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Could you do a character dissection of Ben Wyatt? The most normal male character ever written? When I say he’s normal I don’t mean bland, I mean he’s not a goofball, a meat head, or a jerk, but a normal guy who reflects a lot males today, nerdy, hard working, loves his friends, fully supports his wife, sticks to his work until it’s done, and isn’t afraid to be himself. He’s the only male character I’ve fully identified with.
I actually had a real dislike towards Ben. I personally liked Ron the best. Andy was second. I guess it depends on how we see ourselves. I tend to act like a mix of the two depending on whom I'm with. Ben to me just felt really like... Sam from game of thrones except a bit less childish.
Timber wolf0027 In the beginning I didn’t like _Mean Ben_. I didn’t _dislike_ him, just disregarded him as first a robotic bureaucrat and then another Mark. But then he grew on me intensely as a fully fleshed human being, and a caring and frustrated big brother.
I recommend Joe Pera Talks With You. Makes me feel like everything is gonna be ok and shows me some of the overlooked lovely parts of life in a beautiful and funny way.
Except Donna, Mona Lisa, and the Tammy’s. Jennifer Barkley is also kind of a butthead. And Mrs. Newport is selfish and mean. But yeah Ann and Leslie are proven to be wonderful people and solid characters. And Diane. I love Diane. But Shawna Malway Tweep is not really a good role model... too much of a joke. Leslie’s mother is also kind of mean. But April is a great character, I seriously LOVE April.
@@porpoisstanley5209 Yeah I guess I would rephrase it to all the women who work for Parks and Rec (Oh and Diane, she really is great). I would argue that Donna is a great character and really does evolve into a helpful friend. Like taking Ben out for treat yo self day.
Gina M IMO Donna is rude and materialistic up until the last season. She does things that are nice but it’s ruined by her standoffishness, materialism, and brashness. She is constantly bitching about Leslie on Twitter. Even if she sometimes tweets nice things about her, that doesn’t excuse the act of putting such terrible thing out there about a sweet person who is supposed to be your friend. In many parts of the show, it is shown that Donna often toys with the hearts of men who like her, which is wrong. Don’t fool around with peoples hearts, that’s a terrible thing to do. It’s true that sometimes she is helpful and willing to do things for others, but those times don’t outweigh her horrible attitude and rude demeanor, and the way she constantly denigrates the people around her. At least for me. I don’t like her lol but I can acknowledge that she does some redeemable things, but those things don’t redeem her enough imo. Just my opinion 😅
To me Leslie Knope is not just a role model for women but a role model for everyone of any gender. She's not just a woman's woman but a woman of the people.
She’s a selfish horrid person the charisma of Amy pohler has you confused. Same thing with mike Scott. The character is a tool but the comedy of the situation mixed with the charisma of an actor fools you into thinking they are good people. It’s more a testament to how gullible and easily manipulated you are by thinking she’s a role model.
possibly the best thing anyone has ever said to me, was my friend jackie telling me that i am a male version of leslie knope. it passes through my mind very often. i've worked in local, state, and federal government. i will soon leave my state job for the peace corps. whenever i'm discouraged, i remember jackie telling me that. i don't care that she's fictional. leslie is my hero. i'm sure jackie didn't know what kind of impact her statement would have on me. but it keeps me going. i'm so proud of her saying that. thanks, jackie.
Chief Trumple: Leslie Knope gets as many favors as she needs. Ben: May I ask why? Chief Trumple: Because she's the kind of person who uses favors to help other people. This sums up Leslie Knope so perfectly. She's high strung and ridiculous, but she's the best person that you know.
It’s kinda sad how those traits are always automatically paired with ambition. But even when I see people in real life with these traits it’s a turn off. You don’t have to be cold, crass, and standoffish to be an ambitious person.
*Writers, directors and people in general, should LEARN from Leslie Knope's character how a female lead should be written and expressed through media / literature.* Not through overexagerated tragedy, not a princess acting like a tomboy, nor being a badass warrior that can kick any man down. Just by writing and treating women like any human being. An individual with emotions and layers. But never reduced by just simple act or quirk. Because Leslie Knope, is flawed, dorky, hardworking and inspired her own strenght through feminity and ambitions without losing herself onto it. She always want to do the right thing and cares about Pawnee. Likes eating waffles, believe in the goverment and tends to be overdramatic. But by end of the day, she is a human. Like any of us, with relatable struggles and emotions. *EDIT:* Wanna add another thing. Thanks by a comment. Females characters that are warriors, villains, lovers or friends, queens, soldier of any position of power or normal people thar can do wonderful fears are ALSO good female characters. My two cents, is just as long, such individuals aren't reduced by TV tropes, cliches or stereotypes, I'm okay with that. Just as this resume video says, not all heroes need to wear a cape. Sometimes, simple by working in a park deparment.
@Maria Paz G. I get what you're saying but I want my female characters to be as diverse as possible, I want them to be tragic, to be a tomboy princess, to be bada** warriors. I don't want them to be caricatures or one-note stereotypes. But I do want a tomboy princess or bada** female warrior who is also flawed, emotionally complex, and multi-layered. It's best to remember that womanhood isn't monolith, there are plenty for diverse representation of different kinds of female characters in media/literature.
@@neosoontoretro True. I have nothing against those titles. I just don't like exagerations. Women that are complex, flawed yet relatable. Female figures that can be warriors, queens, friends, lovers, villians or heroes and anything in general. Either fantasy or slice of life. That's amazing. As long such traits and personality are well balanced in the story. The thing is, that need to be well written and how they are expressed within the narrative, I'm okay with that. I just don't want to be reduced by that label or too rushed.
