Parks and Recreation - TV Fanatic

Bradley Whitford to Guest Star on West Wing-Inspired Episode of Parks and Recreation

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:01:09 EST

With Louis CK on his way back to Pawnee next Thursday night, we have some more exciting Parks and Recreation casting news:

Bradley Whitford will guest star on an upcoming episode as a councilman who bears more than a slight resemblance to the actor's most famous character, Josh Lyman on The West Wing.

In fact, Executive Producer Michael Schur tells The Huffington Post that the title of the March episode - "Live Ammo" - is based on a line of dialogue from a West Wing episode, one actually uttered by Parks regular Rob Lowe during his stint on that Emmy-winning drama.

Sadly, though, Lowe will not share any scene with former co-star Whitford.

As for the election itself, Schur said the results will be revealed on the season four finale.

"Since we came up with the idea to have [Leslie] run, we’ve spent a part of every single week discussing the pros and cons of having her winning and her losing," Schur said. "And there are many to both situations. And so we’ve chosen a path that I think maximizes the pros and minimizes the cons."

Parks and Recreation Review: The Introduction of... Tann?!?

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:14:08 EST

Just when I think I have Parks and Recreation all figured out, it throws me a curveball and I strike out again.

Yes, "Operation Ann" did the unthinkable: Ann and Tom decided to go out for drinks. Granted, no one knows what happened from there, other than Ann telling Tom he’s on thin ice. No matter where things go, at least Ann finally got to do something. She’s been flapping aimlessly around in the wind ever since Ben took over her spot in Leslie’s life.

And since Ron and Ann aren’t busy fixing anything, this pairing will have to do. Still, there’s potential here for an absolute bust, and while I hope that doesn’t happen, I’m not exactly going to put a lot of faith in it. Let’s be honest: Tom is still Tom. Unless we can see some real honest to God character growth and a different personality once in a while, Tom is going out on the first swing. Ann just won’t put up with it for long, and I wouldn’t blame her.

The best story by far, however, was the scavenger hunt for Ben, Ron and Andy. It’s so far out of Ron’s character for him to like something so normal and innocent. Ron’s sheer enthusiasm and giggling for the activity almost felt like Parks had decided to do their own “what if” episode like Grey’s Anatomy this week. But as time went on and Ron became even more invested in it, the more natural it felt to his character.

Chris, still in an emotional tailspin after his breakup with Milly, actually got to do something fun with that heart-breaking pain: be a DJ for Pawnee’s Valentine’s Day Dance. While I’m still pretty on the “give Chris the boot bandwagon,” I will admit that giving him something other than be hyper peppy was very much welcomed.

The more I think about it, the more that turns out to be my biggest gripe about Chris (and Tom to an extent): he’s very rarely changing and is consistently on the same wavelength. That would be fine for a character that pops in once in a while (like Oren!), but he’s here every week, just being the same dude. Which would be fine if Chris was more endearing than annoying.

So if Chris wants to be the world’s most depressing DJ for a few more weeks, I’m all for it.

Speaking of character growth: hello, April! Has maturity finally set in for her and her marriage to Andy? First, she’s nice to Chris last week, and here she helps Ann just decide to go have some fun with Tom after watching them together. It looks like her marriage, while not in trouble, is definitely entering its next phase. Both April and Andy mentioned quirks and things the other does with some definite displeasure.

Other thoughts: Leslie’s love of the cryptex is downright awesome, and I, too, loved The Da Vinci Code.

The Bulge makes a comeback, and now all I can picture is Ron as a bear (bear cub?).
I love how comfortable Ben and Leslie are around each other, and how alike their thinking is. Willing to blow off their date for a chance to enact a little revenge on Chris and Ann.
Leslie’s love names for Ann never disappoint. Oh Ann, you beautiful spinster.

What did you think of the episode? Tell us in the comments and be sure to vote on some of your favorite quotes as well!

Parks and Recreation Review: Bowling for a Vote

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:04:14 EST

Parks and Recreation went back to its roots on "Bowling for Votes," as Leslie went on yet another crusade over one tiny little detail.

Yes, Leslie tried her darnedest to win over Bowling Guy, complete with the color-coded and organized binder. The minute Leslie showed off that binder we all knew she wasn’t messing around.

