“Parks and Recreation” has slowly blossomed from the show no one watched, to the show that everyone’s been quoting.
After a shaky first season, the mockumentary-style series quickly found its footing and has become one of the most acclaimed comedies on TV.
Backed by a large ensemble of scene-stealing supporting cast members, “Parks and Recreation” has hit its stride, striking the perfect comedic balance between sarcasm and sentiment.
Set in the fictional Pawnee, Ind., a small Midwest town that proudly declares itself “first in friendship, fourth in obesity,” the show explores the humorous world of local government.
Amy Poehler stars as the endlessly optimistic Leslie Knope, deputy director of Pawnee’s Parks and Recreation department.
What’s unique about this comedy is that every character is inherently lovable (well, except for punching bag Jerry, naturally). From the cocky yet good-natured Tom Haverford (Aziz Ansari), to the hilariously deadpan intern April Ludgate (Aubrey Plaza) to the goofy shoe shiner-turned-personal-assistant Andy Dwyer (Chris Pratt), there isn’t an unlikable character in the bunch.
And then, of course, there’s staunch libertarian Ron Swanson, a character whose killer mustache and love of meat have launched a dedicated cult following.
This season finds Leslie vying for a position in the Pawnee city council, with the Parks and Rec crew doubling as her ragtag campaign team. After a scandal nearly knocked her out of the race, Leslie is struggling to make up ground against her opponent Bobby Newport (guest star Paul Rudd).
For a guaranteed laugh, catch “Parks and Recreation” Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. on NBC.
thescene@theeagleonline.com
