4 out of 5 Stars
Parks & Recreation, overall, is an absolute delight. I don't remember the last time I enjoyed a comedy on TV this much. This show is not just full of laughs, it's full of heart. Taking on the sitcom format in the vein of shows like The Office, Parks & Recreation finds a footing of it's own, taking the "mocumentary" style in a direction of it's own and taking it's own place in Television history. I bet Leslie Knope is proud.
I'm a late-comer to the show right before it's been announced that it's going into it's last season but it has still been worth it. Season 1 was a rocky start for the show with only 6 episodes and basic setting to how the show would feel. Although still funny, the first few episodes in the series are a bit rough and don't have the same spark but still at least help set up the well-developed characters that will stay with us through most of the series (Leslie Knope, Ron Swanson, April Ludgate, Andy Dwyer, Tom Haverford, Donna, Ann Perkins, and Jerry).
Season 2 is really when the show takes off and hits the charming and funny spark that helps the show sky rocket. The relationships are more firmly forged and greatly used to heighten the comedy. All while continuing to follow Leslie's neverending quest to become the greatest public servant and government employee to live. Really, the show keeps a high streak all the way through season 5. There are a few downs here and there I think (mainly with the Douche) but overall most everything in the show stays entertaining and hilarious. It also never completely loses sight of the end goal. Every season has a through plot that continues to carry the show, among all the various side plots, and manages to stay consistent with the beginning of the show.
In Season 3, two characters are added as leads, Ben Wyatt and Chris Traeger, who add a new dynamic and an added fresh take to the nerd scene to round out the show. And really, every cast member fits the character so well it's as if they embody and personify them. Basically, the casting is impeccable.
Though, I feel at Season 6 they hit a slump, which might be part of why they felt it was time to end the show soon. Although still funny and quite enjoyable, this season starts to feel like the writers are having some trouble coming up with ideas. The hilarity that took place in the previous 4 seasons just isn't quite there and feels like it's dropped a step and a half. This by no means it's not still enjoyable and worth it. Perhaps one of the best parts of season 5 is the exploration of some of the more serious sides of many of the characters. It's the coming of age story for Parks & Recreation, which makes for a more mature and sentimental season, but that also means a few less laughs.
Overall, I would say that all of this show is worth watching so far. Definitely one of the best comedy shows of the past decade along with shows like Arrested Development. If you have not checked it out, I highly recommend it. And if you're not hooked at season 1, I suggest sticking it through to Season 2.

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