User reviews

"Party Down" is pervasively bleak - and even depressing at times - but it is also riotously funny. In a sense, it's the perfect show for our troubled times - at the height of an economic recession, with all these disasters occurring over the past few years, never has apathy and pessimism seemed so natural. As such, the show really taps into a broken-down, bitter attitude, using the LA wasteland as its source of inspiration...but it remains strangely optimistic because of the relationships between its cast members, whose characters struggle with their awful catering job but, at the end of the day, stick by each other. There's a sense of family amongst these broken-down rejects, and that's why we love watching their weekly miseries.

Adam Scott (a seriously underrated actor) is the "straight man" for the show - he enters season one as Henry, a new employee of Party Down Catering. He's a failed actor out of Hollywood who has finally accepted that he's too old and past his prime to ever achieve his dreams of becoming a star, so he has resorted to bartending for the company. Scott is wonderful at playing apathetic, and gives some of the best facial expression reactions I've seen in comedy. I'm used to seeing him as the meaner or wackier characters in titles like "Step Brothers" or "Eastbound and Down," but here he plays a very empathetic and human character, and is really the heart of the show.

Lizzy Caplan is the other relatively normal character in the show. She plays Casey, a stand-up comic treading water. As the season progresses, she becomes romantically involved with Henry, who is essentially her (and our) anchor amidst all the other crazy and eccentric people they encounter.

Ron Donald (Ken Marino) is the manager for Party Down, but the show avoids giving us the clichéd mean boss: he is painfully nice and sincere, with a perfectly goofy Brendan Fraser-style haircut that looks like someone just evened off the top rather lazily. Toward the end of season one he has a bit of a relapse with liquor and by season two his hair has grown out and he's smoking pot and drinking all day and lamenting his failed love life.

The rest of the cast consists of geeky Roman (Martin Starr), an aspiring elitist sci-fi writer whose writing actually rather sucks; Kyle (Ryan Hansen), a vain pretty-boy with another ridiculous haircut; and Constance (Jane Lynch), who exited season one to join the cast of "Glee" and was replaced in S2 by Lydia, a character played by Megan Mullally, who, it must be said, actually did a pretty good job filling in the void.

News spread yesterday that "Party Down" was canceled after the season two finale because it barely nabbed 700,000 viewers. Starz mishandled this show from day one, from not securing actors' contracts correctly (Adam Scott, unsure of whether the show would be renewed months ago, joined "Parks and Recreation" instead, and Ryan Hansen was also rumored to be moving on) to not really advertising it very much -- and then relying solely on viewing numbers instead of Netflix streams or illegal downloads. (Because they were dumb enough to NOT provide legal downloads on iTunes, which probably would have worked really well for them.) I've heard a lot of positive word-of-mouth lately, with everyone I talk to streaming it on Netflix's website. I don't know a single person who even subscribes to Starz. I'd say 700k views for a season finale on a premium channel that no one watches is pretty good! But I'm actually kinda glad that they went out on a good note rather than running the show into the ground. They provided two very consistent seasons, and with Adam Scott's definite departure from the show, it really just wouldn't have been the same. Hopefully the show will pick up some more word-of-mouth and become a cult hit on DVD, and Starz will do some kind of special a couple years down the road (like Ricky Gervais and Steve Merchant did with the British "Office") - then the full cast could return. Even though I'm glad the show didn't outstay its welcome, I liked these characters enough to be interested in where they'd be at in a few years.

"Party Down" is destined to be one of those titles you'll see on critics' "canceled-too-soon" lists over the next few years, right up there with "Arrested Development" and "Freaks and Geeks." It was a pleasure to watch every week, oddly reassuring in its pessimism, finding humour in the strengths of likable and empathetic characters, even when they were suffering through some pretty rough times. I feel like much truly great comedy finds the truths in common human weakness, causing us to laugh at misfortunes that we can relate to, and "Party Down" excelled at doing so.

