GHOSTED Thin Enough to See Through

Article first published as TV Review: GHOSTED on Seat42F.

Tonight brings the premiere of FOX’s GHOSTED. A disgraced scientist, now book store clerk, who studied the theoretical multi-verse and claims his wife has been abducted by aliens, is kidnapped and partnered with a once-great detective, who blames himself for his former partner’s death and now serves in mall security, by a top-secret organization known as the Underground Bureau. Together, they are tasked to find a top agent who has gone missing. It’s going to take all their skills and more in this paranormal twist on the buddy cop genre.

The lead characters in GHOSTED are Max Jennifer (Adam Scott, Parks & Recreation), the scientist, and Leroy Wright (Craig Robinson, The Office), the detective. Both are brilliant men who have fallen from grace, but not lost any of the things that made them so good in their chosen professions. Max is the believer, and Leroy is the skeptic. It’s sort of like The X-Files mixed with Lethal Weapon mixed Men in Black with a large dollop of I don’t even know what.

Casting Scott and Robinson is the best thing GHOSTED has going for it. Both are vastly funny, almost as if by second nature, skilled and experienced in the art of sitcom. They have terrific timing and solid chemistry. All the best moments from the pilot involve their interactions. They strike the right balance between acting the story and going for the gag, and I find no flaw in their performances.

I also really like the supporting cast. Ally Walker (Profiler, Colony) has a fantastic spirit as the hard-nosed boss, Captain Ava Lafrey. Amber Stevens West (The Carmichael Show) balances things as the sweet, technologically gifted Annie. Adeel Akhtar (The Night Manager) is just plain bizarre as co-worker Barry, a good energy for a show like this. While the focus will likely stay on the partners, these three do make things entertaining when the action shifts back to the workplace, nicely fleshing out the world of GHOSTED.

Where I have to stop heaping praise is when we get to the writing. The pilot contains numerous plot holes or unrealistic stretches. GHOSTED decides to get right into the story as early in the running time as possible, which means the characters don’t have enough time to bond before they have to start acting like a team. There’s a lazy attempt to right this with a 48-hour window Leroy and Max are initially given, but there’s no real effort to stick to that premise, tossed out as soon as it’s convenient. The investigation itself proceeds very weirdly, and the time line doesn’t quite make sense if you stop and think about it. Concepts are introduced and then quickly moved past without explanation.

I wonder about the decision to do this, knowing that going the other way is also risky. Sometimes a series takes too long to set up the premise, or just does it in episode one, which feels very generic. But I feel there has to be a middle ground. Events must feel fluid and natural, not just jammed in. The coincidences, such as a big reveal at the end of the pilot, are even OK in this context. I just want GHOSTED to catch its breath and make sure everything adds up before they jump into filming the episode. Hopefully that happens in subsequent episodes, as there is mega potential here.

I’ll end with another bit of praise, and that’s that the special effects look great. Technology has bounded ahead in recent years to the point where even a broadcast network sitcom can do zany, supernatural and otherworldly stuff and pay for it to look good. I have nothing bad to say about the production design and SFX.

GHOSTED premieres tonight at 8:30 ET on FOX.

BIG LITTLE LIES Big Fun With Little to Complain About

Article first published as BIG LITTLE LIES Review on Seat42F.

HBO is known for attracting top talent, especially for their limited-run programming. Nowhere is that trend more apparent than in the new miniseries BIG LITTLE LIES, premiering tonight. Written by David E. Kelley (The Practice), directed by Jean-Marc Vallee (Dallas Buyers Club), and boasting an all-star cast, this seven-part story is the less-cheesy version of a primetime soap. It takes place in an affluent neighborhood, and focuses on the mothers of first graders. And oh yes, there’s a mysterious murder.

BIG LITTLE LIES doesn’t tell you who’s dead and who did the killing right away. Its hook is based on suspense. We know something bad happened slightly in the future, but we don’t know why or to who or even who did it. The whole thing is told on an earlier timeline, which makes viewers pay more attention to every interaction between characters, seeing if they can figure out the twists before they are revealed.

The fact that the show is a miniseries, rather than an ongoing program, is also a benefit in drawing in eyeballs. The stakes are higher when the audience knows that nobody is coming back for a second season. That means we can’t just dismiss a star or main player from being the criminal or victim out of hand. There is no motivation to keep anyone’s hands clean, and that makes it all the more compelling.

Reese Witherspoon’s (Walk the Line, Wild) Madison Martha Mackenzie seems the most central role. In a marriage she values with a steady man, Ed (Adam Scott, Parks and Recreation), she still can’t get over her ex, Nathan (James Tupper, Revenge), nor does she care much for his new wife, Bonnie (Zoë Kravitz, Max Max: Fury Road). In the meantime, she’s dealing with a rebellious teenager, hanging out with her two best friends, and battling another mother for dominancy at school.

Madison’s pals are Celeste Wright (Nicole Kidman, Moulin Rouge!, Lion) and Jane Chapman (Shailene Woodley, Divergent, The Secret Life of the American Teenager). Jane is new in town, and is slow to give up information about herself. Celeste has been around for awhile, and quit her law career to stay home and raise a family for her younger husband, Peter (Alexander Skarsgård).

None of the three seem all that happy, especially when they come into contact with the mother on the other side of their war, Renata Klein (Laura Dern, Enlightened, The Founder). Each deal with their own issues, and while they seem relatively sweet, it’s also easy to see how any of them could either be pushed to murder, or be murdered by someone else.

On paper, the plot seems a lot like ABC’s Revenge, which I gave up on midway through. Comparing BIG LITTLE LIES to Revenge is the best way I can think of to illustrate the extreme examples in the genre of what works and what doesn’t. Revenge may have been fun, but it never rose to Desperate Housewives levels of quality, a like-minded show I’d put in the middle of the rankings. This one is at the top, giving us the juiciness audiences want, while still making a quality series by nearly any measure.

I like BIG LITTLE LIES. It’s wonderfully acted, beautifully shot, and has a terrific style and tone. It deals with material that would be very easy to make cartoonish, and yet keeps it from being so. Even the child actors, though less talented than their adult peers, are well selected, adding to the drama, rather than distracting from it. After watching two hours, I am fully invested in seeing this through to the end.

BIG LITTLE LIES premieres tonight at 9/8c on HBO.

"One Last Ride" for PARKS AND REC

Article first published as TV Review: 'Parks and Recreation' Series Finale - "One Last Ride" on Blogcritics.

Parks and Recreation, the last great sitcom in NBC’s once-proud legacy of comedy, came to an end this week with the hour-long “One Last Ride.” In it, the Parks Department gang goes on one final mission, while we see flash forwards to the futures of all of our main characters, as well as several secondary characters. It’s an emotional triumph.

