I'm on another rewatch of a TV show lately, this time Parks and Recreation. Created by the same people who adapted The Office for America, it's another mockumentary-style workplace comedy. It follows the Parks department of fictional Pawnee, Indiana
The first couple season are a bit rough, as they were still finding their footing and figuring out the characters. It really starts to shine once Christ Traeger and Ben Wyatt show up at the end of season two. The relationship between them and Parks deputy director, Leslie Knope, is contentious at first since they come in to audit the city and ultimately shut the government down. But as they integrate into the community, they fully round out the ensemble. Ben and Leslie eventually develop a romantic relationship and become the true heart of the show. Although, it is truly an ensemble, with each character having their moments to shine and all of their relationships being fully formed.
Throughout each season, you see the town and it's people grow. People fall in love, get married, and start families. Leslie embarks on her journey towards her political career goals. Businesses are started and businesses fail.
Overall the show is heartwarming, funny, and a bit silly. There are absurd names (you can hear co-creator Michael Schur talk about them on an episode of Amy Poehler's podcast) such as: Trodd Frankensteip, Gretzky-Susan Pelligrino, and Typhoon Montalban. There's even a delightful mini horse named Lil' Sebastian.
If you're looking for a show that's heartwarming and funny, especially when you need a good pick-me-up, Parks is a great option!
