Best TV Comedy Series of 2009

So I decided to take the Golden Globes approach this year and lump comedy and musicals together into one category, thanks to a lovely new show that stole my heart. I still find it somewhat difficult to compare, apples to oranges and what not. Below are my picks for the best of television comedy 2009.

Best Comedy Series: Community

It is so rare that a freshman comedy can knock one out of the park the way community has this year. Usually comedies need a bit of time to find their footing and know what works, but Community defied all odds and right out of the gate was a hilarious show. After an uncompromisingly funny pilot, Community managed to follow-up with Spanish 101, a brilliant episode that builds to a crescendo of ridiculousness that is unparalleled this year, the scene of Jeff (Joel McHale) and Pierce (Chevy Chase) giving their presentation was glorious. Though nothing can outdo the battle royale of their Christmas episode, Introduction to Religion that saw the characters divided over their conflicting religious beliefs uniting to take on a team of bullies. And also, Community has made Allison Brie go from being “Pete Campbell’s wife n Mad Men” to one of my favorite performers of the year.

Runner up: Party Down

Party Down is the funniest show that nobody is watching. A group of wannabe actors, writers and comedians in Hollywood making their living as cater waiters. Each episode brings a new party for them to deal with, some are huge public affairs others private gathering but all are great settings for comedy.

Honorable Mention: Glee

Glee is maybe my favorite new series of the year overall, but like other great “comedies” like Desperate Housewives calling Glee a comedy doesn’t always feel right. Especially given evidence that the AV Club reviewer even called it the saddest show on television. The show is deeply sad, but also joyful, energetic and heart-warming.

Honorable Mention: Parks and Recreation

If you told me a year ago that I wouldn’t consider 30 Rock or Weeds the top comedy of the year I would have called you crazy, but with the new series mentioned above coming out and Parks and Recreation improving so much it is true. This year has seen Parks and Recreation gone from being a pathetic imitation of The Office to being genuinely funnier than 30 Rock or it’s inspiration is truly amazing. But with excellent episodes like “Ron and Tammy” and “Hunting Trip” Parks and Recreation make the first hour of NBC comedy the real must see TV and the second hour a nice, amusing consolation prize.