I am a 29 year old Dominican male who is also a combat veteran.... and I am telling you Leslie Knope isn’t just a woman’s woman, she’s just a great human being period. I can’t tell you how many times I got out of a fire fight in Iraq and watched parks and rec just to see knope remind me wtf I was fighting for and put a smile on my face
I love Galentine's Day. I love that it was NOT scheduled for Valentine's Day. So many shows have their "strong female character" celebrate an anti-Valentine's Day, inviting all the single women to support each other and complain about men. But this plays into the age-old trope of single ladies hating married/partnered ladies, plus a new trope of seeing women who settle down as "failures" of feminism. Galentine's Day (& Leslie Knope) celebrates women in every step of their life. Also, while writing this I somehow (???) thought about Tammy 2, and how she's an interesting inversion of the "crazy stalker woman" trope. I honestly might die when/if you guys put out a Ron Swanson analysis.
I feel like tammy 2 breaks the trope because Ron goes just as crazy as her and Leslie and Ron’s other friends are trying to get him out of the toxic relationship.
I've been waiting for someone to cut together and describe her and Ben's relationship for so long. It makes me realize how amazingly perfect they are for each other.
I definitely think you guys could get a great video essay out of Ron Swanson and the really complex and unique class of male character he embodies and grows into throughout the show. His relationship with Leslie definitely can be explored more, too!
Leslie Knope is one of the reasons I want to go into government work, she really makes you think about how the little things you do make a difference in the world. This show is so so positive and an amazing influence for everyone. I love it.
Kennedy Robinson Word of advice: all of this, is la la land Drivel. Good entertainment, but nowhere near what actual government is. It’s slimy, Corrupt, and self serving. Only by stepping on others toes do you get things done.
Please start a parks and rec series!! there's so much about this show that needs to be analized (the way they portrait relationships (romantic and platonic) the growth of the characters, how they deal with failure, etc) and also it's so much fun
When the show ended I was so sad. I was amazed that it got better and better with each season. I can't remember any show that did that. I also said that everyone needs a friend like Leslie Knope because as committed as she was to the passion of government she improved the lives of everyone she brought into her life. The finale was the most satisfying finale ever to me because while I was sad the show ended it gave necessary closure.
So happy to see so many people are thrilled about this video. It just proves there're sooo many people out there who are truly good human beings and want to spend their time in this world doing good and being good to themselves and others. There are hundreds of great shows and then there's Parks and Rec. I remember the first time I watched it and when I got to the finale I instantly went back to watch the reruns. It's one of those shows (the only one for me personally, but..) you don't want to think that one day they would come to an end and you will no longer be able to follow on the life of the people you somehow got so attached to and became family or best friends. The characters live in you, and I'm not talking only about Leslie. I equally loved Ron Swanson and Donna and April and Ann. Oh Ann! The poetic noble land-mermaid. Who doesn't crave an Ann in their lives. A full-time nurse who magically seems to have all the time for her friend. I just can go on and on, on how much I love the show. Thank you ScreenPrism!
I love how you covered Leslie and Bens relationship but I’d love a whole video about just that. I’ve always found it so interesting that Ben takes a traditional female role in the relationship while still demonstrating male characteristics. He likes sports, and even punches a man who calls Leslie a bitch which is traditionally very masculine but he makes real sacrifices in his career to further Leslie’s which is traditionally what women do for their relationships. The switch the typical gender rolls but both and still masculine and feminine when they do so. It would be interesting to see a take on the impacts of that
The show has some good writing because most would simply have the character either abandon all of thier traditional gender traits for the roll switch or keep their traditional gender traits
Thanks you! this is exactly why i loved Parks and Rec but didn't like the Office. There's a sort of mean vibe coming from the office while Parks and Rec is so hopeful!
@@TheMajorStranger oh season 1 is a major cringefest. It actually is hard to get through it. But don't worry, there is actually only 1 episode left in this season. Once you make it to season 2 it becomes much better and much more watchable, I promise you.
Season 2 is exponentially better than season 1 - when I first watched it I thought I wouldn't like it, all through the first season (I kept thinking "really? Is this what the hype is all about?") Stick with it. You won't regret it!
Can I just say, that as a dude, I really look up to Leslie, and that those lines you used in your opening from P&R: "If I come on strong, it's because I feel strongly", are ones that I try to live by, so I just wanted to say that she isn't just a woman's woman, but everyone's person. I don't want her getting closed off, or me feeling like if I try to be like her, or try to mimic some of her traits, that I'd be coming off too feminine. I just want to be a good person who cares for people, and she's the perfect example of that, regardless of gender.
She isn't one or the other. She is for sure a person who works hard to better the world for all people but she is also a very committed feminist who does a lot specifically for women and girls and never really does anything specifically for men(which I am cool with)
ALL of the women in Parks and Recreation (yes, even April) were fantastically written. What I enjoyed about Leslie, as well as Ann, in particular, is that they were just normal women. Leslie isn't some badass warrior trying to take down the men in government, but she's also not some overemotional stereotype. She's a woman who cares for people, and cares for her country. She loves her friends, she loves having fun, and she loves work. And despite the show featuring strong female characters, it never put down men in order to do so. None of the male characters were written as villains who hate women (although Tom's behavior at times was questionable) and everyone was truly equal. I wish the world were more like Pawnee, I wish more people were like Leslie Knope, and most of all, I wish more sitcoms were as optimistic and warm as Parks and Rec.
Leslie and Ben as well as April and Andy showed that a couple getting together doesn’t have to be a jump the shark moment and happy couples can be a part of great story telling and character development.