As the episode opens, many in the group are getting ready to leave Pawnee, Indiana. While they have all moved on, none currently employed at the office in which they so memorably worked together, they’ve stayed in touch and still lived nearby. But now, some are moving halfway across the country, and it’s a true end of an era. Leslie (Amy Poehler) plans on commemorating it with a very in-depth recounting of their time together.

Thankfully, Leslie’s plan, which most of the others find boring, is interrupted when a citizen shows up to ask to get a swing fixed. Despite the fact that the Parks Department isn’t yet open for the day and that none of them have any authority to help, Leslie sees this as a chance to recapture their glory days, and as has happened so many times, the rest grudgingly agree to assist.

Leslie is the glue that holds them all together, and while she can be annoying, without her, they wouldn’t have built the family they all cherish so much. That’s why she and her husband, Ben (Adam Scott), get the lion’s share of the focus in “One Last Ride,” with hints that Leslie eventually becomes President of the United States after serving successfully as governor of Indiana. Her dedication and her persistence helps them all, and at the end of the day, they do all realize and value that.

The various other futures, which are shown in different years to give us a more complete view of the characters’ timelines, are appropriate. All the characters end up happy, professionally fulfilled, and romantically satisfied. It may not be realistic to have such across-the-board success, but with Leslie behind them all the way, often popping back into their lives when they need her, it makes sense that this particular group would defy the odds and do well for themselves. Donna (Retta), Ron (Nick Offerman), Tom (Aziz Ansari), Andy (Chris Pratt), April (Aubrey Plaza), even Garry (Jim O’Heir), who, despite his plethora of names over the run, I still think of as Jerry, end up where they should be. This fixing of the swing is not the last time they are all together.

The central cast of Parks and Recreation is strong, but the series has always benefited from a solid second and third string. “One Last Ride” pays tribute to that, too, with flash forwards for Craig (Billy Eichner) and Jean-Ralphio (Ben Schwartz), and appearances from Chris (Rob Lowe), Ann (Rashida Jones), Lucy (Natalie Morales), Joe (Keegan-Michael Key), Perd (Jay Jackson), Mona-Lisa (Jenny Slate), Ethel (Helen Slayton-Hughes), Gayle (Christie Brinkley), Jen (Kathryn Hahn), Brandi (Mara Marini), Dr. Saperstein (Henry Winkler), Joe Biden (himself), and more. What’s notable about all of these guest stars is that they slide seamlessly into the main narrative, not distracting or disrupting the main story. Not everyone that arguably should be included is, but that’s OK because they aren’t the point of the finale. They are all well used, and while it doesn’t feel like a role call is being conducted, we’re left with quite a significant list who are involved.

Similarly, the futuristic technology included is a fun touch, but not all that important to what’s going on. This has been a trend all season, as these episodes have been set in 2017, and other than one really funny bit, the tech isn’t essential to any scene.

The hour ends far too soon, taking us back to the present setting of the show. It’s an installment full of humor and heart, one that makes fans laugh and cry, and captures both the spirit and the core point of Parks and Recreation. All told, I couldn’t imagine a more perfect way to send off the odd comedy about a bunch of misfits who achieve great things as a team. It will be sorely missed, both because of its own merits, and because it leaves the network that brought us Seinfeld, Friends, and The Office without another sitcom of this level of quality.

"Moving Up" in the PARKS AND RECREATION World

Article first published as TV Review: 'Parks and Recreation' - 'Moving Up' on Blogcritics.

This week’s season finale of NBC’s Parks and Recreation, “Moving Up,” is nearly a perfect episode, and would have served extremely well as a series finale. Leslie (Amy Poehler) contemplates taking a huge job opportunity in Chicago, which would mean leaving the town of Pawnee, Indiana, which she doesn’t want to do. Meanwhile, the long-awaited Unity Concert unfolds, and the rest of the ensemble have strong development, too.

Leslie is the main character in Parks and Recreation and usually has the biggest stories. “Moving Up” is no exception. For most of the hour-long double episode, she is wavering back and forth over a life-altering choice. She’d really like the opportunity to run the National Parks Service in the Midwest, but that means abandoning the town she loves at a crucial time, as they are still reeling from the merger with Eagleton that she is instrumental in. If she does go, Councilman Jamm (Jon Glaser) will likely dismantle her accomplishments. To add insult to injury, her co-workers have added a plaque for her to the founder’s statue with a quote from her reinforcing her dedication to the place. How can she leave?

Yet, on the other hand, Leslie is a dynamic player that must keep growing. City Council didn’t work out for her, but she can’t just go back to the local Parks Department. For her to advance, she has to leave the small pond she’s been swimming in. Her husband, Ben (Adam Scott), is supportive, but also helps her to realize this, knowing she won’t be happy if she passes this up. Leslie can’t stay stagnant. She needs to step up and tackle the next challenge, and I’m not just talking about the triplets she is pregnant with. She has to accept the job, a huge promotion that she has worked hard for and deserves. Even Michelle Obama (herself) weighs in on the decision, urging Leslie to take the job.

“Moving Up” has the perfect solution when Leslie tells Grant Larson (Brady Smith) that she wants the position, but wants to move the office to Pawnee. Parks and Recreation doesn’t take the easy way out and just drop this bit and move on. Instead, in true Leslie fashion, she creates a strong argument as to why this is a good idea, complete with thick binder, and in the face of the evidence, Grant has to agree. No one can stand in the way of Leslie when she sets her mind on something, pursuing it doggedly. She gets to stay in the place she loves and perform her dream job.

The closing moments of “Moving Up” are set three years later, Leslie running a busy department and firing an inept employee (Mad Men‘s Jon Hamm). I really hope the next season of this show sticks to that new timeline, as there are hints of an event set up here that provide a dangling mystery. Though, if it starts just a little earlier, Hamm’s cameo, as funny as it is, might actually feel justified, providing an opportunity for Hamm to be a recurring player in season seven.

How else could one ask for Parks and Recreation to end? Leslie gets everything she wants and everyone is happy. This is how it should be.

The rest of “Moving On” is a love letter to the town and the people that populate it, too. The concert itself features a number of terrific musicians, many with ties to the series, and a huge tribute to Li’l Sebastian. Local celebrities, recurring characters, participate, too, and then all head to Tom’s Bistro, which Tom (Aziz Ansari) has made a success, allowing Tom to rub his accomplishment in Dr. Saperstein’s (Henry Winkler) face in front of his children (Jenny Slate and Ben Schwartz), bringing Tom’s arc full circle.

