British parliamentary politics forms the driving force in this 2007 BBC series, which revolves around young politicos—twentysomething MP advisors and assistants—in the lower rungs of power. Andrew Buchan is Scott Foster, an ambitious lobbyist, and Shelley Conn is Ashika Chandrimani, the cunning Tory strategist who leaves her fast-rising boss and lover, James Northcote (Patrick Baladi), in order to make her own run for political office. The most familiar face to American audiences here is Matt Smith, the engaging young actor who took over the title role in the British sci-fi series Doctor Who. Here he exudes charm, boyish energy, and comic bounce as Danny Foster (Scott's brother), an idealistic researcher to Labor Party MP Jo Porter (Raquel Cassidy). While the unique culture of British parliamentary rule isn't exactly compelling, the more-familiar world of back-office maneuvering, cold-blooded calculation, morality (or lack thereof) under pressure, and soap opera romance doesn't differ much from the American brand. An engaging if somewhat insubstantial romp with a cast of attractive young actors, Party Animals was canceled after the first season. Compiling all eight episodes, this is an optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)
Party Animals
BFS, 3 discs, 380 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 July 4, 2011
Party Animals
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