dim given how Garak's sarcasm an dry wit is just bouncing off of him. By the end of the clip you realize that Quark just has a thick skin and, counter to what you might think, was actually completely engaged with his customer's needs.
@@Jermbot15 people who think they are smart with sarcastic remarks are in reality pretty low IQ. There is nothing smart in stating the opposite of what you're saying. Nor is there nothing stupid of not picking it up if someone isn't fluent in social cues. Especially online.
@@TespriI’d suggest attempting to make this point in relation to a discussion of a scripted fictional conversation Between two fictional characters is misplaced, lacking context, and closer to a “low iq ‘smart’ guy” move of the type you decry.
@@DeadSpatula i take it that you love being sarcastic?
@@Tespriwhat a sarcastic question
Written as a joke, to fill time; but turned into a memorable poignant moment by the actors who saw a golden opportunity to play it straight instead.
if you like deconstructions about acting and are a fan of anime, I suggest skipbeat!
@fakennamel7044Not skipbeat! that show is awesome.
@@sanddagger36One of the few anime that held true to the original source material. Followed the manga scene for scene until the final episode.
@@raphaelsolo still dont know why there's been no new season
This scene is very reminiscent of some Cuban texts I've little doubt Ira Steven Behr has read. If you're brave enough and you know what DS9 is *actually* about, there's some good reading, both fiction and non.
Garak's smirking delivery of "It's insidious!" might be my favourite line in this show. What a character, Quark is just as brilliantly acted too
I agree. His opinion of the drink changed as soon as he knew they shared something.
@@ianmorga4018 not changed, his honesty setting, and opinion of quark changed a little maybe
"I can see the attraction...for you." Such a casual mid-grade burn.
@@cteal2018how is that a burn? It seems to me that it aligns positively with Quark's admission that he is a people person, not a cold, no nonsense arms dealer.
@@Ge1Ri4 It's meant to be taken in multiple ways, in true Garak fashion. It can, of course, be a perfectly innocent observation as you say, but it can also be Garak snidely pointing out how Quark enjoys interacting with him but the feeling is not mutual.
A random ‘throwaway scene’ perfectly describe the Federation from an outsiders viewpoint perfectly. DS9 was perfection.
It was not perfection. I actually think Babylon 5 was better and characterized non-human races a lot better than DS9 but DS9 had some great moments (mostly involving Quark).
@@inlikeflynn7238 Maybe not perfection, but it was the best Trek Show ever and the closest thing ever to Babylon 5.
This clip alone is an example of how much better Trek was years ago and how bad NuTrek is now.
@@garyda1strange new worlds is pretty good. Discovery was an abomination and an insult to are trek.
@feartheghus I totally agree. I think Paramount listened to the fans and came up with a winner!
Quark: "And the worst part of it is, my only hope for salvation _is the Federation."_
Garak: *"I know **_PRECISELY_** how you feel."*
Quark(probably): "(No, I don't think you do. Here, let me demonstrate.)" >reaches out for the root beer
I think Quark only did the root beer demonstration because Garak took him as not having problems on his level, and therefore not understanding the scale of the problem at hand.
The demonstration showed Garak not only that the businessman knew the galactic level he was talking about, but also a little bit more than Garak even understood because of one key difference.
Quark actually _respects_ the hu-mahn's innovation and drive on a level that a Cardassian can't get to very easily, what with their inflated egos and all. A Ferengi doesn't respect you for what your name is or where you were born, but instead how well you can make -them- money.
6th rule of acquisition: _Never allow family to stand in the way of acquisition._
@@NearlyH3adlessNickthe FEAL point of the scene, was that they both have similar motivations and problems, caused by the same SOURCE, with the same SOLUTION.
I know, reading hasn't been "fundamental" since Geordi... But listening is still a skill you can master.
@@iami3rian394 what are you going on about with that whole 'master listening' thing? I was giving an opinion on something, what do you mean read and listen? Tf?!
@@NearlyH3adlessNick It's profound because he used an ellipsis.
One of my favorite exchanges in all of Star Trek. Quark's comment to Nog about humans can be as downright blood thirsty and nasty as Klingons when they need to be or forced into a desperate situation is another golden moment in Trek writing.
I like that scene. Just give me a holodeck. A sonic shower and a full belly and I'm good to go.
