We’ll call it the IWA jinx: Party Down canceled
Starz has just announced that they are not renewing the excellent “Party Down” for a third season. Perhaps it is fitting that a show that dryly observes failure amidst success would become critically acclaimed, only to be summarily canceled. I tried to describe it in my previous post on the show, but “Party Down” had a unique tone, one born from seeing the character with their dreams of fame and success, confront constant reminders of their shortcomings.
Jane Lynch, who returns for the last episode of the second season, has the closest thing to a catch-line on the show (besides the main character’s career stifling light-beer ad jingle). Feeding off of her character’s eternal optimism, she spouts “It’s like a miracle!” at ironic, if not totally depressing, moments. Rather than mock her and her quasi-delusional worldview, however, “Party Down” celebrates it. In a town where everyone is trying to make it, “Party Down” is about foot soldiers, minor victories, and maintaining your dream in a world of assholes.