Others get their due, as well. Ron (Nick Offerman) finally defeats Tammy’s (Megan Mullally) hold over him, happy with his new family and loving it, and publicly comes out as saxophone player Duke Silver. Andy (Chris Pratt) gets to reunite with his band, whom he misses. April (Aubrey Plaza) shows new-found maturity and is totally blissful in her marriage, which her and Andy decide to dissolve so they can wed all over again. Donna (Retta) is right in the thick of things, being her awesome self. Ben earns the town free Wi-Fi and is gifted the copyright to his successful game by the accounting firm that worships him. And Larry (Jim O’Heir), formerly Jerry, is now Terry and working for Leslie.

So, all is right in the world. Parks and Recreation has been treading water a bit this season, making recent episodes less compelling, but this is resolved in a single hour. These developments not only illustrate beautifully who the characters are and how far they’ve come, but propel them forward with new, interesting stories. I don’t know if this is done because the show’s fate was in doubt (it has now been renewed), but one could not have asked for a better season finale, highlighting what this show has accomplished thus far and really stoking enthusiasm for next year.

PARKS AND REC Bids Goodbye to "Ann and Chris"

Article first published as PARKS AND REC Bids Goodbye to "Ann and Chris" on TheTVKing.

NBC's Parks and Recreation bids farewell to two of its long-term main characters this week as "Ann and Chris" move away from Pawnee. In true Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) fashion, she throws her bestie Ann (Rashida Jones) thirty parties in one, and then there's an even more touching surprise on top of that. Meanwhile, the guys try to match Chris' (Rob Lowe) thoughtful parting gifts.

I am sad to see Ann and Chris go mostly because the other characters are sad to see them go. Ann has never been my favorite, but I'll miss Chris' eccentricities, which were always funny. Their roles have pretty much run their course, and it's wise to send them off now, before they go stale. Plus, their departure will affect the other characters, which should add more forward momentum to the rest of the season.

Leslie is the most upset because Ann is her best friend. For five years they've been nearly inseparable, always in each other's lives. Perhaps, though, this will be the boost Leslie needs to kick her career back into high gear, channeling her grief and extra energy into a campaign for another office. Or maybe she'll make a new best friend that isn't so much of an enabler to Leslie's craziness, though Leslie is a force of nature not easily swayed.

The parties are perfect for Leslie, but I even more enjoyed that Leslie's final gift to Ann is the ground breaking of the park that started their relationship. It's a nice way to tie things back together in the end, and exactly the sort of thing that Leslie would do for someone she cares so much about. The fact that a grump city official (Chris Bauer, True Blood) stands in their way, leading to several obstacles and the natural return of a few familiar faces in this important episode, only makes the end result mean more, and demonstrates the love she and Ann have for one another.

April's (Aubrey Plaza) heartfelt farewell to Ann is much more toned down, as is appropriate, but shines through as a memorable moment, too. They've always shared their connection to Andy (Chris Pratt), which actually has stood between them, rather than bringing them together. But April is developing as a person and it's nice that she sees past the guy and can admit some small shred of emotional to Ann. Nice, too, that Ann understands April enough not to push her past her limits and be grateful for what she gets.

"Ann and Chris" is unusual because the guys and girls are, mostly, split up during the installment, a grouping the series doesn't do too often. But then, it always makes for an interesting dynamic when they do.

Donna (Retta) is part of neither grouping, unfortunately, but given the way the story plays out, that makes sense. She wouldn't really fit on the girls' mission, and she would also seem out of place with the boys, so for once, she just doesn't belong here. But she's still a fantastic character, and her goodbye butt squeeze to Chris is hilarious.

While traditionally men are less in touch with their feelings, and Parks and Recreation even has Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman), the much-admired stereotype of this, the male side of "Ann and Chris" is just as moving as the female side. Chris gifts each of his male friends a special present that demonstrates how well he knows them. They chip in for a gift card for him, which they quickly feel bad about as not being personal enough and resolve to correct. Except for Ron, that is, who thinks his two handshakes are plenty.

Of course, Ben (Adam Scott) is the one that eventually saves the day, knowing Chris the best. And what he comes up with includes everyone else, especially Ron and Gary Jerry Larry (Jim O'Heir). So it works in ending this subplot appropriately for them all, with not a single person feeling left out.

The very end of "Ann and Chris," with Leslie telling Chris he's almost good enough for Ann, the whole group watching the couple drive away, and Ron offering Leslie copious amounts of breakfast food to numb her pain, is about as emotionally satisfying as Parks and Recreation has ever gotten. The whole half hour is a love letter to these characters, not just Ann and Chris, but the whole ensemble, and their love for each other. The last scene is perfect, and while I'm supremely glad this isn't a series finale, it's great that two important players are sent off right.

Parks and Recreation will return to NBC Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. EST after the Olympics.

PARKS AND REC Faces a "New Beginning"

Article first published as PARKS AND REC Faces a "New Beginning" on TheTVKing.

NBC's Parks and Recreation has made a lot of strides with its characters in the last year, many of them finding new purposes and new jobs, and some even planning to move away to start new lives. In "New Beginning," though, it's really only two characters who start something fresh, and one of them realizes that, while she thinks she can go back to her past, that past no longer exists.

Leslie (Amy Poehler) is the main character of Parks and Recreation, and most of the stories do revolve around her, with the rest of the cast supporting her. But that changed when Leslie when away and took a job on the City Council. Leaving the Parks Department behind, which she deserves credit for building into a functioning governing agency (according to Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman), who is a harsh critic of such things), everyone else was forced to move on, too. Which throws Leslie for a loop when, recalled from the council, she resumes her former job.

It's a little odd that there is still a job for Leslie to come back to. I would think she should have been replaced by now or the position eliminated. But then, as Ron would surely point out, government moves slowly, and Ron is certainly in no hurry to replace her. So I guess it sort of does make sense.

When Leslie last held this seat, she had to push everyone along. Ron hired slackers like Tom (Aziz Ansari) and April (Aubrey Plaza) because he preferred that nothing get done. Leslie understood that those two needed to be forced into accomplishing work, and found a way to get them to do so. Having been out of the office, she doesn't see that they maintained the efforts she made them rise to, even without her behind them anymore. This is a big realization for Leslie, and one that she's slow to come to.

What this means is that Leslie isn't needed here any more. She did the job, and now that job no longer needs done. Ron will let her stay so she can collect a pay check and because he cares about her, but Leslie will soon grow very restless with this step back, not fitting in, and her personality necessitating projects to pour her passion into.

