A documentary-esque sitcom Parks and Recreation follows the government workers of the parks department in Pawnee, Indiana: a city full of bizarre and hilarious people. Directed by comedy veteran Greg Daniels, this mockumentary covers the wild repercussions of beaurocrat Leslie Knope’s well-meaning attempts to make her hometown a better place.
The show also brags a legendary cast: Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, Aziz Ansari and more develop an effortless onstage chemistry that keeps viewers hooked. But what really makes Park & Recreation so amazing is the inspiring performance of Poehler as Leslie Knope. Aside from being a loving friend and devoted waffle connoisseur, Leslie is a dedicated government employee who genuinely cares about her town and plans to be the first female president of the United States.
Over the course of the show, the audience is able to cheer on Leslie as she overcomes sexist government policies, supports other women in her life, and climbs closer and closer to that landmark presidential bid. Regardless of if you appreciate these feminist undertones, Parks and Recreation is bound to make you crack up–and wipe away a tear or two.
The perfect blend of dry humor, political satire, and random puppy cameos, Parks and Recreation is great binge material for anyone who can appreciate genius comedy paired with an inspiring feminist tale.