Let me tell you something about Hew-mons, Nephew. They're a wonderful, friendly people, as long as their bellies are full and their holosuites are working. But take away their creature comforts, deprive them of food, sleep, sonic showers, put their lives in jeopardy over an extended period of time and those same friendly, intelligent, wonderful people... will become as nasty and as violent as the most bloodthirsty Klingon. You don't believe me? Look at those faces. Look in their eyes.
@@Jhonka8807 " I feel sorry for the Jem Hadar"
It’s strange how Quark was right on the money about humans. Take away our creature comforts and force us to survive, watch us throw humanity aside when we go into survival mode.
Almost like Quark was written by humans who knew this already from the past thousand years of it happening. So prophetic.
was just watching an interview with Ira Behr and some of the cast and apparently when this scene was written the writers had intended it to be played for comedy, but Armin Shimmerman and Andy Robinson fought to be able to play it straight. So glad they won that, the scene is so good the way they played it.
And... it's actually _funnier_ that way.
@bernardkung7306
When Mel Brooks made Blazing Saddles he held auditions for a Frankie Laine style singer. Frankie Laine showed up. As he was singing the song someone said he thought it was a serious song. Mel Brooks said not to tell him it was a comedy that it would only be funny if sang seriously.
It was actually Armin that led the charge, he was a main cast member, so he had at least some clout, Robinson was agreeable, being a guest star had little influence. The director wasn't a usual one, and he wanted to play it as written, comedic, Armin stood his ground. So the went and got Behr, and he oked the change.
This is what made DS9 great. A large number of completely non-human subplots. Through TOS and TNG, people were led to assume that little goes on when humans aren't around.
I keep saying this is what a new Trek show needs, a mostly alien crew.
TNG is okay. DS9 and ENT are the best
@@DwarfDaddyAbsolutely. Mostly because of budgetary constraints, ST has been far too human-focused. Let us see more of the other species in the Federation
@@jameswatsonatheistgamer I may not agree on that, but I still like the point you are making.
Have you heard of the 'Bechdel test'? I have what I call the Trekdel Test. A show or movie passes if there's a scene where two aliens have a conversation about something besides humans or Earth. The root beer scene wouldn't pass, but there was lots of stuff on DS9 that does.
I love how at the beginning Garak was being entirely glib, but when he said "I know EXACTLY how you feel!" when Quark said the worst part was that his only hope was the federation that that part felt 100% sincere
"How's a Ferengi supposed to make an honest living in a place like this?!"
Even with everything else going on, I'm surprised Odo didn't find some way to pop up behind him and say "If one ever tries, I'll let you know".
My favorite part that people missed is in the inflection from Garrak: "I can see the attraction, FOR YOU."
I miss this kind of subtle writing.
Yeah, I love Garak. He has the most sweet and polite ways of telling people he fuckin' loathes everything about them and wishes this interaction would _end!_
Wrapping a veiled and clever insult within a profound or complimentary comment is something that Shakespeare did all the time. That's what made the writers of these scenes GENIUS. They are Shakespearean in their craft! And that says a lot!
Garak.
One r!
@@ValiantWrestling well, one R does make for a more plain, simple Garlic.
I don't think that was writing. More like acting.
Every glassware in DS9 could double as a bong.
Yeahs espacially Kanar
@@Jesus_Offical i use to have that bottle
Could?
They ARE all Meth Bongs!(Snakes)
Stoner junkies everywhere...
The Meeting of the unlikely minds. Quark and garak. A Ferengi and a Cardassian. Finding common sense and ground due to circumstances.
"If you drink enough of it, you begin to like it."
We do love to make everything addictive.
I believe it was Quark that said something along the lines of, "They ingest poison? Humans will buy anything!" referring to cigarettes.
Wait… Quark owns a _bar!_ Were they drinking regular root beer, or _hard_ root beer?!
One of the best exchanges in Trek, PERIOD!!
Only rivaled (perhaps) by the scene in TNG where Guinan introduces Worf to prune juice. Another excellent nugget which outshone the episode it appeared in.
@@Setebos YES!!!
My grandmother: this is poo juice; it helps babies when they’re constipated.
Worf: Prune juice....a WARRIOR’S drink!!!! 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾🤣😎
This is one of my favorite pieces of dialogue in any media
Back in the Cold War days, Europeans used to complain about American "Coca-Colonization..."
Yesss, it's this!!
And the two sentiments remain the same as this video to outsiders.