I was a little disappointed when, at the start of "New Beginning," Leslie returned to her office, believing the series was resetting everything back to a status quo of a year or so ago. It's pleasing then, to see that this is very clearly not the case, the plot existing to demonstrate the growth of the characters and as a way station until Leslie launches into her next arc. It's a touching pause and evaluation.

Ben (Adam Scott) is the other person starting a new job as he takes over as city manager. Used to being the "hammer," he now finds himself trying to fill Chris' (Rob Lowe) friendly shoes, and does have trouble being mean to the people under him who have come to be his friends. Which leaves him totally befuddled when Andy (Chris Pratt), April, and Donna (Retta) haze him with an elaborate prank.

It's fun to see Ben out of his element, struggling to find an equilibrium. Since he has worked for city government before, it isn't immediately obvious just how hard it will be for him to start this new position, it requiring things from him he hasn't given before, a fresh outlook rather than a repeat of past gigs. The prank stuff is not only funny, checking the laughter box for the sitcom this week (especially when he tries to retaliate), but also very revealing about Ben's character.

Lastly, Ann (Rashida Jones) and Chris debate whether to get married or not. They only start thinking about it because of a casual remark from Larry (Jim O'Heir), so should they really be jumping into something that neither was considering? "New Beginning" forces them to figure out how they belong together, something the audience may still have been puzzling themselves, and tells us who they are as a couple. It's nice.

I am bothered that Jerry now seems to be permanently Larry. I admit, it was funny to learn that Jerry wasn't his real name and that the staff just calls him whatever they want. But I've gotten used to Jerry, and the changed name still throws me. I wish this had been the thing that Parks and Recreation recalled.

These wonderful character explorations are what makes Parks and Recreation more than just your average sitcom. While consistently struggling in the ratings, it has built itself into a beloved critical darling. These people are compelling, and their stories are authentic and entertaining. If you haven't been watching, please do. And if you have, encourage your friends to start tuning in, or we may not get a season six. This show deserves a season six. There's so much more that must be seen, especially concerning Leslie's career.

Parks and Recreation airs Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

BURNING LOVE Burns Again

Article first published as BURNING LOVE Burns Again on TheTVKing.com

E! presents the second season of Burning Love beginning this week. Initially a web series, Burning Love is a parody of reality dating competitions, like a comedy version of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette, with what is a likely a similar scripted to improv ratio. Contestants of one gender compete for the love of a single person of the opposite sex.

Watching seasons one and two, a viewer would be forgiven for thinking there have been at least four cycles of Burning Love. Season one began by profiling the winner of the previous year (which wasn't actually filmed), and in the continuity of the show, another season takes place between one and two, subtitled Hot for Teacher, which again, was never made. This confuses things a little bit, and sent me running to the internet to make sure I hadn't missed anything. But it's hard to blame the writers for extending the mythology without wasting our time with filler.

In season two, the main woman whose affection men are competing for is Julie Gristlewhite (June Diane Raphael, NTSF:SD:SUV), a dental hygienist who was in season one, and was last seen in a lesbian relationship. Ditching her partner, Carly (Janet Varney, The Legend of Korra), Julie is ready to try the penis again, and the producers are happy to oblige.

Host Bill Tundle (Michael Ian Black, Ed) is back, as is the house and set up. While season two definitely has some differences in the way the initial premiere unfolds, there is also consistency in the structure of the show and some of the players. This provides a satisfying through-line for the series.

Many of the faces are familiar, too. Damien (Adam Scott) was a therapist in the first cycle and is now competing, but that's not exactly what I'm talking about. Basically, most of the actors are either stars or major guest stars in projects such as Childrens Hospital and NTSF:SD:SUV, two Cartoon Network shows that also trace their roots to the web. Raphael, Ken Marino, Rob Huebel, Martin Starr, Nick Kroll, Malin Akerman, Michael Cera, and others have that connection. Various other cast members have worked with this group in other projects, too, such as The League, Party Down, and The Greatest Event in Television History.

Perhaps I'm wrong, but seeing all these people pop up alongside one another over and over again makes me think they're an extremely talented troupe who weren't getting enough work and so starting creating some of their own, inviting friends they made along the way to participate, constantly expanding their call sheet. Honestly, I think of them as doing their own, both more and less cohesive, multi-platform version of Saturday Night Live, and I'm loving it.

Burning Love, like all of those I've mentioned in the past couple of episodes is hilarious! From Bill mispronouncing Julie's name and the word 'gentlemen,' to Julie throwing herself all over a disinterested Blaze (Ryan Hansen, Veronica Mars), to Teddy (Nick Thune, Knocked Up) repeating the same song lyrics, to Khris (Nick Kroll) getting tossed out for being drunk, to Allison (Colin Hanks, The Good Guys) defending his name, there is a constant string of laughs packed into the half hour. The best bit may have even been the show-within-a-show's last minute minimal effort to add diversity to the cast. I can't wait to see more.

Burning Love airs Wednesdays at 10:30 p.m. ET on E!, and more webisodes are available through Yahoo.

DRUNK HISTORY Now Weekly

Article first published as DRUNK HISTORY Now Weekly on TheTVKing.

Drunk History began on funnyordie.com, was featured on HBO's Funny Or Die Presents, and now has its own weekly half hour on Comedy Central. The premise is simple enough - Derek Waters (Hall Pass) gets a person who knows a bit about American history drunk and has them tell a tale. Actors perform the inebriated bits, with the drunk voice dubbed over them.

Drunk History works for a couple of reasons. One, the people participating know what they are talking about, so while they tell things in an amusing way, there is some truth involved, too. Two, the segments are kept short, with Watergate, Lincoln's assassination, and Elvis meeting Nixon all in the first half hour. Third, the costumes and sets are pretty good. Not realistic-makeup good, but not made-in-someone's-basement cheesy, either, making the look work well. And it's edited, so we get some tangents, but the plots remain cohesive enough to follow.

There are lots of recognizable faces participating in Drunk History. In this first episode, Jack Black (Scott of Rock) is Elvis, Bob Odenkirk (Breaking Bad) is Nixon and 30 Rock's Jack McBrayer is Nixon's aide, Stephen Merchant (Extras) is Lincoln, Fred Willard (Modern Family) is Deep Throat, Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation) and Will Forte (Saturday Night Live) are the Booth brothers, Jonathan Ames (Bored to Death) plays father Booth, and Nathan Fielder (Nathan For You) portrays Woodward. I think having all of these people involved lends the proceedings credibility.

It's also really funny. The narratives are delivered in a whimsical, light-hearted way. It's enjoyable (for a limited amount of time, such as a half hour) to watch people who are wasted, and by taking the words they say and acting them out with pizazz, it's a lot like hanging out with your friends, only more visual.

