The Office Season 5 Thread

[Crapshoot]

I'm on the West Coast, and 2 hrs to go! I'm psyched.

[DeToxRox]

You'll enjoy it.

[samifan24]

I thought it was okay, not too funny but I guess they had to tie up a lot of the loose ends from the end of last season.

[GrantDawg]

It was good. There was good laugh out loud moments. Now that we know how Ryan gets back, I wonder how Toby will. And also what is going to happen when Pam gets out of school.

[Crapshoot]

I enjoyed it. Ryan was frigging hilarious when he came back and put the earpiece on. And Creed selling Kelly the worm - awesome. :D

A

[DanGarion]

Funniest line of the night was when Dwight said it was ok to hold it in your mouth if you didn't want to swallow.... I couldn't stop laughing at the look on Jim, his reaction, and the straight face of Michael.

[Joe]

So Ryan defrauds the company and they hire him back?

[Butter]

It's ok, because he still hasn't fully processed 9/11.

[bryce]

I thought this one a really strong episode. Many "LOL" moments, if you will.

The looks on everyone's faces trying to calculate Pam's weight still makes me laugh. "Math is hard."

[GrantDawg]

So Ryan defrauds the company and they hire him back?


It is a llittle hard to buy, but Micheal said he hired him from the temp company. So there is at least a little barrier there to say the company didn't hire him back.

[MikeVic]

I think the whole Angela/Dwight thing is kinda weird. Maybe they're meant for each other so much that they act like completely different people when around each other.

[ISiddiqui]

I thought it was pretty good :).

When Holly reveals she thinks Kevin is retarded is absolutely hilarious. She really is a female Michael, isn't she?

And, of course, Michael blows it with her again by ripping up the tickets (ask her, you moron!).

"Who's your daddy? You don't know do you!" LOL

Kelly making out with Darryl in front of Ryan was gold as well. As well as her thinking that Creed sold her a tapeworm pill, LOL!

[MikeVic]

I'll say though that I liked these two episodes over a lot of the stuff last year. Michael had one bone-headed mistake (the tickets), but still had some stuff that made him likable. Angela is such a bitch. I'm glad they got the Jim and Pam engagement out of the way too. It was a nice moment. And Michael saying they have to stand in the same spots for weight displacement lol.

[ISiddiqui]

Oh, I almost forgot my favorite line... when Andy was trying to find places for the wedding, he suggested the Rhode Island one saying something like "its the place where my parents decided not to get divorced", LOL! Unfortunately it made me do a spit take and I got red wine all over my shirt. (was quickly cleaned to prevent stainage though) :(

[larrymcg421]

I love that he went to Cornell with the groundskeeper.

[DaddyTorgo]

i thought it was just alright - i laughed but i wasn't in stitches

[johnnyshaka]

"I wonder what everybody likes about me....it's probably my jugs."

[MikeVic]

She has a great ass.

[Racer]

So Ryan defrauds the company and they hire him back?

I would imagine he is technically employed by the temp agency he signed up with.

[DeToxRox]

I love that Here Comes the Trebble is the deal breaker.

Lunchbox sounds like a helluva guy

[GoldenEagle]

I am a bit surprised that they solved two of the season's main story lines so quickly. The first being the Jim/Pam engagement and the second being what happened to Ryan. I would imagine the last episode of the season will be the Jim and Pam wedding.

Angela seems to be conflicted but looks to be finding away to get out of the wedding. I would imagine that whole thing will blow up eventually.

Creed continues to crack me up. His one-liners really add to the show. I hope they keep him in the same capacity. "I am going to take this to my shelter" cracked me up.

I thought it was a good episode. Like someone said, they had a lot of issues to tie up and it was a quick moving episode.

[samifan24]

My mom saw this episode and wondered out loud if Angela is pregnant. If you rewatch it, there are some things which might constitute hints.

[MikeVic]

Maybe that's why they weren't losing as much weight as a group? And I know she said "my doctor wants me to put on weight."

[GrantDawg]

Maybe that's why they weren't losing as much weight as a group? And I know she said "my doctor wants me to put on weight."


In my mind as well. Also, notice that that Andy said he wanted a 6-pack for the first time Angela saw him naked. If she's pregnant, the jig is up. It is also funny this isn't the first time a show would right in a pregnancy after the actor had a baby.

[larrymcg421]

I think that might be too much baby drama in the show. (see: Jan). While I can certainly see why they'd think this story has potential, it would feel like the show has run out of ideas and is repeating itself. I similarly had problems with the deus ex proposal in the finale because it had already been done in Booze Cruise.

[Draft Dodger]

I definitely thought they were dropping Angela hints.

I forget, how did Ryan lose his job?

[MikeVic]

I think Ryan lied about sales through the website?

[Draft Dodger]

oh yeah, that's it. thanks.