Much to Ron’s dismay, however, we were thrown a curve ball. Bowling Guy was a giant jerk and called Leslie a bitch, multiple times. I’m all for humor and curse words, but even so, this really sapped the humor and lightness out the show momentarily. It was stomach churning to verbally hit Leslie like that, and it shows that even in Pawnee politics is still a dirty game.

Thankfully, Ben punched Bowling Guy in the face (as awkwardly as possible), and Leslie’s primal, loving reaction to it made that terrible moment worth it. Watching Leslie be so proud of what Ben did for her, and make no excuses or apologies for him, is so Leslie. Leslie always defends her people, and that is what may win her this election. Leslie is a fighter and she’s not going to apologize for it. Watch out, Bobby Newport!

Naturally, our favorite supporting cast of characters were also in it to win it with bowling and donations.

Ron’s level of godliness waxed and waned tonight with his “no fuss” bowling. The ending with him trying out Tom’s granny style absolutely sealed the deal. Only Ron, after feeling the personal assault on his manliness, would try out such a strategy and bowl the perfect game.

But not even Ron could touch what April brought to “Votes.” Her outright mission to take down Chris and wish for his happiness to go away is something we’ve all wanted to see. But seeing Chris’ sad face after Millicent broke up with him? Not something I was ready for, and apparently April felt the same way because those were real, honest emotions she had as she gave him a hug. Yes! A hug!

Overall, Parks bowled another winning episode here. Be sure to head on over to the quotes page to vote on some of your favorite lines from tonight’s episode. Otherwise, you might just be a wizard and take our happiness away.

Parks and Recreation Review: Sexy Qualifications

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:56:01 EST

While I’m not entirely sure why NBC decided to make Paul Rudd such a big surprise in their promotion of "Campaign Ad," he blended so seamlessly into Parks and Recreation that it really didn’t matter in the end.

Rudd is the perfect “villain” for Leslie. Why? Because he’s not actually a villain. Bobby Newport is just the well off, privileged son of Sweetums. He’s not mean, or vindictive. Bobby has never had to work for anything in his life, other than saying “please.” He’s in uncharted territory with Leslie and isn’t sure what to do. Which is why he’s so charming and likeable.

And, as much as I would love to see Leslie get a little mean and play some dirty politics (which could still happen, who knows!), it’s better this way. Leslie is funnier when she’s trying to accomplish everything on her to-d- list with supreme positivity and happiness: Like stopping global terrorism, formally recognizing South Korea, forming a better Better Business Bureau and enacting the Raccoon Relocation Project.

Did I mention she’s not afraid to pull off the flying tackle? Put a ring on it already, Ben!

April and Andy continued their magical adventures into the world of adulthood by finally visiting the doctor(s), so they don’t have to come back “for like 10 years.” Because going to the doctor is like going to get your car tuned up!

I love the subplots that let April and Andy just be themselves without any adult supervision. I’ll have to go back and rewatch and decide if Andy’s multiple injuries top last week’s hilarious ice rink slapstick, but watching Andy sneeze his face into a wall while hanging his award was still a momentously funny bit. As was his running into an ambulance.

The Ron and Chris subplot I’m still wondering about because it offers plenty of future storytelling possibilities, but it was mostly flat for this week. Except for Ron wondering how on Earth he got from city hall to lunch with Chris, and it was even better because as an audience we were wondering the same thing.

As for the future possibilities, I like the idea of Ron enacting his ideas of government in a position that grants him those possibilities because it has the potential to expand our merry band of government employees as well as Pawnee citizens. But at the same time, this is Ron, he’d much rather hide out in his office. Unless they’re up for tweaking the Ron Swanson formula. But how does one improve on greatness though?

Overall, “Campaign Ad” was another fantastic episode of Parks and Rec, I just wish NBC name-dropped Rudd to try to boost viewers.

Other thoughts:

I love that the hammer is now permanently in Andy and April’s wall.
Ron’s automatically closing office doors make a comeback!
Ben, Jerry, and Tom can narrate a campaign ad for me anytime.

What did you think of the episode? Was there a particular promise of Leslie’s that you loved? Tell us in the comments and be sure vote on some of our favorite quotes from the episode!

Sean Hayes to Guest Star on Parks and Recreation

matt@tvfanatic.com (TV Fanatic Staff) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:47:09 EST

Parks and Recreation has added another hilarious name to its guest star list.