I could do without the puking on the floor, though I guess that's a necessary risk, as Slightly Tipsy History wouldn't be nearly as good. But the cookie breaks and the dialogue delivery are wonderful. This is an idea that has proven popular in other venues, so it's nice to see it get its due now.

Drunk History airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET on Comedy Central.

Parks and Recreation goes to Washington

Grade: 86%

NBC’s PARKS AND RECREATION picks up its fifth season months later with “Ms. Knope Goes to Washington.” Ben (Adam Scott) has been working in Washington D.C. with April (Aubrey Plaza) as his assistant. Leslie (Amy Poehler) and Andy (Chris Pratt) go for a visit. April and Andy’s reunion is so intense it should not be shown on camera. But Leslie finds the city she dreamed about less than satisfactory when faced with real politics and the realization that Pawnee, Indiana (one of several Pawness in the country), the place she has poured her heart and soul into, just doesn’t register to these people.

It’s disheartening to see Leslie so upset. She can be a bit cartoonish, to be sure, so it’s kind of interesting to see how such a person deals with reality. Not well, it turns out. Leslie is a very strong person, but in this unfamiliar landscape, missing Ben, who barely has time for her visit, she’s a bit more emotionally vulnerable than normal. Which could by why she snaps at several senators (Barbara Boxer, Olympia Snowe, and John McCain, playing themselves).

What will it take to restore Leslie’s spirit? Well, that’s already well on its way. She may not be able to affect Washington, but there’s still plenty she can do back home in Pawnee, and that’s what matters to her. She finds purpose again.

But there will still be a lingering sadness until Ben gets his tushy back to her, which has to happen sooner, rather than later. The only thing that remains to be seen is how it happens.

Now that Leslie is no longer in the Park Department, actual responsibilities fall to Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman). Chris (Rob Lowe) tasks him with continuing Leslie’s annual thank you barbeque for the staff. Ron sees this as an opportunity to teach the folks what a real barbeque is supposed to be about (the meat, hilariously named Tom), and ends up ruining the entire event. Though, later, with Chris scolding him as only Chris can for the disappointing outcome, Ron makes it up to his team.

One wonders how the Parks Department ran before Leslie arrived on the scene. Ron clearly has his figurehead position in the town, but with the unofficial leader who got things done having moved on, Ron has to step up and actually be in charge. This is not his comfort zone, as he doesn’t like dealing with people. It takes Chris to make Ron realize that the barbeque has a purpose, and isn’t just a frivolous afternoon. Ron can be a softie, but it’s not his default position. There will be a big adjustment here.

It is odd that Leslie and April have not been replaced yet, or that the Parks Department hasn’t fallen apart completely. Arguably the only two employees who do much, what’s going on now that they’re absent? In this episode, “Ms. Knope Goes to Washington,” that is glossed over. Surely it will be a major plot point in future installments, though.

It looks like PARKS AND RECREATION is finally wrapping up the Anne (Rashida Jones) / Tom (Aziz Ansari) romance this week, thankfully. While both deserve to find love, it just doesn’t feel right to see them together. They fake it throughout the half hour, because if they don’t, Tom loses $1000 to Donna (Retta). But it is only an act. Now that that’s over with, it’s time for them to both to move on and find someone more appropriate. Is the casting call out yet? If not, get on it please!

Overall, “Ms. Knope Goes to Washington” is a fun, solid entry, but a tad disappointing as a season premiere. It puts events back to normal, but it fails to make any serious movement on the lingering questions (Will Ben and Leslie stay together? What is the new level of achievement in the Park Department?). A few famous faces doesn’t replace these fundamental issues. I’ve come to expect a bit more from the series, but if it hadn’t been a premiere, I probably would be relatively satisfied, so it feels as little unfair to complain much.

PARKS AND RECREATION returns this Thursday to NBC.

Parks and Recreation election results are in!

NBC's Parks and Recreation has had a heck of a spring, as the characters work tirelessly to help Leslie (Amy Poehler) campaign for Pawnee City Council. It all comes down to this riveting series finale, as Pawnee citzens vote, and a winner is declared. Yep, it's Bobby Newport (Paul Rudd). But not so fast! A recount is triggered, and when the smoke clears, Leslie is, in fact, the ultimate victor!

It's kind of hard to believe that "Win, Lose, or Draw" finds Leslie making a career advancement. The city council members have played very little role in Parks and Recreation thus far, so it's not exactly a natural move within the confines of the show. However, considering Leslie's background and loyalty, it will not be surprising if Leslie makes the Parks Department a priority for the council, which would bring her into the circle of the rest of the characters on a regular basis.

There are also some gaps that are going to need filled. For one, Chris (Rob Lowe) needs to pick a new second in command, since Ron (Nick Offerman) turns down the job. This isn't entirely unexpected, given Ron's penchant to try to keep things as static as possible. He is already going to have to deal with replacing Leslie as his number two. He doesn't want to move offices and actually take on responsibility, too!

Who would be an appropriate successor for Leslie? April (Aubrey Plaza) seems a logical choice. She pretends not to care, but her character has proven her worth many times over. She would make a very different leader of the Parks Department than Leslie has been, but it could be an interesting change. If that is the way Parks and Recreation chooses to go, then April will still need to be replaced, too, leaving room for a new character.

Andy (Chris Pratt) considers a change in "Win, Lose, or Draw," too. While comforting April for the colossal mistake she makes, it comes out that Andy would like to be in law enforcement. Becoming a cop might be a dream too far for the lovable dolt, though maybe not, given some small towns' low standards. However, he could at least become a security guard, albeit a bumbling, ineffective one.

Ben (Adam Scott) also contemplates a move, deciding, with Leslie's encouragement, to accept a job working on a campaign with Jennifer (Kathryn Hahn, who could continue to recur since Free Agents was canceled) in Washington D.C. This is a big step, as Leslie and Ben's careers just happen to be taking off at the same time, in opposing directions. If Ben does well, what's to keep him from staying in the nation's capital, instead of returning home to Leslie? Ben would not be the first boyfriend Leslie has lost to an out-of-town job. But their romance is so sweet. Too bad Leslie is years away from running for national office. Perhaps in the final season...

Ann (Rashida Jones) resists Tom's (Aziz Ansari) attempts to get back together with her in "Win, Lose, or Draw." That is, until she gets drunk and agrees to move in with him. Despite Tom's declaration of no take backs when she sobers up, is there any chance that this will stick? Their romance has been weird from day one, and only gets odder as it continues. Ann is great as Leslie's best friend, but as that is a small, unimportant role, her character is continually beefed up with subplots. Unfortunately, the perfect story has not yet been found for her.

