Gladden’s genuine reactions are funny, expressing his silly side in the process. The best moments occur whenever he interacts with James Marsden and his showboating Primadonna persona. Marsden, being the only notable face, has Gladden a bit starstruck at first. The two list all the movies Marsden starred in, but Ron admits he didn’t see “Sonic the Hedgehog” because he heard “it sucked.” The laughs hit even harder as Gladden reveals a certain late 2000s raunchy comedy as his favorite Marsden movie, making it a running gag that always calls for a laugh whenever mentioned. Marsden is the show’s MVP, and he takes the comedy higher with his consistently obnoxious behavior and comic timing. He doesn’t share the same improv experience as his co-stars so it’s impressive how he always keeps it professional and commits to his diva demeanor with comical results.
The show’s unique structure serves as a strong improv showcase for the lesser-known talent onscreen, with Alan Barinholtz, Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, David Brown, Kirk Fox, Mekki Leeper, Edy Modica, Maria Russell, and Ishmel Sahid as notable standouts. “Jury Duty” sometimes has the same chill, relaxing vibe as the video game “Animal Crossing.” Gladden is the Villager and must aid all the quirky, colorful strangers he interacts with on their island and better his relationship and friendship with them, despite that island being within the halls of a courtroom.
“Jury Duty” keeps its laughs and premise at a moderate level, treading lightly in its absurdism. It doesn’t necessarily keep audiences hooked for laughter, and outrageous workplace shenanigans are kept at a minimum. But it’s not the right length despite its low-key charms, like so much TV lately. The novelty of the premise starts to run its course at the halfway mark, with even Marsden’s wackiness losing its flair. However, what it lacks in laughs, “Jury Duty” makes up for in charm, and its beating heart makes this comedy series stand out.
The last prank on the audience by “Jury Duty” is how it wrings our emotions more than belly laughs. It’s a solid workplace comedy that tells a resonant story of community, delightfully unpacking how it’s not just about serving in this world but who you’re serving with.
Whole season was screened for review. “Jury Duty” premieres on Freevee on April 7th.
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