A few days after announcing that Paul Rudd would stop by Pawnee in order to run for city council against Amy Poehler's Leslie Knope, it's now been confirmed that Sean Hayes will also appear on a spring episode of TV's funniest show.

According to TV Line, the former Will & Grace star - who will likely star in his own NBC sitcom this fall - will portray a journalist who lands a major interview with Leslie. Don't expect it to go very well.

NBC is all about Will & Grace these days. Megan Mullally recurs on Parks and Recreation as Ron Swanson’s second ex-wife and will make an appearance this week on Up All Night, while Debra Messing anchors the network's next big hope for a significant hit, Smash. It premieres on February 6.

Parks and Recreation Review: Get On Your Feet, Leslie Knope

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:40:39 EST

So maybe "Comeback Kid" wasn’t quite what Leslie Knope had in mind for her great political return, but there was more than enough to love on this first new Parks and Recreation episode of 2012.

One of the things this sitcom does best is the long-payoff joke. I wasn’t sure where all of the lumber, carpet and three-legged dogs were going, but the culmination was better than I could have ever pictured. Watching the cast shuffle, slide and fall in that spectacular attempt to get to and - then literally shove - Leslie on to that stage might end up being one of my favorite bits this season.

Speaking of physical comedy: Who else wants Leslie to break dance more often?

The B plot with Chris and Ben put the kibosh, thankfully, on his unemployment rather quickly (sort of), but not before Chris diagnosed Ben with depression and cured him with his herbal belt. I’m a little disappointed Ben didn’t follow through with his calzone idea. Because, let’s be honest, calzones are pretty damn delicious, right?

Also, I’m hoping Parks has finally figured out the winning formula for Chris, in that a little of him goes a long way. Maybe he wouldn’t be as annoying if he had more than two character beats to his name, but I’m not holding out hope for that to happen anytime soon.

Finally, going back to Ben in terms of his unemployment, I’m very happy he wasn’t allowed to wallow by himself for very long. Ben as Leslie’s campaign manager keeps him together where all the real comedy is: with the rest of the cast. It also serves as a stopgap until Ben comes to terms with what his dream job really is: eventual return to the Parks Department.

Other thoughts:

“You beautiful tropical fish” is officially my go to opener to get people to do what I want.
An Herbal Belt sounds like something Nancy Botwin could use.
“Did he have three legs when you found him?” I’m glad Ben asked it.

What did you think of? What should Leslie's campaign slogan be? Sound off now and be sure to vote on your favorite quotes from this week’s episode!

People's Choice Awards Highlight of the Night: Parks and Recreation Got Talent

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:55:31 EST

Parks and Recreation did not win any People's Choice Awards last night.

But Amy Poehler and company still managed to steal the ceremony, appearing in a pre-taped skit with Kaley Cuoco and showing off their impressive hidden talents.

Did you know Chris Pratt can swallow swords? And Adam Scott can bash a computer with a hammer? Aziz Ansari can really wear a suit? And Rob Lowe can make any woman fall in love with him? Okay, you may have known that last one. But watch this hilarious video now and get psyched: Parks and Recreation is back with a new episode TONIGHT.

People's Choice Awards Skit: Parks and Recreation Talents

Paul Rudd (!!!!!!!) to Oppose Leslie on Parks and Recreation

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:57:06 EST

We were wrong. Parks and Recreation actually can get funnier.

Sources confirm to New York Magazine that Paul Rudd will guest star in at least one upcoming episode of the NBC sitcom as the candidate against whom Leslie will be running for office this spring.

The I Love You, Man/Role Models/Wanderlust star reportedly shot his scenes late last year and is likely to appear within the month.

Parks and Recreation, meanwhile, returns on Thursday with a new episode, one that will find Andy and April adopting a pet. It's already hilarious.

Parks and Recreation Midseason Report Card: A-

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:30:59 EST

TV Fanatic's Midseason Report Card series continues today with another comedic favorite.

As our staff looks back at what worked this fall and looks ahead to what we hope to see in 2012, our critics have handed out a B+ for Revenge, a B for Desperate Housewives and most recently, an A for New Girl.

Next up, Nick McHatton breaks down Parks and Recreation in all its hilarious glory ...

Best Character: Even in a cast as well rounded as this one Amy Poehler continues to shine as Leslie Knope. Poehler easily moves from funny to physical to serious and everything in between. Leslie is the person we all strive to be: hard working, compassionate, funny, and relatable.