"Win, Lose, or Draw," besides foreshadowing many changes for Parks and Recreation going forward, is also highly amusing. Chris and Jennifer have lots of sex. Jerry (Jim O'Heir) loses track of time and forgets to vote for Leslie. Donna (Retta) fixes April's big disaster in three seconds flat. Chris wisely denies Jean-Ralphio (Ben Schwartz) a job. And Bobby not only doesn't understand the joke he makes when he declares publicly that he is voting for Leslie, he also needs Leslie's help to operate the voting booth equipment.

Parks and Recreation continues to be funny and sweet; realistic and full of dreams. Does anyone really believe Ben didn't write Leslie a concession speech? Probably not. But it's a drama-y sitcom about a group of people striving for the lives the want, and willing to work hard to get them, with a few laughs along the way. The evolution coming next season will only further enhance the world created here, and the show should have no problem continuing for years to come. As the only NBC Thursday night sitcom to get a full season order next year, at least so far (aging The Office has yet to be picked up), it'll have to continue to bring its A game, being the network lineup staple for the time being.

A final note. These past few weeks, extended versions of Parks and Recreation have been available online. I highly recommend checking out these, on average, five minutes longer episodes, as they give more jokes to the delightful supporting cast, who deserve the extra screen time. Hopefully, this trend will continue next year.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

"Dave Returns" to Parks and Recreation

In this week's episode of NBC's Parks and Recreation, Leslie's (Amy Poehler) old flame, Dave (Louis C.K., Louie), comes to town. He is willing to help Leslie win an important endorsement in the police chief, but he'd also like to rekindle their romance. This doesn't sit well with Ben (Adam Scott), of course. Luckily for Ben, Leslie has no intention of going back to Dave. Also, Andy (Chris Pratt) works on Leslie's campaign song, and Tom (Aziz Ansari) tries to lock Ann (Rashida Jones) into a relationship.

Dave was a fantastic character on Parks and Recreation, and Leslie's first real love interest. It was so exciting when they got together, and depressing when Dave moved away. Plus, Louis C.K. is a great comedian, with a terrific series of his own on FX. It's exciting that he found the time to return to Parks and Recreation in "Dave Returns," given his busy schedule.

However, Leslie is with Ben now, and that relationship, having been given more attention and development, is now the priority. No one wants to see them split up, even by an old, beloved boyfriend. Dave is a great recurring character, and hopefully C.K. will find the time to do some more guest spots. Perhaps if Dave gets the Chief of Police job, it will give him an excuse. That seems unlikely, though, considering that "Dave Returns" ties everything up nicely between him and Leslie. Still, one can wish.

Andy's story is satisfying. Andy often contributes the least on group projects. He tries pretty darn hard to be valuable, but his intelligence is low, and his skills are limited. Music is his forte, and having him work on Leslie's song is a perfect use of the character. Yet, he still struggles. Which isn't unusual for a creative type. Ron (Nick Offerman) is the one who, anonymously, comes in and saves him, adding a saxophone track, without revealing that they share a love of song. It's a cool story, using characters the way that they should be used, without venturing outside of who the people in the show are at their core.

And who would have thought that perfectionist Christ (Rob Lowe) was so, so, so bad at singing? Hilarious! Rob Lowe really goes for the terribleness with gusto!

Also sticking to his defined self is Tom. Tom lets a little sincerity show last week with Ann, which sees them end up on a date together. Tom enthusiastically wants to keep acting like his over confident, somewhat jerky and creepy, self, putting the facade back up, post-date. Ann only wants to be with him if he brings the tone a little lower. She does eventually agree to a second date, but only after he wears her down.

This is a delicate balance. For Tom to be worthy of Ann, he must find his true self. Yet, the character he presents is very enjoyable for the viewing audience. And fans also want Tom to find love. So what happens is that some sort of middle ground must be struck. Tom needs to stay funny, but also not be so insane that Ann cannot be with him. These two characters work well together, but only if things are handled correctly.
Watch Parks and Recreation Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

MORE: If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

"Citizen Knope" demands satisfaction from Parks and Recreation

     "Citizen Knope" is the aftermath of the trial last week's Parks and Recreation on NBC, which finds Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) suspended for her relationship with Ben (Adam Scott). Leslie cannot relax and enjoy her (paid) time off, and gets even more frustrated when her campaign staff quits due to low poll numbers. So she forms PCP, a political action committee, and seeks funding for Pawnee's parks as a private citizen. Chris (Rob Lowe) soon grows tired of the annoyance, and gets Leslie reinstated. As this goes on, Ben looks for a new job after his resignation in disgrace, and realizes he wants to try something fun, rather than take another boring accountant position.

     "Citizen Knope" is unbelievably hilarious. From Ben interviewing to be an accountant to an accounting firm, to Jean-Ralphio's (Ben Schwartz) return, to April's (Aubrey Plaza) Marshmellow Ron Swanson, there are plenty of great jokes. It's hard not to crack up when Andy (Chris Pratt) eats Donna's (Retta) silver-painted M&Ms, and Ann (Rashida Jones) has to tell him to throw up. Jerry (Jim O'Heir) is delighted to recieve socks for Christmas. Tom (Aziz Ansari) makes a word cloud from Leslie's e-mails. A great Easter egg is when The Guild's Robin Thorsen pops up in a too-small role as a mother who ignores her children in favor of her passions. Sound familiar, Guildies?

     But this week's Parks and Recreation also an emotional triumph. Leslie gives the perfect gifts to each member of the staff, as well as Chris. Ron (Nick Offerman) decides everyone must pull together to come up with something to give Leslie worthy of her, a high bar indeed. He suggests a model of the Parks Department that he can build, and Ann takes it a step further, wanting the structure made out of gingerbread. Ron reluctantly consents, but can't build it, so Andy takes over. Everyone contributes, and it becomes a very sweet (pun intended) present that Leslie really enjoys.

     Even more moving, though, the staff pledges to run Leslie's campaign. All of the things that she has done for them over the years has made them all adore her as much as viewing audiences, and they willingly give up their free time to help run a sinking ship. Leslie is choked up, and those at home should be too, especially as Ron announces his new job title, "Any Other Damn Thing You Need." It is a display of just how Leslie impacts lives, and the good that she does. Despite overwhelming odds against her (for now), it seems certain that Leslie is destined to win her office. Which would fundamentally change Parks and Recreation. But growth can be a good thing, and it would not mean her leaving the series, so there's really no argument against it.

