After two seasons, Party Down is still going strong (for now)

Starz has yet to really distinguish itself as a go-to station for original programming, but it’s not for lack of trying. One show that has stood out as an excellent program is Party Down. For my money, it’s one of the funniest shows on TV. It’s edgy, raunchy, features great performances, awesome guest spots and clever plotting. I love it.

The all-too-brief second season ended this week, and the future of the show is in question. A season three is still up in the air, and even if it does come back, it will be without featured player Adam Scott, who left the show for a role on Parks and Recreation. That’s certainly a depressing thought, though not quite as depressing as a world without Party Down all together.

I know a lot of folks were nervous about how the show would be in its second season after losing Jane Lynch to Glee. Some folks were even more nervous when Megan Mullally was announced as Lynch’s replacement. I, for one, thought that Mullally did an excellent job as Lydia in the second season. The writers were smart enough to create a character that was different enough than Lynch’s Constance. Lydia was a slightly crazy stage mother, who fit in perfectly with the rest of the crazy characters on the show who are struggling to make it in show business.

Season two got off to a slow start, but I think after two or three episodes the show really found its groove. There were a bunch of outstanding episodes over the season, and while the season may not have reached the heights of the first each week, it was still appointment viewing in my book. This season definitely seemed a lot more character driven, as some of the parties were a lot less ridiculous than in season one. Although, partying at Steve Guttenberg’s house definitely rates as a ridiculous situation.

It was great to see Lynch back in the finale last week, and if we get a season three I hope to see her again. I loved the give and take between Constance and Lydia as Constance was obviously feeling a little bad about being replaced. It made for some very funny moments.

If you haven’t stumbled across Party Down yet and you like edgy humor (there is much swearing and nudity), you should definitely try to catch some of the old episodes. If you are a Netflix subscriber all episodes are available via streaming video, or they can be found on the Starz website. Next time you’re looking for something to watch, give it a try.

Clacked by Bob Degon
on Jun 28, 2010 @ 10:00 EST5EDT