10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Party Down (2009)

Description: Like 'Party Down', 'Arrested Development' features a dysfunctional group of characters who are constantly scheming and failing. Both shows use quick cuts, callbacks, and running gags to create a unique comedic rhythm. The ensemble casts of both series are perfectly balanced, with each character bringing something distinct to the table.

Fact: The show was canceled after three seasons but gained a cult following and was revived by Netflix. The Bluth family's banana stand was inspired by a real frozen banana stand in Newport Beach. Ron Howard's narration was added late in production.

Description: 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' shares 'Party Down's' dark humor and focus on dysfunctional characters. Both shows feature groups of people who are constantly scheming and failing, with hilarious results. The irreverent tone and sharp writing of 'Always Sunny' are similar to 'Party Down'.

Fact: The show was initially rejected by several networks before FX picked it up. The gang's bar, Paddy's Pub, is based on a real Philadelphia bar. Danny DeVito joined the cast in the second season to boost ratings.

Description: '30 Rock' shares 'Party Down's' fast-paced, joke-heavy style and satirical take on the entertainment industry. Both shows feature characters who are passionate about their work but often find themselves in ridiculous situations. The witty, self-referential humor of '30 Rock' is similar to the tone of 'Party Down'.

Fact: Tina Fey based the character of Liz Lemon on herself. The show was initially overshadowed by 'Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip' but outlasted it. Tracy Morgan ad-libbed many of his lines.

Description: Like 'Party Down', 'Parks and Recreation' is a workplace comedy that thrives on the absurdity of its characters' professional and personal lives. Both shows feature a mix of optimism and cynicism, with characters who are often more invested in their own lives than their jobs. The mockumentary style of 'Parks and Rec' also mirrors the observational humor of 'Party Down'.

Fact: The character of Ron Swanson was originally intended to be a minor role but became a fan favorite. The show was initially criticized for being too similar to 'The Office' but quickly found its own voice. Amy Poehler was pregnant during the first season, which was written into the show.

Description: Like 'Party Down', 'Community' is a comedy that thrives on its ensemble cast and their chemistry. Both shows feature a mix of absurdity and heart, with characters who are often their own worst enemies. The meta-humor and pop culture references in 'Community' are similar to the tone of 'Party Down'.

Fact: The show was inspired by creator Dan Harmon's experiences at community college. The 'Paintball' episodes were some of the most expensive to produce. Chevy Chase and Dan Harmon famously clashed behind the scenes.

Description: 'Veep' shares 'Party Down's' sharp, cynical humor and focus on characters who are often out of their depth. Both shows excel at rapid-fire dialogue and situational comedy. The political setting of 'Veep' provides a similar backdrop of absurdity to the catering world of 'Party Down'.

Fact: Julia Louis-Dreyfus won six consecutive Emmys for her role as Selina Meyer. The show was originally set in the White House but was changed to the Vice President's office. Many of the insults were improvised by the cast.

Description: 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' shares 'Party Down's' blend of workplace humor and character-driven comedy. Both shows excel at balancing heartfelt moments with sharp, witty dialogue. The ensemble casts of both series are filled with quirky, memorable characters who play off each other in hilarious ways.

Fact: The show was canceled by Fox after five seasons but was revived by NBC due to fan outcry. Andre Braugher, who plays Captain Holt, had never done comedy before this role. The Halloween heist episodes became a fan-favorite tradition.

Description: Like 'Party Down', 'Silicon Valley' is a workplace comedy that skewers the pretensions and absurdities of its setting. Both shows feature a group of underdogs trying to make it in a competitive industry, with plenty of mishaps along the way. The humor in both series is both smart and silly, with a focus on character dynamics.

Fact: Many of the tech startups featured on the show are based on real companies. The show's creators consulted with real Silicon Valley insiders for authenticity. T.J. Miller's character Erlich was originally intended to be a minor role.

Description: Much like 'Party Down', 'Superstore' is a workplace comedy that finds humor in the mundane and often frustrating aspects of low-wage jobs. Both shows feature a diverse ensemble cast and use their settings to comment on broader social issues while maintaining a lighthearted tone.

Fact: The show was inspired by creator Justin Spitzer's experiences working at a big-box store. America Ferrera was pregnant during the first season, which was written into her character's storyline. The show frequently used cutaway gags showing bizarre customer behavior.

Description: 'The Good Place' shares 'Party Down's' blend of high-concept storytelling and character-driven humor. Both shows feature flawed characters trying to navigate bizarre situations, with a mix of heart and hilarity. The philosophical themes of 'The Good Place' are balanced by its witty dialogue, much like 'Party Down'.

Fact: The show's twist at the end of the first season was kept secret from the cast. The frozen yogurt shops in the show are a nod to the idea of 'hell being other people'. Ted Danson had never done a multi-camera sitcom before this role.