America is insidious, but we all hope it's enough to save us... coz we've all kinda drunk the root beer and it's growing on us a little..
@@NearlyH3adlessNick Except you know what happens when you drink too much root beer? Your teeth rot, and you get diabetes. By then it's too late, you're addicted.
Yes they did.
Just watched an interview w Armin that he had to fight to play this scene this way because it was originally supposed to be just comic relief and instead they wanted to make it a deep scene about how neither of them want to admit they had grown to like the federation
ua-cam.com/video/B3SupbBRR2c/v-deo.html
Around 1hr 50 mark
And of course, the scene is actually funnier that way.
Not grown to like the Federation but worse -- to NEED it.
@@LordZontar both
"I like interacting with my customers. Talking to each other, getting to know one another. Like we're doing right now."
"I can see the attraction...for you."
Damn, Garak.
Ever since this scene, I’ve had an entIrely different perspective watching Star Trek. It’s this bittersweet feeling whenever you notice it. When Quark or someone else starts to give into the “human way” of doing things, even things you agree with, there’s still this silent death of what once was. I don’t know if I’m making sense.
Like for example, near the end of ds9, when it was revealed that Ferenginar had started adopting practices like tax and healthcare, and we saw how profoundly it affected Quark, I couldn’t help but be sad and a little frustrated right there with him. Despite the fact that I knew that it was better that way, and in-fact worthy of celebration, I couldn’t refute Quark’s position either. There was no right or wrong, just something to mourn
It's like when you look at cities around the world today. They all look American. The people in them all dress in American and Western European style suits.
You go on holiday to Ghana, and there's a McDonalds waiting to greet you. You lie on a beach in Mauritius and a Starbucks cup washes up beside you...
Colonization doesn't always require a flag being planted.
This is what a "culture win" from the Civ games looks like.
Interesting thing is, that also cuts both ways: over time, Starfleet becomes more militarized, more reliant on intelligence operatives, more open to using currency (where once it was adamant that money wasn't used,) and more noticeably cynical in attitude, if not in action.
@@bubbasbigblast8563
The money thing is new writers not understanding how a post-scarcity economy would work or being scared to realise that the Federation is closer to Communism than Capitalism.
And I mean Communism in theory, not as practiced by Totalist states like the USSR.
Garak is sarcastic beyond belief
He is the James Bond of the Obsidian Order, after all.
I can see the appeal, for you.
@@ElBandito "Kiss the girl, steal the key. They didn't teach us that one..."
@@xheralt What's this quote from? "Kiss the girl, steal the key. They didn't teach us that one..."
Sounds familiar, but I can't think of what from...
@@SubduedRadical “Our Man Bashier”
One of the best thing about the acting in the Root Beer scene is what Quark and Garak are looking at any any given time.
Quark, for the most part, either looks at Garak directly or somehow past him, looking at nothing in particular. I especially like him going from looking at nothing and straight into Garak's eyes at 2:16. Garak, on the other hand, very rarely take his eyes off Quark, bordering on staring. He only looks away from once, and for less than a second.
I can see what you mean, at 2:16, either really good acting or excellent editing. either way, great storytelling!
@@krakenpots5693always creepy how Andy Robinson almost never blinked....
Garak’s character was a spy and assassin. It would be hardwired into him to never take his eyes off his target or he might miss a subtle tell that would provide him invaluable clues about what he was trying to learn. Andy Robinson played that incredibly well.
Armin? He played his part perfectly as well. That casual glance off to the side, staring into nothing… you just know that his character is thinking about ways to get himself out of the situation. What he’s going to do if everything goes to hell, and he has to implement some kind of contingency plan. That’s exactly what a Ferengi would do.
One of my favorite scenes in the series. DS9 is like a fine wine. It gets better with time.
Maybe it's more like root beer. The more you watch it, the more you like it.
Compared to everything, that came after ENT, that show is a shining diamond in the dark.
I liked the root beer scene as a chance to reflect on the federation from non-members perspective for a change. Something DS9 did quite a bit but with all non-human characters.
