What I’m Watching: Parks and Recreation

Parks and Recreation: Season 2, Episode 13 “The Set Up” (B+)

It’s always fantastic to have an episode advertised for one special element, and then have something else altogether overshadow it in a positive way. The heavily promoted guest spot by Amy Poehler’s real-life husband Will Arnett, who received an Emmy nomination for his appearance on “30 Rock,” does make for a few funny moments, mostly because it’s a rarity to see Leslie as the more normal half in a relationship dynamic. But there’s another unadvertised guest star who’s around to help enhance the show, and the last moments of this episode indicate that perhaps he’ll stick around for a bit. Justin Theroux, who appeared in the fourth season of “Six Feet Under,” is the charming lawyer who Ann was saving as her backup who now may just be the right fit for Leslie. It’s also a delight, as Andy of all people correctly points out, that Ann actually did something wrong for once since it’s usually the rather suave and appropriately apologetic Mark who might mess up. The most fantastic part of this episode is the search for an assistant for Ron. Tom’s interview process is quite ridiculous but very funny, especially because he essentially selects himself as his recommendation to Ron. I’m much happier with Ron’s choice of April. I worried when she talked about finishing her internship that she might be off the show soon, but I’m so glad she’s found a permanent way to stick around. I know she says she’s doing it so that she gets paid, but I do suspect it’s something to do with her friendship with Andy. Either way, it’s going to be a lot of fun, and she’s really the perfect assistant for Ron.