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The funniest show on television is not on NBC Thursday nights anymore.
This may sound like blasphemy to staunch “The Office” and “30 Rock” supporters, especially with “The Office” being its best since its second season and “30 Rock” being the most consistent comedy on television. But it is the Starz movie channel that houses television’s current comedy gold.
“Party Down” is on the network Friday nights at 9:30 p.m.
“Veronica Mars” creator Rob Thomas (not the Matchbox 20 dude) is behind the show and Paul Rudd (quite possibly the funniest man in America) is an executive producer.
With comedic talent like that behind the scenes, the show is built to succeed.
And it does, wonderfully.
It follows a catering company in Los Angeles, staffed by out-of-work actors and writers.
The show provides gut-busting laughs as well as subtle humor and awkwardness rivaling that of the original, British version of “The Office.”
The cast is a who’s who of “Mars” and Judd Apatow alumni.
Ken Marino, Martin Starr and Jane Lynch provide the biggest laughs each week. It is always wonderful to see Starr in a role with more than two lines, but it is Marino who owns this show.
Anything the man shows up in comes out stellar. Whether it is comedy (“The State”, “Wet Hot American Summer”) or drama (“Diggers”), Marino is a largely untapped talent and it is awesome to see him run wild here.
Also, the gorgeous Lizzy Caplan (“Cloverfield,” HBO’s “Trueblood”) is on the catering staff, showing off a sarcastic side rarely seen for the actress.
For those who do not subscribe (including myself), the Starz Web site has a few full episodes streaming currently and assorted clips from the show.
For any fans of uncomfortably hearty laughs, “Party Down” is the spot.
Luke McCormick can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 275
