Although not a ratings powerhouse, NBC's Community enjoys critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. During this third season, the show really gelled into one of TV's cleverest and most consistently creative sitcoms. An ensemble piece ostensibly centered around Jeff (Joel McHale)—nominal leader of a group of friends who met as a study group at a community college—the focus has shifted somewhat to the brilliant rapport between best buds and roommates Troy and Abed (Donald Glover and Danny Pudi), who live in their own fantasy world of role-playing and pop-culture immersion. The pair's dynamic serves as the springboard that launches the season's most memorable storyline involving a college-wide pillow-fight civil war directed in the manner of a Ken Burns documentary (complete with narration by Keith David). Community also lays waste to Glee, Doctor Who, Law & Order, the holo-deck of Star Trek: The Next Generation, and other recognizable cultural icons. Ultimately, what makes the show hum is a combination of fine character chemistry and winning writing, with the zany comments flying fast and furious through every study meeting and lunch gathering. Since this is the last run with brilliant creator/producer Dan Harmon at the helm, it's hard to know what the future may bring. Compiling all 22 episodes from the 2011–12 third season, DVD extras include audio commentaries, deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and gag reels. Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker)
Community: The Complete Third Season
Sony, 3 discs, 467 min., not rated, DVD: $45.99 Volume 27, Issue 6
Community: The Complete Third Season
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