     Chris does seem to feel a little guilty for getting Leslie suspended. Much of last week's trial on Parks and Recreation is very clearly Chris reacting because he feels personally betrayed. He is upset that Ben and Leslie are not up front with him about their relationship for a very long time. It's understandable, but then, so are the reasons that they keep things a secret. However, with a little time to get used to the idea, and Ben removing himself as a factor at the office, which must also hurt, as he works closely with Chris, Chris begins to come around. It isn't clear in "Citizen Knope," but it looks like Chris gets the suspension lifted early. He realizes Leslie is a very valuable person and should not be so severely punished, as suspension is for her, for such a small mistake.

    Parks and Recreation, one of the best sitcoms currently running, will retun to NBC in January.

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     To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

Parks and Recreation builds the "Smallest Park"

     On this week's episode of NBC's Parks and Recreation, Ben (Adam Scott) tells Leslie (Amy Poehler) that their current project, building Indiana's "Smallest Park," will be their last working together. This is because, after their break up, it is too hard for Ben to spend time with Leslie, even in a professional capacity. Leslie rebels, stirring controversy among Pawnee's residents, and when that doesn't work, lying to create some just so she can continue spending time with him. Of course, Ben sees through this, and vows to just quit. Ann (Rashida Jones) helps Leslie to see that she needs to consider Ben's feelings, too, not just her own. Leslie talks to Ben sincerely, and the two decide to restart their relationship.

     The drama of Ben and Leslie has many ups and downs. Leslie and Ben are very much in love, which is a major reason why Ben decides to settle in Pawnee, rather than continue his habit of traveling around Indiana for work. Leslie, however, ends things so she can run for office, as Ben is technically her boss, and their affair constitutes a breach of ethics. It isn't hard to see why Leslie might choose her career over a guy, given her long history of working towards the goal of public office. But it's still sad. In "Smallest Park," Leslie changes her mind, showing she values Ben more than any job.

     What will that mean for Leslie's campaign? Will she be force to abandon it? One might think a small town like Parks and Recreation's Pawnee wouldn't object to such an innocent relationship, where no favors are traded. Yet, the residents are shown to argue over inane details in many previous episode, and so it seems likely that choosing Ben could very likely cost Leslie her race. Where will she go from there, though? If her political life is ruined, can she find fulfillment in her personal arena? Will she resent Ben for costing her her dreams? Might this decision be, despite the best of intentions, a mistake?

     One solution may be for Ben to quit his job. Yes, he has already sacrificed for Leslie by moving to Pawnee. But if he truly loves her, he will know she cannot be whole without her public service career. Surely, Chris (Rob Lowe) could find Ben another position within the city government that will not present a conflict of interest for Leslie? Sure, Leslie should make sacrifices for Ben, too, but not giving up her lifelong ambition.

     While this is going on, Chris tasks Tom (Aziz Ansari) and Jerry (Jim O'Heir) with redesigning the Parks and Recreation department logo. Tom, predictably, goes overboard, wanting to do much more than change a simple font. Jerry, on the other hand, is content with his position, and simply wants to do as asked. In the end, Tom is inspired by Jerry, something very unexpected, to go with a special "limited edition" retro look, complete with merchandise. It's actually a fair compromise, and one that goes over well. Could this be the beginning of a more regular partnership for Tom and Jerry? They could learn much from each other, as Tom needs to be realistic, and perhaps Jerry could have a bit more fire under his bottom.

     Finally, Ron (Nick Offerman) and April (Aubrey Plaza) help Andy (Chris Pratt) audit college courses, searching for one he should take. April thinks Andy should take something easy, which mirrors her outlook on life, while Ron is in favor of Andy bettering himself, reflecting his own worldview, to some extent. Despite a few missteps, as Andy doesn't really understand the names of some of the classes, he finds one he likes. Unfortunately, he cannot afford the class. But Ron is willing to pay, inspired and moved by Andy's enthusiasm. Andy is nothing like Ron, but for some reason the two connect fairly well. It may be interesting to see how this develops, going forward, and if Ron ends up helping to spark loftier ambitions in Andy.

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Parks and Recreation introduces "I'm Leslie Knope"

     NBC's Parks and Recreation premiere, "I'm Leslie Knope," finds Leslie (Amy Poehler) fumbling about breaking up with Ben (Adam Scott), something that becomes urgent when a disturbing incident kicks her campaign into high gear. Said incident is an e-mailed penis photo, which Ann (Rashida Jones) diagnoses as ill. This soon leads to Ann's inbox filling up with more and more genitalia pictures. Ron (Nick Offerman) hides in the woods from Tammy One (Patricia Clarkson, Six Feet Under, Shutter Island), who is going to audit him. April (Aubrey Plaza) takes over for Ron, and helps Andy (Chris Pratt) move up in the world.

     Leslie is faced with an incredibly difficult choice: Ben or her career. She isn't unique in having to make that decision, but it's heart breaking to watch her go through it. Technically, Ben is her boss, even though they have the chemistry of equals. Leslie's decision to run for office, though, has been a long time dream, finally come true. She cannot possibly give that up, after she has worked so hard. The good news is, if (when?) she wins, Ben will no longer be her boss, and they can be together. Right?

     Ben loves Leslie very, very much. How else can one explain the grace with which he steps aside when she cannot bring herself to end things? He touchingly gives her her first campaign button, knowing just how important it is for Leslie to hold an elected position, likely the first of many. Not many guys could make such a noble sacrifice, and this only makes Ben more worthy of her affection.

     Ron and Leslie's relationship has grown into something just as sweet, in an entirely different way. When Leslie gets stuck, she runs to Ron. He has confidence in her, and supports her. Even when Leslie moves out of the Parks and Recreation department, she will probably always return to her mentor. Not only that, but their relationship goes both ways. Through Leslie, Ron realizes he must return to confront Tammy One.

     Which may be a blueprint for future seasons. After all, even is Leslie loses this election, which could happen, though shouldn't, she will run again. Being in city government means she can still be in the building and in the cast. Surely, an elected Leslie would find plenty of time to get involved in Parks and Recreation activities. This also opens up higher positions for other cast members to move, and would be a good development, all around.

     Andy is already making progress, as he takes Tom's (Aziz Ansari) old job as Leslie's assistant. April makes that happen, and proves her leadership skills. Does this mean that when Leslie moves on, April may take her job? Andy can be an assistant, but he could never handle what Leslie does. April probably wouldn't work as hard as Leslie, but she does have the gumption to make things happen.