The best thing about Leslie Knope is that she is a very earnest character without an ounce of cynicism! In today's world earnestness is frowned upon and is often ridiculed. If someone is being vulnerable or really earnest, that person is labelled as embarassing. Earnest feelings should always be hidden under a barb of cheeky sarcasm or caustic witty cynicism, because that is what is perceived as cool. Leslie Knope is such an welcome departure in that regard.
people in tv should watch how leslie knope is written and take notes. this is how you write an original and inspirational character without falling victim to the cliches
Shout-out to Mike Schur for creating several highly successful comedies that accurately portray women as people with traits, not plot devices to the "funny man"!
I would love a video on Leslie’s relationship with Ben, how it’s the ultimate fantasy relationship for women. I would also like to see Leslie and Ron’s relationship discussed, because she loves Ron and Ron loves and respects her - even though they are different. She would do anything for him and he would do anything for her. Also! I would love to see a video on Leslie and April, how Leslie is April’s mentor (though Ron is April’s real support) and while April doesn’t want Leslie’s love, she ultimately accepts it and desires it. I know you touch on all of these things in your video, but it would be nice to expound on it. Esp. Leslie and April.
This video makes me wanna cry, especially the part about Ben, he didn't pay lip service he actually supported and sacrificed for her. Leslie Knope is wonder woman.
Emily Raye thank you so many people think the office is better. They’re both great shows and both funny but parks and Rec is just better quality in my opinion.
The Office is equally amazing, but you cannot put it on repeat for a year like I did with Parks and Rec. I feel The office Characters are 80% selfish, mean, manipulative, opportunist, ... and only 20% nice, caring, passionate about their job, ..., while it's the other way around for Parks and Rec characters. April Ludgate and Tom Haverford are the "meanest" characters in the latter show, but can anyone really hate them? I know I sort of hate Angela Martin and Ryan Howard from The Office. Even Jim and Pam are not that nice or caring about their colleagues. Couple goals though.
+Zulaikha Mohamed I actually really hate Tom. He's vain, arrogant, disrespectful to pretty much everyone except Donna yet constantly asks them for help, and self serving. He has a grating singing voice and he's always singing. He thinks highly of himself even though he has no reason to. At least the office acknowledges when the characters are unlikable and they actually have redeemable qualities.
Leslie is actually one of the best female characters ever written. Heck, not just female, she’s one of my favorite protagonists ever. All the characters on this show are so well done.
I hadn't watched it when it orignally aired but had it on my "list" to watch. Season 1 was hard to get through. A friend encouraged me to do it and I'm really glad I did. Such a delightful show and Leslie makes me so happy. You just want to adopt a little Leslie Knope-positivity in your day everyday when things aren't going so right.
This is a really amazing video so often when I think of my favorite characters on tv or in movies it’s male protagonists that come to mind but this really makes me remember how significant and inspiring a character they made at parks and rec thanks for that keep up the good work
I am so disappointed seeing half the comments just wanting to talk about Ben or Ben's relationship with Leslie. Can we seriously not stop at this wonderful character for a singular video!
Wow they didnt change her personality, they just changed the people reacting to her, and she went from being viewed as disrespected to respected. That kind of shows that it's not always within your control how you are viewed. Sometimes it's really just the people you are surrounded by. You dont have to change yourself, you have to choose the right people to surround yourself with.
There was an article I read on 'strong female leads' in media just being woman that adopt masculine traits and ideals in order to be perceived as strong like single minded determination, aggression and unwavering beliefs. I think Leslie Knope is exactly what that article was calling for, a strong female character whose strength comes through her feminine characteristics. She's a strong FEMALE. Not another male character they shoved in an attractive female body.
cousin, actually haha ! Dwight’s brother and sister are Fanny and Jeb, a normal women with a child and strange weed farmer. you’d probably start to think that Mose is his brother tho, since he is there so much
It's interesting that you mentioned how Leslie Knope's character never changed from how she was in season one. I found her to be insufferable, and it felt like they were playing up the more neurotic, Type A personality traits, and the writers made her belligerently optimistic and productive, always pushing on her peers to do more and take on more when they clearly were just humoring her. But I'm wondering now if I was reacting to her because that was how I genuinely saw her being portrayed, or if I was being influenced by how the other characters on the show treated her. I never considered it before. Whatever they did, it worked, and I'm glad the show set off in a different direction, because she's now one of my favorite television characters. They've written them so well, and so believably, that you actually could see them as real people in this reality. We all want a friend like Ann Perkins, we would love to work for a boss like Ron Swanson, we know that loveable dreamer like Tom, we want our own relationships to be as fun and loving as Andy and April's, and I wish that there were more women like Leslie Knope in public office. They made a show that was funny without the need to punch down, or make a singular person the butt of every joke and putdown (except maybe Jerry, but he's living the good life, so who cares). That's why I looked forward to watching it, because the episodes were always uplifting, and the characters were people you actually liked. You know you've played a role so well when people are actually disappointed that you aren't really a couple in real life, or that they aren't really in government. But that's the neat thing about this show is that it not only reflected our desires and values, it has given us all new models to aspire to. That's the power of Leslie Knope.
Can you guys do a breakdown of Donna or Gary with a segment on their friendship? Those two have a sweet background relationship on the show that should be noticed more
this video convinced me to watch Parks and Rec. Leslie Knope the fictional character is everything I aspire to be in life, and I now carry a "Knope 2012" pin on my backpack to work every day
this video made me so hopeful and happy. im just glad a character like leslie knope is out there because thats honestly the ideal. and this video made me cry goodnight.