I like that despite Garak's unscrupulous past behaviour (and that of his people) he is very good at small talk (unlike Romulans and Klingons) and even occasionally compliments those he is conversing with (e.g. when Quark says he likes getting to know his customers Garak replies "I can see the attraction for you" and then Quark says those purchasing weapons just want their merchandise no questions asked - so impersonal - Garak says "Your charms would be wasted". Indeed as Garak says in another episode (the one in which Sisko had to bring Odo to the founders' homeworld to cure Odo) "If there's one thing Cardissians excel at it's conversation". That is true, but the listener has to remember Cardissians' propensity for lying.
well Dukat still holds the 1-st place in talking lol
Man, if you think those were compliments I have some ocean front property for sale in Arizona. Wanna buy that too?
He's intelligent thats why everyone finds him fascinating
He is a spy. He once posed as a gardener. Of course he can talk well.
To be fair, the Romulans are pretty good at this, too. Garak is just a true master of his art. The Romulans are just so duplicit, their it ends up reaching critical mass and exploding into a web of deceit that consumes them, whereas the Cardassians know how to reign it in just enough to not QUITE get tangled in their own webs...most of the time.
Though I'll point out "I can see the attraction...FOR YOU" implies that he doesn't find Quark enjoyable to talk to and he's mocking/being condescending to him. "Your charms would be wasted" is also kind of a sarcastic, backhanded compliment/insult. The thing is, Quark is in such a depressed mood, he doesn't really care, and Garak is probably always snarky that way, so Quark just rolls with it (so does Bashir, etc)
Though the exchange over the Root Beer shows there's a bit more there. Quark DOES know that Garak's curiosity would encourage him to at least try it, and then they were instantly on the same wavelength about the Root Beer/Federation connection.
I love Garak's response to root beer... "IT'S VILE!"
1:37 I always liked the look of appraisal on Quarks face as he looks at Garak, which makes him come up with idea of asking Garak to try some root beer.
No only the writers, but the way the actors delivered the lines. Brilliant all around
One of the best if not the best of the series. A simple conversation loaded with implication.
“You know what’s really frightening? If you drink enough of it, you begin to like it.” Quark is one of my favorite characters on DS9.
I love root beer myself, specifically Barq’s Root Beer. Funny thing is, if you drink enough it, you can start to tell the different taste flavors between the brands. Barq’s is my personal favorite, IBC being my second favorite (Especially if it's from the glass bottle) and A&W being third. Mug Root Beer is my least favorite and I think it tastes bad.
Sarsaparilla is better
Search out some "Brownie caramel creme" root beer, nothing else even comes close. The cane sugar and addition of the caramel flavor really gives it a good taste.
Perhaps, but sarsaparilla is not available where I live. On the other hand, the different root beers can be used for different types of baking. A&W makes a great bread and Barqs goes great with melted ice cream to make jello.
If you can get it, Abita makes a fantastic root beer occasionally. Barq's is the best that is widely available, and Mug is complete crap, agreed.
Mug sucks
I like how even though Quark and Garak insult the Federation and make fun of it, they still have a grudging respect for it. And in the end, the Federation does help Quark and Garak.
Only an idiot doesn't respect their opponent/rival and they're both intelligent men who run circles around the fools who underestimate them because they don't respect them.
If I were an actor or acting teacher I would use this scene.. The voice inflections, facial expressions through the makeup, the writing..
Eddington made the same observation about the Federation: "The Federation assimilates you and you don't even know it"
"It's insidious". What a great delivery......
Ever since hearing this conversation in 1995, its been one of my all-time favorites in Star Trek
My two favorite characters! :)
"How's a Ferengi supposed to make an honest living in a place like this?!" How many schemes a day do you conduct?!
I was thinking exactly the same thing. Ferengi aren't exactly known for making an "honest" living; they'll do whatever it takes to get as much latinum as possible.
he dose make a good point though if your constantly under attack how is anyone suposed to get anything done.
@@brucea9871 some are a bit more honest then others. Or at least have 2 sides to their buisness dealings above the table/under the table
@@brucea9871 to be fair, scheming doesn't have to be DIShonest. A ponzi scheme may not be illegal (*yes, it MIGHT be, but in a lot of places, it's not EXACTLY illegal - Social Security is structured as a ponzi scheme, for example), but it's still a scheme that isn't fair or equitable.
And because paying fines and being arrested can be bad for business, a lot of Ferengi DO run a LEGAL business. Lies of omission, overstating benefits/understating costs, etc etc, sure...but legal.
He didn't ask how to make a DISHONEST living, he already knows that. Heasked how to make an HONEST one!
