When it comes to NBC's Parks and Recreation, midway into Season 2, almost every episode that follows is a gift. The series gives viewers one of the best Christmas episodes through "Citizen Knope" and even a sensational version of a shotgun wedding in "Ben and Leslie." There's a reason the series is a comfort watch for its fans and why cast appearances on SNL years later still result in trending topics on the internet. Parks and Recreation got many things right in its seven-year run, and ultimately Greg Daniels and Mike Schur got plenty right every time they brought their core characters together for ensemble episodes.
It's a rare beauty in any series when the ensemble cast is just as adored as the main characters. In some cases, they fail to leave a lasting impact because the writing doesn't allow them to stand on their own two feet while centering around a few characters. Parks and Recreation not only understood what to do but by adding Adam Scott's Ben Wyatt and Rob Lowe's Chris Traeger into the pot, creating an even bigger ensemble, the writers made the show better. And for this reason, Season 4, Episode 9, "The Trial of Leslie Knope" is perfect in how it shines a light on its ensemble to uplift its heroine with a nail-biting yet thoroughly satisfying narrative.
It Solidifies Ben and Leslie's Endgame
There are a few things that make "The Trial of Leslie Knope" a perfect episode of television, but it's especially memorable for the fans rooting for Ben Wyatt and Leslie Knope's relationship to progress. The ethics trial not only brings it out in the open, but also proves that theirs is the endgame romance in the series. The slow burn, rivals to friends to lovers, shoots to a promising territory during this episode when Ben Wyatt proves to all characters (and inadvertently viewers) why he's the ultimate TV boyfriend. When it becomes clear that their decision to bribe a city employee is a Fireable Offense, Ben makes a choice off-screen to admit to all faults and resigns.
As a character introduced to the audience as a stickler who cares maybe a little too much about his job, Ben's actions here show that he cares far more about Leslie. "I love you's" are also exchanged in this episode and rather hilariously through the late Helen Slayton-Hughes' Ethel Beavers. Still, even if that weren't the case, Ben's actions show viewers everything necessary. He wouldn't resign for just anybody or even someone he merely had feelings for — he'd do it for the one person who means the world to him. The one person Chris Traeger solidifies is the only one deserving such a sacrifice. It's been happily ever after since that moment for the two of them, bringing concrete proof to Ben's words about all of it being worth the risk.
It Brings Friendships Center Stage
Season 4 of Parks and Recreation is best where the friendships are concerned, and so much of it relies on showing the audience how characters are willing to give back for Leslie Knope. As a character, we know from the moment we meet her that there's nothing she isn't ready to do for those she cares for, and "The Trial of Leslie Knope," like "Citizen Knope," shows that the same goes for them. As they each testify for Leslie, some bringing their alter-egos like Janet Snakehole into the mix, they exhibit their willingness to put themselves through anything for her.
Further, there's also something to be said about how much the process visibly pains Chris despite the detail that he feels obligated to do it because of his code. Chris hates this process more than anybody, but at the same time, he's the one person who's still finding his footing in the group. However, his decision to carry on the trial doesn't put a bind on anything because, as time goes on, they understand him better too. The episode might end with Ben resigning and Leslie suspended, but it's the type of character and relationship-driven episode that pushes the narrative to where it needs to go.
It Gives Viewers Great "Reaction" Moments
Parks and Recreation has many meme-worthy reactions that stand the test of time, and some of the most relatable ones are born in this episode. In the cold open, Nick Offerman's Ron Swanson learns about how internet cookies track his time on the internet, then immediately walks outside to throw his computer into the dumpster. The shot of Ron throwing his computer away is often used on the internet when shows or films frustrate fans or if they read a "bad take" somewhere. In the same episode, we watch him actively refuse to say his address aloud and catch him in the act of knowing that Megan Mullally's Tammy II is close by.
"The Trial of Leslie Knope" also gives us an excellent meltdown line many have likely used with their best friend, which is Leslie telling Ann that she needs to text her every three seconds that everything will be okay. Finally, there's the hilarious "crying noise; crying noise; nose blow," which Ethel reads aloud when recounting Chris' reaction to learning that Ben loves Leslie. It's a ridiculously accurate reaction not only for Ben and Leslie as a romantic pair, but also for many of the great ones in the media. There's a high chance that Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Charles Boyle, the ultimate "shipper," would also agree.