Party Down is an excellent and original new show. To best describe the show I would say it would be like having Seth Rogen and Jud Apatow guest directing an episode of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Ken Marino is excellent in Party Down as well. He plays the roll of Ron Donald perfectly and is a highly underrated comedic force. This show is a breath of fresh air to the mundane world that is comedy on television. It also features many of the actors from Veronica Mars, including Kristen Bell herself. If you are expecting a second Veronica Mars though than this show is not for you. All in all though it is an excellent comedy that should keep the laughs coming for as long as it is running.

Certainly ahead of its time. Never quite found its audience so the show stops at 2 seasons. Great acting and super smart writing. If you're looking for something easy and light this show is for you. I'm left wanting more. Are we having fun yet?

This show is so great already and has even more potential. The first episode was just OK but man after that each episode keeps getting better and better. The show is about a group of caterers that go to their events but always end up being sidetracked by themselves. Every character has a unique personality and they all mesh perfectly. I wouldn't have thought that Starz could get so many actors and actresses that are hilarious but they managed to nab 3 actors from the Apatow crew (needless to say they are funny) and the Mean Girls lesbian and the dude from Wet Hot American Summer. If you have Starz this is a must watch show.. Premium Channels are saving comedy one show at a time.

Party Down is / was amazing.

Stars Ken Marino, Jane Lynch, Adam Scott, Lizzy Caplan (swoon), Martin Starr and other Apatow / Veronica Mars / The State fixtures.

F*cking hilarious and incredibly good--on par with the British Office--and sorely overlooked because it was produced by Starz, which no one will ever subscribe to.

The silver lining: it's streaming on Netflix. Highest possible recommendation.

(And because this interface forces reviewers to write ten lines of text, I'll parenthetically add, as an appetizer: at some point during the series, Steve Guttenberg will get naked in a hot tub, after having discussed German Expressionism.)

Watching this in 2020 And it's as funny as ever . I find Ron the team leader to be absolutely hysterical and the entire cast fits perfectly. Also it has a wonderful take on the hypocrisy of our society

So sad there's only 2 seasons. This show has made me genuinely laugh out loud more than any other show. A underrated gem that more people should know about.

Are We Having Fun Yet?! Are We Having Fun Yet?! Are We Having Fun Yet?!

I'm sad that it's only two seasons because it was a hilarious show and totally bingeworthy. However, if this show hadn't been canceled, we may never have had Ben Wyatt.

Its a real shame that the very best shows that ever aired on television got canceled so soon. Shows such as 'Arrested Development' and 'Freaks and Geeks.' 'Party Down' is another one of those shows. So smart, funny, innovative, yet, gets yanked off the air because of low ratings. Sad.

'Party Down' revolves around a party-catering company. The structure of the show is very simple yet effective. Each episode takes place at a certain event with certain types of people. This gives each eccentric character a chance to interact with all of the party guests in so many awkward, unusual, and flat-out hilarious ways.

A major theme of 'Party Down' is young people trying to have breakthroughs and make it into the film industry. They want so badly to become noticed, yet, they work for others every week and have no satisfaction. This is one of the many genius pathos that drive this very thoughtful comedy.

As a whole, 'Party Down,' obviously, was very underrated. But something very underrated is the cast of the show. 'Party Down' has one of the very best comedic ensembles I've seen on TV. The main character is Henry, played by Adam Scott. Henry is a very hopeless and apathetic actor who made it somewhat big with a famous catch-phrase on a beer commercial. Now, though, he can't seem to find his breakthrough, so to get by, he works for the Party Down company as a bartender, but has no interest in it at all. Adam Scott is one of the very best young and comedic actors around. He plays the part very subtle and small, making the character really speak to us. He plays the 'straight-man' to all of the eccentric characters, yet he has this relaxed humor that doesn't come off as over-the-top. Scott's performance reminds me a lot of Jason Batmane's in 'Arrested Development.'