0:25 "How thoughtless of me not to consider the effects the destruction of my home world would have on your business. These must be trying times for you. Be brave!"
I hope to remember to use lines like this the next time some a-hole is dismissing my problems with theirs.
If the Federation is like anything Quark has described, then it is by far more insidious than he gives it credit for. The Maquis has a more nefarious description about the Federation saying they are more insidious than the Borg, because at least with the Borg, they tell you what they plan to do.
A utopia where you can do anything except leave.
Oh that's the one I was trying to remember.
It has ties with the episode from the first series where they're trying to get to an organic heaven, way from all the artificially synthetic existence.
@@NeilCWCampbell Basically, it's Shangri-La
@@KuDastardly well yes although I suspect at my heart I'm Maquis...as it does seem in the federation you can do anything except leave;)
When people are used to not having hope, it's hard not to feel distrustful and even resentful of those who have it, and especially those who offer it. But you do get to like it. We see this in what adds up to a parable, in this clip.
Hold up. Admiral *Hastur?* No wonder the Federation always comes out ahead. They recruited a damn outer god. It truly is insidious.
No matter how many times I watch this scene it never gets old.
I love the sarcasm dripping from Garak. "Oh I'm sorry, did my homemplanet being destroyed inconvenience *your* business?"
Ages ago, I'd written a synopsis of a species for a science fiction story (inspired from a creative writing class I took in high school). The original prompt was 'gray' though this was before I knew of the 'iconic' Grey Aliens.
I envisioned them as colorless dinosaur-like creatures, themselves a created lifeform with the purpose of acting as living planetary terraformers. They could survive in the vacuum of deep space and on the surface of a neutron star. They mirrored some organic processes (holdovers from their creators) but they were inorganic, and after 'maturing' would cease aging, having an indefinite lifespan. Due to this, they had a drastically small population (in the 100's) and as such each individual would specialize into needed body configurations over time (for example, one ended up being kaiju sized, and acted as a living orbital launch platform to fling others into orbit).
They were patently pacifistic, the 'ultimate shield'. Their manner of 'fighting' was to seal those under their care off in an impenetrable dome... and then expand the dome from within.
Fun fact: The kanar bottle was reused as a prop in Smallville.
I have said since the very first time I ever saw this scene that it would be remembered as one of the best stand-alone scenes from DS9 and in all of Trek. I still believe that.
best show ever. They set the standard no other sci fi show lived up to this.
2:17 "It's insidious" I love this quote.
LOL, YT algorithm pulling up an ad for the movie "Insidious" to go with this clip!
"It's insidious." 😊
And interesting and humorous moment between two of my favorite ST characters.
This one of the best scenes in all of Star Trek. I love how they interact, and how he describes the root beer.
This is brilliant writing.
And acting. And direction. And cinematography.
Something I love about DS9 over any other Trek show is the number of starring and recurring characters that aren't part of Starfleet. They add so much more nuance to the world because they criticize Starfleet's actions, either openly or privately, depending on the situation. This scene is a perfect example of that.
"I can see the appeal, for you."
Garak can throw shade with the best of them.
Garak is so smooth, I've seen this episode at least 20 times and I only just noticed he slipped in an insult and self-compliment so effortlessly.
Quark: "I like getting to know one another like we are right now"
Garak: "I can see the appeal......for you."
XD
everyone is passing over the best line ever... "what are your orders captain?" BATTLESTATIONS!
But I still feel Kira should have gone "not wildly helpful, Captain, we were ALREADY at battlestations, that's why we haven't been boarded. I was hoping for something more imaginative!"
one of the things that i love about both Garek and Odo is how overly sarcastic those two can get
I honestly thought Bashir was going to say about Klingons preferring melee weapons was going to be, "The best thing to remember is to keep calm, and shoot them." Lol
0:51 I know exactly how he feels. Almost 2 years ago I left my job to work for Ozarka delivering water. I soon realized that it was a horrible mistake, I would be driving in a van delivering water to people for at least 6 to 10 hours a day alone. I put in my two weeks notice and by the end of the month I was back at Sam’s Club when I realize this fact that I prefer to work and interact with people then alone.
“What are your orders, Captain?”
“Battle stations!”
“Uuuuhhhhh…yyyes sir. *on PA* All hands…continue manning your stations. Repeat. Remain at battle stations.”
okay yeah, that was some pretty weird writing lol 😂
I just used this scene to teach my kid the definition of insidious. Thanks Mr. Garak.