I know this video essay makes me cry every time I watch it, yet today is one of those days when i come here again, knowingly i'll be balling by the end.
God I love Parks and Recs. The earnestness in the show's stories and characters and how it presents its message are incredibly endearing. Characters are rarely caricatures like sitcoms tend to do. Every decision has consequence. Although coming from the same creator, you can feel that it is not a show where behaviors like pranking your desk mate 24/7 or getting a work mate a heart attack just to teach fire safety can get away. It also lost some steam toward the end like many sitcoms, but thanks to a deep self consciousness, it never plummated like The Office since Michael left the show.
I've just finished rewatching Parks and Rec a couple of weeks ago, by which time I had already come across your channel and fallen in love with your beautifully insightful videos, and was wondering if you'd ever shine the spotlight on P&R characters. I am so happy to see that you have!
Brilliant video! Leslie is definitely one of the best written TV characters of all time and one of my favorites (and Parks and Recreation is my favorite show of all time). She's truly a role model for all (men and women alike).
Please do one on Broad City! The friendship between abbi and ilana is one of the best depictions of female friendships I’ve ever seen. It’s really pure and not filled with any underlying hate or jealousy.
This is such a wholesome, positive video and has given me that extra push to start Parks & Rec from the beginning again! I'd been thinking of going back and starting the series over since I regrettably stopped watching years ago after several seasons, but I kinda hesitated bc I already have sooo many shows on my plate. But I'm 100% inspired now. I really did always appreciate the variety of female personalities on the show.
Holy cow!!! I love Park&rec and I love Leslie knope and what a phenomenal breakdown!! you please have done I really hope you guys continue to do more as special parks and rec and the office!!!
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ScreenPrism please more on parks and recreation, and Brooklyn 99
Please do ron swanson! your work is true, you rock guys :)
ScreenPrism your work is great thanks
Thanks for the vid and please do more parks and rec please
Could you do a character dissection of Ben Wyatt? The most normal male character ever written? When I say he’s normal I don’t mean bland, I mean he’s not a goofball, a meat head, or a jerk, but a normal guy who reflects a lot males today, nerdy, hard working, loves his friends, fully supports his wife, sticks to his work until it’s done, and isn’t afraid to be himself. He’s the only male character I’ve fully identified with.
Ben is an excellent example of the kind of guy most women actually could easily fall for.
Oh man a series like you did about the characters on Friends would be AMAZING, please analyze all the Parks & Rec characters!!!
I actually had a real dislike towards Ben. I personally liked Ron the best. Andy was second. I guess it depends on how we see ourselves. I tend to act like a mix of the two depending on whom I'm with. Ben to me just felt really like... Sam from game of thrones except a bit less childish.
It's almost as if people are different.
Timber wolf0027 In the beginning I didn’t like _Mean Ben_. I didn’t _dislike_ him, just disregarded him as first a robotic bureaucrat and then another Mark. But then he grew on me intensely as a fully fleshed human being, and a caring and frustrated big brother.
Parks and Rec was the rare show that made you feel really good after you watched it.
I recommend the Good Place, another of Michael Shur's shows! :D same vibe. makes you want to be a better person.
I've heard a lot of good things about that show. I'll have to check it out.
Brooklyn 99, also made by Micheal Schur, does the same thing for me. At this ppoint I'll watch anything with that guys name on it.
I recommend Joe Pera Talks With You. Makes me feel like everything is gonna be ok and shows me some of the overlooked lovely parts of life in a beautiful and funny way.
It is also the only show to ever make me cry happy tears, especially Leslie and Ben's wedding.
Not only is Leslie a great female role model so are all the women on Parks and Rec. It truly was a once in a lifetime show.
Except Donna, Mona Lisa, and the Tammy’s. Jennifer Barkley is also kind of a butthead. And Mrs. Newport is selfish and mean. But yeah Ann and Leslie are proven to be wonderful people and solid characters. And Diane. I love Diane. But Shawna Malway Tweep is not really a good role model... too much of a joke. Leslie’s mother is also kind of mean. But April is a great character, I seriously LOVE April.
@@porpoisstanley5209 Yeah I guess I would rephrase it to all the women who work for Parks and Rec (Oh and Diane, she really is great). I would argue that Donna is a great character and really does evolve into a helpful friend. Like taking Ben out for treat yo self day.
Gina M IMO Donna is rude and materialistic up until the last season. She does things that are nice but it’s ruined by her standoffishness, materialism, and brashness. She is constantly bitching about Leslie on Twitter. Even if she sometimes tweets nice things about her, that doesn’t excuse the act of putting such terrible thing out there about a sweet person who is supposed to be your friend. In many parts of the show, it is shown that Donna often toys with the hearts of men who like her, which is wrong. Don’t fool around with peoples hearts, that’s a terrible thing to do. It’s true that sometimes she is helpful and willing to do things for others, but those times don’t outweigh her horrible attitude and rude demeanor, and the way she constantly denigrates the people around her. At least for me. I don’t like her lol but I can acknowledge that she does some redeemable things, but those things don’t redeem her enough imo. Just my opinion 😅
@@porpoisstanley5209 Ann is so not a great example of anything.
Iprobably hateyou meh I think she’s a good friend to Leslie most of the time. Rashida Jones isn’t a good actress really.
To me Leslie Knope is not just a role model for women but a role model for everyone of any gender. She's not just a woman's woman but a woman of the people.
You straight up stole Hillary's verse from Epic rap battles of History. lmao. I know you didn't mean to but that's the first thing I thought of.
I actually had no idea until I saw the video for myself, thanks for bringing it to my attention.