The supporting characters here are all so interesting and wonderfully weird. There's Casey, a character who's very similar to Henry. She's a comedian trying to strike it big and Lizzy Caplan plays the role very subtle but has a biting delivery as well. Her and Scott's chemistry is something so sweet and honest to watch. Ken Marino plays Ron, a character who's so cringe-worthy but yet so addictive and funny. Ron is the company's leader who we learn used to be into drugs. He becomes clean, and now parades around his coworkers making sure they know just how much of a good person he is. Ron is a good person, but he's so painfully honest and does everything for the best of his team, which takes the character into some hilarious situations. There's Roman played by Martin Starr. Roman is a character who reminds me of Dwight Schrute from 'The Office.' He's very nerdy, intense, but yet kind of driven. Roman is a science-fiction screenwriter hoping to get noticed. He's very eccentric and makes for some very funny moments. There's Kyle, played by Ryan Hansen. Kyle is your typical Hollywood pretty boy actor. An actor who may become famous just because of his long blonde hair and good looks. He thinks he has talent, but is so oblivious to what he really is. Then lastly there's Jane Lynch as Constance and Megan Mullally as Lydia. Both of these actresses and characters are very similar. They are very big comedic performances that offer some scene-stealing moments. These characters are the oldest ones of the group, and play as each young person's mentor. These actresses are obviously two hilarious and very talented women, and both of these characters are so wonderfully weird.

'Party Down' has a very quiet, subtle, and smart sense of humor. Its very character-driven, which is something you don't get quiet often. The situations and pathos in each episode are very true and seem so real. 'Party Down' is also filmed in a very interesting way for a comedy as well. Its basically a hand-held camera, but the filming techniques here simple and effective. The directors let each scene roll in a relaxed way so each actor/actress can really let loose with their lines and get really creative with their characters.

The complete series, which consists of only 20 episodes, is available on Netflix. If you're into intelligent comedy with real, interesting characters, 'Party Down' is something you should experience.

I had no idea this show existed 10 years ago, then my wife was like Oh they have a new season!! So we watched it and I feel like I might have missed out on something. Great comedy with a lot of ridiculous angles, all with the intent to be absurd and make you laugh.

I love the cast. I have always enjoyed the humor of Adam Scott and Jane Lynch - not to take anything away from other actors, those are just to faces that come to mind.

We burned through the new season and are now sad that there isnt anything new, always a sign that a show has steam behind it. I am looking forward to the next sesason already.

Would certainly recommend!

Party Down is a refreshing voice that has recently been non-existent in the television community. It's a great grasp on what young people today conceive as hilarious and for those that aren't capable of enjoying this satire on Hollywood, they are mistaken. Party Down gives the viewer the perspective from a down and out actor struggling for acceptance and satisfaction from an industry that only values profit. While also embracing the fact that happiness isn't measured by a dollar sign. Henry's struggle for the equilibrium in his professional career as well as his love life transcend the screen. For all the shows from premium channels, this show has a lovable cast that the viewer ship can relate to; Which is more than I can say about other television programs.

What's funnier than the show itself are the people on this board that think they understand what they are talking about. I watched this show for the first time the other day, and I do have to say that it is very entertaining. The writing is really good and well thought out, and I love what the actors do with it. Most of the people talking smack about this show are probably over 45 years old, and think that two and a half men is the funniest show in the world. This is definitely a show for the young people. All in all, this show definitely has it's place, and has a decent enough fan base that it won't be effected by the 2 or 3 bad reviews that are written on this site.

I had never heard of this show until I heard they are doing a remake! Where was I in 2009? I started watching it on Hulu and I'm absolutely blown away. I have never laughed so hard at anything, this cast is amazing. It's like a dream cast of comedians, and you are missing out if you're not watching this. If you love comedy, you will love this show. Adam Scott totally kills it and so does Lizzy Caplan, as they are portraying, struggling,down and out actors who can't seem to catch a break. It's totally real and totally hilarious in every single way. I highly recommend this show and nobody is paying me to say that!!!