For only having been in thirty some episodes, Garak sure made quite an impact on the show...
"I can see the attraction... for you."
one of best scenes in all of star trek from handful and could easily be the best from 2 super strong supporting characters. feel like this is what set ds9 apart was while the main cast may not have been as strong as Generation it didn't offer much beyond the ensemble whereas here there were numerous interesting and likable characters
I love the exchange, especially Garak's subtle insults. My only beef is that it "flows" as though Garak's lines were all filmed in one go and then intercut into Quark's speech in some hasty editing. The comment from Bobaklives about how this scene was shot as filler may explain that.
I really really enjoy drinking Root Beer.
"It's Vile!"
"So now, Gaela owns his own moon. And I'm staring into the abyss. And the worst part of it all is, my only hope for salvation is the Federation!"
"I know precisely how you feel..." 🥃
Much later on, during the Dominion War, when the Dominion was occupying the station, Quark complains that even though business is going well, he hates how things are under the Dominion. "I want to sell root beer again."
Quark: "And the worst part is, my only hope of salvation, is the FEDERATION."
Garek: "I know PRECISELY how you feel."
Quark: *Stares briefly at Garek, thinking, 'No, you DON'T. But I'll fix that.'*
My two favorite characters plus incredibly written dialogue makes for a very memorable scene
best scene in all of Trek, period - any show or movie. Quark (Armin) & Garak (Andrew) are treasures.
"I can see the attraction...for you" 🤣
This never gets old
Something I realize now about quark is that he would have been a great weapons salesman if he applied his people skills. Yes most likely want to just get their weapons and get out, but most would have a reason for needing those weapons. Having a merchant who will not only sell you weapons, but is personable enough to know the situation and the exact weapons you need to win? Well that's a valuable asset right there. And next time you have a problem, you are likely to go right back to that merchant.
Love this seen
It's a nice moon too.
The characters and the writing really sets this show apart from the rest. I grew up on TNG, then graduated on DS9
Garak's subtle burn, "I can understand the appeal... for you."
It's insidious Just like the federation!
So a Ferengi and Cardassian walk into a bar...
"i can see the attraction FOR YOU" loooool
This is my fave DS9 episode! The Klingon attack was insane.
Garak:"It's vile!" Lol. I share that sentiment. XD
I know I’ve tried Root Beer and it always tastes like cough medicine to me.
@@DwarfDaddy I thought the same thing when I first tried it, but now I'm able to drink it because I like the taste of it... I even like dandelion and burdock after trying it too, after moving to the UK!
@@stormkeepergu I might be an acquired taste kinda thing but I just have no interest in acquiring it
I think the Quark and Garek scene is my favorite scene from the entire show.
Possibly the single greatest scene in all of DS9. Unsurprisingly the best scene on DS9 involves Garak the best and most underutilized character on DS9 🖖🏾
The greatest explanation of Root Beer that I've ever heard.
The Star Trek universe has fantastic explanations of things. This is my second favorite. For me...the best was in TOS when NOMAD described women as "A mass of conflicting IMPULSES"!!!
How did Garack know the Klingons were attacking?😂 He still had his obsidian order clearance on the station. Id love a garack series!
Ahh my favorite scene. When I watched it the first time I didn't knew it would grow on me over time.
I watched all of DS9 as a teen, but I think I remember this scene the best.
"Talking to each other...getting to know one another..."
Garak: Keeps his mouth shut and says nothing about himself.
Absolutely loved this scene. God it's such good writing.
Every word out of Garek's mouth is pure gold.
Especially the lies.
I can certainly see the appeal of it…for you!
Cheers.
You know what's even more insidious? This would make a fantastic root beer commercial.
great scene. one of the few i remember.
God i love this show
DS9 had the best dialogue. So many layers. What I love about DS9 is the fact that the protagonists were not all working for the federation, and their actions and words were all dependent on often conflicting motives and values. Quark, Odo, and Garak always had great dialogue, especially when talking to each other, because there was usually some salty subtext, and snide sarcasm.
Who would’ve guessed that root beer was just like the Federation? Vile…… and insidious!
Part of the joy for me as a server in watching this scene is recognizing that Quark isn't in business mode, he's just venting, whereas being a spy, Garak's listening skills are OP and he's just patiently tolerating having come for a drink and been put in the therapist's seat.