And ben wyatt is also a rolr model for everyone.
What an eloquent compliment! And something to strive for. Well put 👏
She’s a selfish horrid person the charisma of Amy pohler has you confused. Same thing with mike Scott. The character is a tool but the comedy of the situation mixed with the charisma of an actor fools you into thinking they are good people. It’s more a testament to how gullible and easily manipulated you are by thinking she’s a role model.
possibly the best thing anyone has ever said to me, was my friend jackie telling me that i am a male version of leslie knope. it passes through my mind very often. i've worked in local, state, and federal government. i will soon leave my state job for the peace corps. whenever i'm discouraged, i remember jackie telling me that. i don't care that she's fictional. leslie is my hero. i'm sure jackie didn't know what kind of impact her statement would have on me. but it keeps me going. i'm so proud of her saying that. thanks, jackie.
All the best in life, Mr. Male Leslie Knope!
That's so wholesome!
Literally the best compliment someone could ever give me, is that I remind them of Leslie Knope. I want to be like her
I love that you said “I don’t care that she’s fictional” and not “I don’t care that I’m not a woman”. Idk why but it hits different
I feel Leslie is a prime example of what it means to be a Hufflepuff
We need more Hufflepuff energy!
oh wow, I can't unthink it!
She’s a gryffindor tho
I think she's a Gryffindor.
She said shes a gryffindor and a seeker on the quidditch team
Chief Trumple: Leslie Knope gets as many favors as she needs.
Ben: May I ask why?
Chief Trumple: Because she's the kind of person who uses favors to help other people.
This sums up Leslie Knope so perfectly. She's high strung and ridiculous, but she's the best person that you know.
It really is a great show, about a woman who cares about her career without being cold/unempathic.
It’s kinda sad how those traits are always automatically paired with ambition. But even when I see people in real life with these traits it’s a turn off. You don’t have to be cold, crass, and standoffish to be an ambitious person.
*Writers, directors and people in general, should LEARN from Leslie Knope's character how a female lead should be written and expressed through media / literature.*
Not through overexagerated tragedy, not a princess acting like a tomboy, nor being a badass warrior that can kick any man down. Just by writing and treating women like any human being. An individual with emotions and layers. But never reduced by just simple act or quirk. Because Leslie Knope, is flawed, dorky, hardworking and inspired her own strenght through feminity and ambitions without losing herself onto it. She always want to do the right thing and cares about Pawnee. Likes eating waffles, believe in the goverment and tends to be overdramatic. But by end of the day, she is a human. Like any of us, with relatable struggles and emotions.
*EDIT:* Wanna add another thing. Thanks by a comment. Females characters that are warriors, villains, lovers or friends, queens, soldier of any position of power or normal people thar can do wonderful fears are ALSO good female characters. My two cents, is just as long, such individuals aren't reduced by TV tropes, cliches or stereotypes, I'm okay with that.
Just as this resume video says, not all heroes need to wear a cape. Sometimes, simple by working in a park deparment.
Agreed
@Darth Ruin Your words, not mine.
@Maria Paz G. I get what you're saying but I want my female characters to be as diverse as possible, I want them to be tragic, to be a tomboy princess, to be bada** warriors. I don't want them to be caricatures or one-note stereotypes. But I do want a tomboy princess or bada** female warrior who is also flawed, emotionally complex, and multi-layered. It's best to remember that womanhood isn't monolith, there are plenty for diverse representation of different kinds of female characters in media/literature.
Facts
@@neosoontoretro True. I have nothing against those titles. I just don't like exagerations. Women that are complex, flawed yet relatable. Female figures that can be warriors, queens, friends, lovers, villians or heroes and anything in general. Either fantasy or slice of life. That's amazing. As long such traits and personality are well balanced in the story. The thing is, that need to be well written and how they are expressed within the narrative, I'm okay with that. I just don't want to be reduced by that label or too rushed.
I am a 29 year old Dominican male who is also a combat veteran.... and I am telling you Leslie Knope isn’t just a woman’s woman, she’s just a great human being period. I can’t tell you how many times I got out of a fire fight in Iraq and watched parks and rec just to see knope remind me wtf I was fighting for and put a smile on my face
I love Galentine's Day. I love that it was NOT scheduled for Valentine's Day. So many shows have their "strong female character" celebrate an anti-Valentine's Day, inviting all the single women to support each other and complain about men. But this plays into the age-old trope of single ladies hating married/partnered ladies, plus a new trope of seeing women who settle down as "failures" of feminism. Galentine's Day (& Leslie Knope) celebrates women in every step of their life.
Also, while writing this I somehow (???) thought about Tammy 2, and how she's an interesting inversion of the "crazy stalker woman" trope. I honestly might die when/if you guys put out a Ron Swanson analysis.
I feel like tammy 2 breaks the trope because Ron goes just as crazy as her and Leslie and Ron’s other friends are trying to get him out of the toxic relationship.
Please do an essay about April's character growth.
Yes! I loved her and I can relate to her in so many ways!
I hope they do it for Every character like they did with friends
I hate her, in a good way lol.
She was very poorly written
I've been waiting for someone to cut together and describe her and Ben's relationship for so long. It makes me realize how amazingly perfect they are for each other.
Leslie and Ben are one of my fave tv couples to this day; while watching Brooklyn 99 Peraltiago always felt like some sorta of legacy of them.
@@biazacha yeah same! Peraltiago & Benslie are my favorite fictional romances of all time too!
I definitely think you guys could get a great video essay out of Ron Swanson and the really complex and unique class of male character he embodies and grows into throughout the show. His relationship with Leslie definitely can be explored more, too!