     Tom remains in the cast, stopping by frequently in "I'm Leslie Knope" to drop off branded material for his new business, Entertainment 720. Will this continue, or will Tom seek to return to the Parks and Recreation fold? Considering the only job for him at the moment might be shoe shiner, let's hope that Tom can make it in the private sector. After all, the city government has plenty of use for event planners, or whatever it is that Tom is / will be doing.

     Parks and Recreation also stars Rob Lowe, Retta, and Jim O'Heir. The series airs Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. on NBC.

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     To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

Parks and Recreation - "Li'l Sebastian"

     NBC presented two back to back episodes of Parks and Recreation this Thursday to end the season. While they were presented as two parts, they were actually stand alone episodes that had little to do with each other. This review is only about the second half hour, "Li'l Sebastian." Please click here for the review on the first half, "The Bubble."

     In "Li'l Sebastian", local celebrity miniature horse Li'l Sebastian dies, and the parks department throws him a funeral. Chris (Rob Lowe), especially, is deeply moved, facing his own mortality after a bad diagnosis from the doctor. Ron (Nick Offerman) finds out about Ben (Adam Scott) and Leslie (Amy Poehler), and soon, he isn't the only one. Tom (Aziz Ansari) helps organize the funeral event, and realizes his true calling may not be in government work. Tom isn't the only one who considers a career move, as Leslie is approached to run for public office. And both of Ron's ex-wives return, presumably to cause lots of trouble.

     It is hard to comprehend how Leslie can even consider running for public office considering her secret relationship with Ben, who is technically her boss, hanging over her. She obviously has no intention of ending the relationship, but in this episode alone, a couple of people find out about the pair. Leslie is many things, but discrete is not one of them. Should she make a go for an election without first ending things with Ben, she is doomed to fail.

     Ron once more shows that he cares by trying to caution Leslie about the path she is on. He wants her to have a great career, and knows her professional life would be ruined by a scandal. Government service is the most important thing to Leslie, so it shows how much she cares about Ben that she is willing to risk losing it over him. Ron is a voice of reason, taking a rare chance to get involved in one of his employee's personal lives. Given how unusual that is, Leslie should consider his advice.

     It is impossible to imagine Parks and Recreation without Tom. This leads to the conclusion that his business with Jean-Ralphio (Ben Schwartz, Undercovers) cannot last, and something will bring Tom back to the parks department early next season. If Ansari is not returning, the series will be deeply and negatively affected. Considering no news outlet has reported Ansari quitting, it seems a highly unlikely scenario.
     Chris and Ann (Rashida Jones) are not over! That is the message being sent in "Li'l Sebastian." Faced with his mortality because of a minor ailment, unheard of for the super-healthy Chris, he realizes he wants companionship. Ann is there to comfort him, and longing glances make it obvious they both are hoping for a rekindling. They are not alone, as many fans would like to see that development, too. It is probable a Chris / Ann reunion is on the docket for this coming fall.

     There can be no better cliffhanger than the return of Ron's first ex-wife Tammy (not yet cast). Ron has been plagued by his second Tammy (Offerman's real life spouse, Megan Mullally), but seeing Tammy #2 panic and flee at the appearance of Tammy #1 sends chills down the spine. Without ever having been seen on screen, Tammy #1 is now a serious, eerie presence, and it will be hard to wait for the return of Parks and Recreation for the simple reason of anticipation of meeting her.


     Parks and Recreation has been given a fourth season and will return in the fall to NBC.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Click here for all of my Current Season Reviews. 

     To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

Article first published as TV Review: Parks and Recreation - "Li'l Sebastian" on Blogcritics.

Parks and Recreation - "The Bubble"

     NBC presented two back to back episodes of Parks and Recreation this Thursday to end the season. While they were presented as two parts, they were actually stand alone episodes that had little to do with each other. This review is only about the first half hour, "The Bubble." Please click here for the review on the second half, "Li'l Sebastian."

     In "The Bubble," Leslie (Amy Poehler) and Ben (Adam Scott) try to enjoy their secret relationship, but it is complicated when Ben meets Leslie's mother, Marlene (Pamela Reed, United States of Tara). At first, Marlene does not like Ben at all, thinking he is too much of a push over. After Leslie coaches Ben, he not only reverses Marlene's impression, but actually attracts her advances. At the same time, Chris (Rob Lowe) drastically reorganizes the parks department, giving everyone a lot more responsibility.

     Ben and Leslie cannot keep sneaking around forever. While it may be exciting to them now, it could seriously hurt both of their careers. While Chris mostly appears nice in previous episodes, he proves he can easily put business first when necessary in "The Bubble." As such, they cannot expect leniency when Chris finds out about the two of them, and eventually, he will find out.

     That being said, the story with Marlene is very funny. Leslie and her mother are far more alike than either will admit, and by Leslie coaching Ben, he becomes more attractive to both women. Leslie and her mother have been shown to clash, but they do care about each other, and Marlene shows real love when she approves of Leslie's relationship. Ben earns her respect, and as far as Leslie's family is concerned, the two are free to have a future.

     Chris clearly has just been waiting all of this time to settle in before making the big changes. In "The Bubble," the waiting is over. Chris is hired by Pawnee to do a job, so it is hard to blame him for trying to make the parks department more efficient. He manages to remain a likeable character while affirming he is not a new friend, but actually in charge of the others.

     Tom (Aziz Ansari) and Andy's (Chris Pratt) foray onto the fourth floor is hilarious, and not just for the jokes. The two have completely different outlooks on life, and that is highlighted as they venture into a scary situation. Tom's normally easy charm deserts him when taken out of his element, but Andy's optimism perseveres. While sometimes the two seem somewhat similar, they are now exposed to not be at all.

     Jerry (Jim O'Heir) and April (Aubrey Plaza) also have very different reactions to being given more responsibility. While Jerry cracks under pressure, April is still able to slack off and enjoy her job. She is a good assistant for Ron (Nick Offerman) for a reason, and that shines through as she zooms around on her portable work station, not worrying about any of the stuff she should be doing. While Jerry changes, April doesn't. This also highlights Andy and April's compatibility, since they both can roll with the punches without too much stress.

     Finally, Ron is the one who shows some real heart, something hinted at more and more recently, despite his gruff exterior. Knowing his department is unhappy with Chris's new procedures, Ron willingly self-sacrifices for the others. He endures misery to protect his staff, exhibiting real loyalty. Ron may only care about a few people, but the employees in his department qualify as those few.


     Parks and Recreation has been given a fourth season and will return in the fall to NBC.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Click here for all of my Current Season Reviews.

     To purchase Parks and Recreation DVDs and streaming episodes, please click here.

Article first published as TV Review: Parks and Recreation - "The Bubble" on Blogcritics.