Parks and Recreation has become my new favorite show! Like The Office, it’s filmed in a mockumentary style, but with characters that delve a bit deeper. Here, you get a crew that’s not just quirky but surprisingly well-rounded with hidden layers and genuine growth throughout the series. Set in the small town of Pawnee, Indiana, the series follows the employees of the Parks and Recreation department.
Without too many spoilers, let me just jump to the description of my favorite character: Ron Swanson. Ron is the department boss, a staunch libertarian with a love for all things meat and a firm belief that government makes about as much sense as a participation trophy. It might seem strange that, while hating the government, he works for it, but he’s on a mission to “minimize the damage” from the inside.
Despite his gruff exterior, Ron is an amazing manager and a father figure to his team. He knows the strengths and weaknesses of every single person in his department and can fix anything except computers (he threw away his computer for privacy concerns).
Ron has strong beliefs and rarely changes them. His dedication to routine is legendary. He’s rocked the same hairstyle since disco was a thing, and he’s driven the same beloved car since the Soviet Union collapsed. Once, he got a better job offer, but because he liked his routine so much, he refused. Though he has reached a sort of ultimate form of his personality, he occasionally reconsiders his actions, especially when faced with something entirely new.
Parks and Rec isn’t just a funny show; it’s a heartwarming reminder about the power of community, friendship, and finding joy in the everyday. Plus, Ron Swanson is a character you can’t help but admire, even if you wouldn’t trade your computer for a lifetime supply of bacon.
PS: I did not like the first season and skipped it entirely.