Oh ScreenPrism, you beautiful tropical fish, thank you for this video
"I've gone on record saying that if I had to have a stripper name, it would be equality." Oh my god I forgot about that line, haha I'm dying :'D
Leslie Knope is one of the reasons I want to go into government work, she really makes you think about how the little things you do make a difference in the world. This show is so so positive and an amazing influence for everyone. I love it.
Kennedy Robinson
Word of advice: all of this, is la la land Drivel. Good entertainment, but nowhere near what actual government is. It’s slimy, Corrupt, and self serving. Only by stepping on others toes do you get things done.
The Crimson fucker Well yeah, that is inevitable
I love Leslie Knope, she’s always inspiring and with exploding positive energy. Need that in my life
Please start a parks and rec series!! there's so much about this show that needs to be analized (the way they portrait relationships (romantic and platonic) the growth of the characters, how they deal with failure, etc) and also it's so much fun
Ben and Leslie are my favorite couple from any tv show. I would love an essay analyzing their relationship!
I love Parks and Rec so much!!! So wholesome and funny. Schur does an amazing job with every show he works in
So true! I've been loving the good place - Schur is so talented!
One of televisions most inspiring women, as explained by some of RUclips’s most inspiring women.
Damn straight! :D
When the show ended I was so sad. I was amazed that it got better and better with each season. I can't remember any show that did that. I also said that everyone needs a friend like Leslie Knope because as committed as she was to the passion of government she improved the lives of everyone she brought into her life. The finale was the most satisfying finale ever to me because while I was sad the show ended it gave necessary closure.
So happy to see so many people are thrilled about this video. It just proves there're sooo many people out there who are truly good human beings and want to spend their time in this world doing good and being good to themselves and others. There are hundreds of great shows and then there's Parks and Rec. I remember the first time I watched it and when I got to the finale I instantly went back to watch the reruns. It's one of those shows (the only one for me personally, but..) you don't want to think that one day they would come to an end and you will no longer be able to follow on the life of the people you somehow got so attached to and became family or best friends. The characters live in you, and I'm not talking only about Leslie. I equally loved Ron Swanson and Donna and April and Ann. Oh Ann! The poetic noble land-mermaid. Who doesn't crave an Ann in their lives. A full-time nurse who magically seems to have all the time for her friend. I just can go on and on, on how much I love the show. Thank you ScreenPrism!
Amy Poehler did an absolutely magnificent job at portraying Leslie!
I love how you covered Leslie and Bens relationship but I’d love a whole video about just that. I’ve always found it so interesting that Ben takes a traditional female role in the relationship while still demonstrating male characteristics. He likes sports, and even punches a man who calls Leslie a bitch which is traditionally very masculine but he makes real sacrifices in his career to further Leslie’s which is traditionally what women do for their relationships. The switch the typical gender rolls but both and still masculine and feminine when they do so. It would be interesting to see a take on the impacts of that
The show has some good writing because most would simply have the character either abandon all of thier traditional gender traits for the roll switch or keep their traditional gender traits
I agree. I hope they can make a video that further explores this interesting relationship.
Thanks you! this is exactly why i loved Parks and Rec but didn't like the Office. There's a sort of mean vibe coming from the office while Parks and Rec is so hopeful!
I love both... feels like Parcs is the work enviroment we wish we have and The Office the cold reality.
The Office gets rather hopeful by the end of its run.
Only watch 5 episodes of season 1 so far. It's too cynical for me to binge watch it.
@@TheMajorStranger oh season 1 is a major cringefest. It actually is hard to get through it. But don't worry, there is actually only 1 episode left in this season. Once you make it to season 2 it becomes much better and much more watchable, I promise you.
Season 2 is exponentially better than season 1 - when I first watched it I thought I wouldn't like it, all through the first season (I kept thinking "really? Is this what the hype is all about?") Stick with it. You won't regret it!
Just reminded me that I should do a rewatch.
Can I just say, that as a dude, I really look up to Leslie, and that those lines you used in your opening from P&R: "If I come on strong, it's because I feel strongly", are ones that I try to live by, so I just wanted to say that she isn't just a woman's woman, but everyone's person. I don't want her getting closed off, or me feeling like if I try to be like her, or try to mimic some of her traits, that I'd be coming off too feminine. I just want to be a good person who cares for people, and she's the perfect example of that, regardless of gender.
Being feminine or emulating women are not bad things
She isn't one or the other. She is for sure a person who works hard to better the world for all people but she is also a very committed feminist who does a lot specifically for women and girls and never really does anything specifically for men(which I am cool with)
I identify with this comment the most. Leslie is a great person and I love her.
Once again my eyes are opened by seeing things through a woman's point of view, thanks to Screenprism. Thank you, ladies!
ALL of the women in Parks and Recreation (yes, even April) were fantastically written. What I enjoyed about Leslie, as well as Ann, in particular, is that they were just normal women. Leslie isn't some badass warrior trying to take down the men in government, but she's also not some overemotional stereotype. She's a woman who cares for people, and cares for her country. She loves her friends, she loves having fun, and she loves work. And despite the show featuring strong female characters, it never put down men in order to do so. None of the male characters were written as villains who hate women (although Tom's behavior at times was questionable) and everyone was truly equal. I wish the world were more like Pawnee, I wish more people were like Leslie Knope, and most of all, I wish more sitcoms were as optimistic and warm as Parks and Rec.
