Andy Barker, P.I.: The Complete Series

It's a mystery why this immensely likeable and disarmingly off-center comedy, co-created by Conan O'Brien, was cancelled after a mere six episodes (all compiled here) by NBC in 2007. With an unpredictable sense of humor that subverts traditional sitcom rhythms, the show stars Andy Richter as Andy Barker, a CPA who launches his own business in a strip mall office once occupied by now-retired, hardboiled private eye Lew Staziak (Harve Presnell). When potential clients looking for Lew visit Andy's office, the accountant doesn't have the heart to turn them down, so he reluctantly takes on detective work as a sideline. Richter receives able support from Tony Hale as sidekick Simon, a jumpy video store manager who supplies the show with the bulk of its movie references; Marshall Manesh as Wally, an Afghan restaurant owner who “went a little overboard” on the patriotism after 9/11; and Clea Lewis as Andy's initially skeptical wife, Jenny. The compact mysteries are actually pretty clever, with each episode title taking its cue from a classic, such as “Fairway, My Lovely,” “The Big No Sleep,” and “Dial M for Laptop.” DVD extras include cast and crew commentaries for each episode, a half-hour retrospective on the series by cast members, a “Writers 101” roundtable with some illuminating insights into comedy writing; and a gag reel. Well worth rediscovering, this is definitely recommended. (D. Liebenson)