Worst Character: Tom. Most of my general disdain for him has to do with the noose that was around his neck for most of the first half of the season: Entertainment 720. It took everything likeable about Tom and shoved it to the wayside, while putting a premium on his unlikeable qualities.

Best Episode: The first half of the season has been wonderful, and this was truly a very hard choice for me. That being said I'm going with "Smallest Park‚" even though it's slightly lower rated than "Treat Yo Self." The moment in the park between Ben and Leslie, and their willingness to put everything on the line, was one of the greatest moments of the show.

Worst Episode: "Ron & Tammys." While it's not a bad episode by any stretch, it is the weakest one of the season so far. The Leslie moments with Ron were fantastic, but there were too many E720 scenes, and saddling even the dry and funny Ben barely elevated that plot to bearable.

Most Interesting Development: Leslie polling at 1% after her scandal. It's such a unique way to get the entire Parks Department in Leslie's corner and out of the cheering squad. It's absolutely brilliant.

Biggest Surprise: Ben and Leslie deciding to go for a relationship after breaking up in the beginning of the season. I felt for the story it was a good decision to split them apart because the obstacles between them, while not great, were good for the show since their romance came together quickly in the prior season. Their split gave us the chance to root for them coming together, again, and see them have some time with the rest of the cast.

Hopes for 2012: I don't have many; Parks has been on a roll creatively so far. I hope its ratings can improve a little bit, and hopefully they will with 30 Rock as a lead in. The one thing I do hope to stop is this need for some characters to be off in some other job, so far it hasn't worked, and I don't have much hope that Ben looking for a job will pan out if he's hired outside of the Department.

Overall Grade: A-

Parks and Recreation Review: The Sport of Gift Giving

snickrz@gmail.com (Nick McHatton) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST

Good luck, 2012. With "Citizen Knope," Parks and Recreation concluded to set the weekly bar at no less than awesome, giving you quite a challenge when episodes pick up again in the near year.

A lot of things were set in motion this week, as the plot is casting a wide net in terms of bringing all of the characters together into one big story.

With Leslie on temporary suspension, we get to see her attempt to exist outside of her natural habitat. The most hilarious examples of how this is a woman that simply needs to be innovating and moving at all times? In a word: Salger. In an acronym? and PCP, as in The Parks Committee of Pawnee. Indeed, Leslie was going stir crazy, doing anything to worm herself back into the department, which was welcome news to all viewers who go to witness her zaniness come to the forefront.

The opening with Leslie sneaking into her office to copy work from her computer was a classic Leslie move, and the scene finally gave me more than a chuckle from Chris.

Speaking of Chris, it finally didn’t feel like an absolute chore to watch him. Mostly because he was used moderately and was given a purpose in each scene. Many times Chris is just the random, health-obsessed boss that comes jogging in for no real reasons. This time, he served as a roadblock to Leslie, and not only did it work, but the comedy was there at all times.

Ben, meanwhile, is still on the job hunt. I’m happy that Parks is taking its time with Ben instead of rushing out and placing him in some type of occupation that won’t work out in the end (also known as Entertainment 720). Letting Ben flap in the wind, wondering what he wants to do, is a great parallel for him to really accept Pawnee as his home, along with his place in it. Or this could all just be a stall tactic for Ben to join Leslie’s campaign along with everyone else.

With Leslie polling at the bottom of the milkshake, and her campaign managers calling it quits, her friends really stepped up to help her with her run for city council. It’s a great way to really integrate the entire cast and point them all in one direction. The possibilities of what that can do really excite me.

Now, even with the conceivable B and C storylines, the character can all be cast under the wide campaign umbrella. No more unnecessary (and boring) random stories that are more annoying than they are funny.

Other thoughts:

Ann’s face when she found out how much she was loved by Leslie was priceless.
Leslie’s gift to Ron was awesome, and I hope it gets used once in a while.
I love that Ron’s walls can, and do, cave down for Leslie.
LSD.
April and Andy hiding in the closet waiting to finish eating Leslie’s dinner.
NBC needs to sell an art book (or posters) because I would totally buy Leslie's nymph painting and April's Black Eyed Peas beheading painting.

What did everyone think of tonight's episode? Sound off in the comments and be sure to visit our quotes page and vote on your favorites!