Oh I really can't describe my joy upon seeing a video essay on Leslie Knope from ScreenPrism
You guys need to do more parks and rec!!! Specifically more Ann and Leslie I never got over Ann leaving it still breaks my heart
Leslie and Ben as well as April and Andy showed that a couple getting together doesn’t have to be a jump the shark moment and happy couples can be a part of great story telling and character development.
The best thing about Leslie Knope is that she is a very earnest character without an ounce of cynicism! In today's world earnestness is frowned upon and is often ridiculed. If someone is being vulnerable or really earnest, that person is labelled as embarassing. Earnest feelings should always be hidden under a barb of cheeky sarcasm or caustic witty cynicism, because that is what is perceived as cool. Leslie Knope is such an welcome departure in that regard.
people in tv should watch how leslie knope is written and take notes. this is how you write an original and inspirational character without falling victim to the cliches
I love Leslie Knope... When I grow up, I want to be her. I'm 35
*You're a rocket ship!*
Shout-out to Mike Schur for creating several highly successful comedies that accurately portray women as people with traits, not plot devices to the "funny man"!
Good god, I melted at the way you introduced Ben and Leslie's relationship.
I would love a video on Leslie’s relationship with Ben, how it’s the ultimate fantasy relationship for women. I would also like to see Leslie and Ron’s relationship discussed, because she loves Ron and Ron loves and respects her - even though they are different. She would do anything for him and he would do anything for her. Also! I would love to see a video on Leslie and April, how Leslie is April’s mentor (though Ron is April’s real support) and while April doesn’t want Leslie’s love, she ultimately accepts it and desires it. I know you touch on all of these things in your video, but it would be nice to expound on it. Esp. Leslie and April.
"hear my womanly roar"
andy + the smol boys: "ROOOOAAARR"
This video makes me wanna cry, especially the part about Ben, he didn't pay lip service he actually supported and sacrificed for her. Leslie Knope is wonder woman.
Shoutout to Leslie knope for being one of the best female characters of all time😂💯
I love love love love how your insights are feminine and value-based; it’s so refreshing and heartwarming. THANK YOU.
I’m pulling out this video in my next argument about why I think parks and rec is better than the office
Emily Raye thank you so many people think the office is better. They’re both great shows and both funny but parks and Rec is just better quality in my opinion.
Even though it's not
@@bgraziano6867 it's got more heart and it's earnest
The Office is equally amazing, but you cannot put it on repeat for a year like I did with Parks and Rec. I feel The office Characters are 80% selfish, mean, manipulative, opportunist, ... and only 20% nice, caring, passionate about their job, ..., while it's the other way around for Parks and Rec characters. April Ludgate and Tom Haverford are the "meanest" characters in the latter show, but can anyone really hate them? I know I sort of hate Angela Martin and Ryan Howard from The Office. Even Jim and Pam are not that nice or caring about their colleagues. Couple goals though.
+Zulaikha Mohamed I actually really hate Tom. He's vain, arrogant, disrespectful to pretty much everyone except Donna yet constantly asks them for help, and self serving. He has a grating singing voice and he's always singing. He thinks highly of himself even though he has no reason to. At least the office acknowledges when the characters are unlikable and they actually have redeemable qualities.
Leslie is actually one of the best female characters ever written. Heck, not just female, she’s one of my favorite protagonists ever. All the characters on this show are so well done.
I hated season 1. I was just glad I stuck until season 2. Awesome series!
Ambiguous Zami I agree season 1 wasn’t good but the rest just gets better
I hadn't watched it when it orignally aired but had it on my "list" to watch. Season 1 was hard to get through. A friend encouraged me to do it and I'm really glad I did. Such a delightful show and Leslie makes me so happy. You just want to adopt a little Leslie Knope-positivity in your day everyday when things aren't going so right.
That's why I like p&r! It's warm, optimistic, and refreshing.
Leslie Knope is a great role model. ☺
When people ask me why I love Parks and Rec so much, I will show them this video.
Parks&rec is THE show that just makes you feel great. Leslie is the best
You've just reminded me why I love Leslie Knope. ☺ Thank you!
One of the greatest main characters i've ever seen.
THAT'S how its done!
I LOVE Leslie Knope! Knope 2020!!!!
You did a Parks and Recreation video on treat yo self day!
This is a really amazing video so often when I think of my favorite characters on tv or in movies it’s male protagonists that come to mind but this really makes me remember how significant and inspiring a character they made at parks and rec thanks for that keep up the good work
I share my birthday with Leslie Knope. 18th January. I was so happy to find out
I cry every time I watch the moment when Ann surprises Leslie in the finale. Every. Single. Time.
i just love parks and rec! Ron Swanson is one of the best characters ever put on TV
I am so disappointed seeing half the comments just wanting to talk about Ben or Ben's relationship with Leslie.
Can we seriously not stop at this wonderful character for a singular video!
*Thank you Mike Schur, for Leslie Knope, for Parks & Recs, The Good Place and so many other amazing shows*
Wow they didnt change her personality, they just changed the people reacting to her, and she went from being viewed as disrespected to respected. That kind of shows that it's not always within your control how you are viewed. Sometimes it's really just the people you are surrounded by. You dont have to change yourself, you have to choose the right people to surround yourself with.
Crap why do I feel like crying, Leslie is easily one of my favourite characters, her positivity just makes me smile, I need to rewatch this series!
Do a Brooklyn 99 video, maybe one on captain holt? ;)
I would DIE of happiness if that happens
She is just the most heartwarming character on television. She just makes me want to give her a hug.
Leslie Knope is my Spirit Animal, She'd be proud of the work you did on this video...
Props to Mose.
all the props
Can't wait for the Jean-Ralphio Saperstein video!
