What I’m Watching: Parks & Recreation

Parks & Recreation: Season 4, Episode 9 “The Trial of Leslie Knope” (B+)

This is the second time that Leslie has turned herself in and been faced with a trial to determine her complicity in a corruption scandal. What’s great, and expected, is that it’s wholly different this time, mainly because it’s Chris who’s gathering witnesses against her and trying to find out whether or not she’s guilty. I enjoyed the parade of ineffective witnesses, including April’s in-character performance, Andy’s admission of a stolen laptop, and Jerry’s new name, but the highlight was most certainly Tammy Two’s appearance, in which she was reminded that she was under oath and promptly left. It was fitting that a fifty-dollar gift certificate to the janitor would be Leslie’s undoing, but, as usual, she’s more than ready to take responsibility for her actions. Ben taking the fall for Leslie was quite sweet, and I love that Chris told her that she should listen to the part of the transcript where he declared his love for her. Chris’ eccentric regiment designed to battle depression was entertaining, and his post-trial compliment to Leslie telling her that she was the only woman worthy of Ben he had ever met was sweet. I’m sure that Ben, in his post-government life, could do well with a job on Leslie’s campaign, but I’m sure the show will find some way to keep him occupied. With the cat out of the bag, the happy couple can move forward with fewer distractions and help Leslie win her first official political office that’s the just next step in her promising career.