Although Arrested Development is my 3rd favorite TV show of all time, I wish this one survived longer than AD. If you have not seen this show, please do. The casting is perfect from the 'star' actors tot he extras. A beautiful comedy, that truly speaks to where the genre came from. I have no idea what it is like to be a struggling actor, but I truly believe in these characters struggles and am convinced the actor's struggles themselves are indeed portrayed on screen. It is a shame that art like this is shunned and shows like, '3 1/2 Men' and 'How I Met Your Mother' can survive the test of time. Unlike 'AD', I believe anybody and everyone who watches will fall in love with this show.

The characters are fun and unique, the pacing is great and it is a genuinely funny show. Too bad it didn't get a bigger run on TV because it had potential to be one of the best shows in recent memory.

I loved this show when the first two series aired. It was funny edgy amd relatable. I had a wierd thing for Adam Scott (Still do) and thought Lizzy Caplan was awesome. This was the show of my early adulthood Generally, trying to recreate a show, risks crapping on the original work. BUT.... Series 3 is perfection.

Its authentic to the original series 1 and 2, without trying too hard to be cool (except Kyle, but thats just him) the young characters bring in the modern youth and work well against the older original caracters, rather than at their expence, which often happens. Both generations had room to shine and show their worth.

I think it speaks vollumes that the main cast all (almost) came back in some capasity to revise their characters.

The only downfall is only 6 eps, more please!!!!!!

I didn't stumble on this hidden gem until 2019 but am I glad I did! This show is amazing, creative, funny, witty and always kept a tight story line that played out perfectly in 30 minutes. All of the players were awesome. Professional actors given brilliant writing- a perfect storm. I will add that I had to go and look up Ken Marino because he was out of this world perfect in his part. And besides the flip phones, everything in these two seasons aged very well ( maybe with the exception of the football draft episode). Watch this and be entertained.

This show is legit hilarious. Should have been many more seasons. Ken Marino is a gem in this show. The whole cast just works very well together. They did end the show pretty good despite it only being three seasons.

Extremely unique, original and sad as heck there wasn't more of this promising show. I still re watch it and it's 2022 now. Great cast, story and most of all amazing original humor. Please make another season !!!!!!!!!!!!! I love movies and shows like this because HEY lots of us have worked in the industry. Of Service. :) and like "Waiting" with Ryan Renolds this show is in that category but very different and you won't be disappointed. Nonetheless I am not the biggest picky comedy watcher but when I see potential and great casting,craft.?!!! Was so sad it was too short of a show. WATCH it! :)! :)

Who knew you could base the main character entirely off of Nickelback's How You Remind Me?

Lol. But seriously, Henry Pollard is well performed by Adam Scott. Aside from the well thought out comedy that comes from going nowhere in life, as the audience you DO want to root for Henry to get back on the Hollywood horse because he does have that special x-factor even though he spends his life pushing that back inside him. And of course it's fun watching the new girl, Casey, bring that out in him. And maybe, just maybe if Henry can get back in the game, there is a bit of hope for the others too.

The first two seasons are excellent. The cost is top notch. The 2-episode cameos from Kristen Bell, J. K. Simmons, Ken Jeong etc are well done and bring you attitudes you wouldn't expect just as the Party Down events take you to Hollywood atmospheres you never would have seen otherwise.

Party Down is also sarcasm done the right way... commentary made by people who are too smart and too old to be in the situation they're in. Keep this show around and re-watch it every couple of years for sure.

The retail and service industry relies entirely on teamwork for success. There is a chain of command and each employee plays a crucial role. Everyone is important. Dedication is required to ensure the flow of sales and services to customers and clients. Nowadays, with the prominence of online business recommendations and ratings, a team, or a team member, can hurt, lose, or gain business. In reality this breakdown of teamwork is incredibly frustrating. In Party Down, the lack of teamwork mimics life, but it's funny - particularly if you are employed are have been employed in the customer service industry.

Simply one of the funniest and most enjoyable comedies I've ever seen. I've watched it 3 times now and will probably watch it again in the future. So many great comedic actors in this show. It's just a shame it didn't go on for at least a few more seasons.