I honestly love rewatching Parks and Rec every few years because the show makes me feel so good and wholesome
There was an article I read on 'strong female leads' in media just being woman that adopt masculine traits and ideals in order to be perceived as strong like single minded determination, aggression and unwavering beliefs. I think Leslie Knope is exactly what that article was calling for, a strong female character whose strength comes through her feminine characteristics. She's a strong FEMALE. Not another male character they shoved in an attractive female body.
Just cried through an episode of Handmaid's Tale....NEEDED this, thank you!
Leslie Knope is the quintessence of what feminism should be :)
i cried when this show ended.. and im not the slightest bit ashamed.
This was great.. very nostalgic.
I just realized Michael Schur played Dwight Schrute's brother Mose.
cousin, actually haha ! Dwight’s brother and sister are Fanny and Jeb, a normal women with a child and strange weed farmer. you’d probably start to think that Mose is his brother tho, since he is there so much
It's interesting that you mentioned how Leslie Knope's character never changed from how she was in season one. I found her to be insufferable, and it felt like they were playing up the more neurotic, Type A personality traits, and the writers made her belligerently optimistic and productive, always pushing on her peers to do more and take on more when they clearly were just humoring her. But I'm wondering now if I was reacting to her because that was how I genuinely saw her being portrayed, or if I was being influenced by how the other characters on the show treated her. I never considered it before.
Whatever they did, it worked, and I'm glad the show set off in a different direction, because she's now one of my favorite television characters. They've written them so well, and so believably, that you actually could see them as real people in this reality. We all want a friend like Ann Perkins, we would love to work for a boss like Ron Swanson, we know that loveable dreamer like Tom, we want our own relationships to be as fun and loving as Andy and April's, and I wish that there were more women like Leslie Knope in public office.
They made a show that was funny without the need to punch down, or make a singular person the butt of every joke and putdown (except maybe Jerry, but he's living the good life, so who cares). That's why I looked forward to watching it, because the episodes were always uplifting, and the characters were people you actually liked. You know you've played a role so well when people are actually disappointed that you aren't really a couple in real life, or that they aren't really in government. But that's the neat thing about this show is that it not only reflected our desires and values, it has given us all new models to aspire to. That's the power of Leslie Knope.
Thank you for giving this amazing show some recognition . More of this please 💯❤️
Leslie Knope is legit my absolute favourite feminist in pop culture
Ugh....so good...I needed this today. You just gave me an injection of happiness watching this!!
Can you guys do a breakdown of Donna or Gary with a segment on their friendship? Those two have a sweet background relationship on the show that should be noticed more
Leslie is my favorite. When Parks and Rec aired I thought, "Finally a character I can relate to."
This is such a great video. Please do Andy Dwyer
this video convinced me to watch Parks and Rec. Leslie Knope the fictional character is everything I aspire to be in life, and I now carry a "Knope 2012" pin on my backpack to work every day
this video made me so hopeful and happy. im just glad a character like leslie knope is out there because thats honestly the ideal. and this video made me cry goodnight.
I need more analysis videos on Parks and Rec characters! Also please do Brooklyn Nine Nine.
itsjustmesam Brooklyn nine nine makes me feel good too! And bobs burgers 🍔 I really enjoy shows that put me in a good mood
I know this video essay makes me cry every time I watch it, yet today is one of those days when i come here again, knowingly i'll be balling by the end.
God I love Parks and Recs. The earnestness in the show's stories and characters and how it presents its message are incredibly endearing. Characters are rarely caricatures like sitcoms tend to do. Every decision has consequence. Although coming from the same creator, you can feel that it is not a show where behaviors like pranking your desk mate 24/7 or getting a work mate a heart attack just to teach fire safety can get away.
It also lost some steam toward the end like many sitcoms, but thanks to a deep self consciousness, it never plummated like The Office since Michael left the show.
Andy was the biggest charicature of almost any show I've ever seen.
Actually, they are almost all charicatures. That's a big part of the humor.
Someone told me once that I reminded them of Leslie Knope and it's still one of the best compliments I've ever received.
Leslie is my role model
I've just finished rewatching Parks and Rec a couple of weeks ago, by which time I had already come across your channel and fallen in love with your beautifully insightful videos, and was wondering if you'd ever shine the spotlight on P&R characters. I am so happy to see that you have!
I just adopted a three legged dog and called him champion
I love this
You are also a champion!
is he good at digging?
Brilliant video! Leslie is definitely one of the best written TV characters of all time and one of my favorites (and Parks and Recreation is my favorite show of all time). She's truly a role model for all (men and women alike).
I love Leslie so much. This video made me cry. Thank you.
Please do one on Broad City! The friendship between abbi and ilana is one of the best depictions of female friendships I’ve ever seen. It’s really pure and not filled with any underlying hate or jealousy.
I love this channel sooo much.... it’s like my soulmate to overthink stuff I watch
You girls should do more videos about Parks and Rec!!! This one was incredible :)
This is such a wholesome, positive video and has given me that extra push to start Parks & Rec from the beginning again! I'd been thinking of going back and starting the series over since I regrettably stopped watching years ago after several seasons, but I kinda hesitated bc I already have sooo many shows on my plate. But I'm 100% inspired now. I really did always appreciate the variety of female personalities on the show.
Holy cow!!! I love Park&rec and I love Leslie knope and what a phenomenal breakdown!! you please have done I really hope you guys continue to do more as special parks and rec and the office!!!
I was crying the whole time. Thank you for making this video . She is a gem
Leslie Knope taught me how to deal with failure and lack of acknowledgment. Honestly the best example I could ever have