[GoldenEagle]

Right. He double booked sales through the website, which was constituted as fraud. I am guessing the judge just gave him community service. I think they changed his character a bit.

One thing they did not touch on was who took Ryan's place at corporate. I think it would be hilarious to bring Toby into this position but I don't see that happening.

[Galaxy]

My mom saw this episode and wondered out loud if Angela is pregnant. If you rewatch it, there are some things which might constitute hints.

She actually was pregnant last year (in real life).

[samifan24]

She actually was pregnant last year (in real life).

I know, I saw some of the videos Angela and Jenna put up on NBC.com.

Here's a question: did Dunder Mifflin corporate ever find out about Ryan's drug habit?

[Raiders Army]

When Holly reveals she thinks Kevin is retarded is absolutely hilarious. She really is a female Michael, isn't she?

I thought they set that up really nicely with the conversation between Holly and Oscar about gays and lesbians. She left that not knowing what to think. Was he kidding or not?

Then, she's left wondering if he really is mentally handicapped or not because Oscar just messed with her.

The best part was with Ryan coming back and writing down the names. He left his hand out there for a long time before Jim shook it.

I wonder who Michael's boss is now? Maybe that's how they bring Toby back?

[ISiddiqui]

I love that he went to Cornell with the groundskeeper.

OH yeah, LOL! I love the lines they just drop in there, that you may miss if you aren't paying attention.

[Calis]

My favorite line had to be when Ryan was explaining his downward spiral and said something along the lines of, "I don't think I ever really processed 9/11."

It was a decent episode. Nothing spectacular but I enjoyed it.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I finally watched the episode from last week about the ethics seminar. It was one of the funniest episodes (outside of last season's finale) that I've seen in a while, probably since "The Depoisition." Some great stuff in there. Many laugh out loud moments.

[Crapshoot]

Yeah, last week was frigging awesome - Jim and Dwight with the stopwatch, the wedding gifts bit. :D

[ISiddiqui]

Dwight taking almost 20 minutes off (we know why), and Jim calling him on it with Dwight basically saying "who the fuck cares" was awesome.

Though I was on the floor when the senior HR person was like, ok, it's a bit unethical, but we're saving freaking money!!!

And then Michael saying "How do you tell someone you care about very much, told you so?" LOL

[GrantDawg]

Dwight taking almost 20 minutes off (we know why), and Jim calling him on it with Dwight basically saying "who the fuck cares" was awesome.

Though I was on the floor when the senior HR person was like, ok, it's a bit unethical, but we're saving freaking money!!!

And then Michael saying "How do you tell someone you care about very much, told you so?" LOL


Yeah, pretty good stuff.

[Dr. Sak]

Phillis we gave you your shower in here. We all gave you a big Golden Shower...

HAHAHA

[Dr. Sak]

Jan: The afterbirth floats
Creed: Must have been like the tide at Omaha Beach

[PineTar]

Jan: The afterbirth floats
Creed: Must have been like the tide at Omaha Beach

Possibly the greatest line of the entire series

[samifan24]

I must be the only person that hasn't liked the last few episodes. I thought tonight's ep had a few good lines but really wasn't that funny. If the Jan character isn't really a wedge between Michael and Holly, what's the point in keeping the character around?

[Sublime 2]

I must be the only person that hasn't liked the last few episodes. I thought tonight's ep had a few good lines but really wasn't that funny. If the Jan character isn't really a wedge between Michael and Holly, what's the point in keeping the character around?

I loved the episode before this, but this weeks was really kinda blah for me.

[GoldenEagle]

I must be the only person that hasn't liked the last few episodes. I thought tonight's ep had a few good lines but really wasn't that funny. If the Jan character isn't really a wedge between Michael and Holly, what's the point in keeping the character around?

I agree. I think the episodes this season have lost the drama angle. In season 2/3, it was the whole Jim/Pam/Roy thing that kept it people on the edge of their seats. In season 4, the development of Jim/Pam as well as Angela/Dwight and Michael/Jan. The show has also been based on relationships. The 3 episodes of the season so far have been funny, but there has been no drama involved.

I think the writers should have held on to the Ryan card a little bit longer and maybe the Jim/Pam engagement. I do think things will pick up once Pam gets back and the whole Angela/Dwight thing is blown. But it seems so far the episodes have just been centered on Micheal.

I did like the whole Baby Daddy thing last night and Creed's line.

[GoldenEagle]

Oh yea, and Jan singing about losing her virginity by a church.

[Ajaxab]

Creed's line was great. The baby picture board scene was funny too.

[DeToxRox]

I'm so sick of Jim and Pam. Jim's whole not caring shtick is wearing me thin. Andy continues to be awesome though. He has been clutch this season, as well as last. He has been the MVP for the last season and change, in my opinion.

[ISiddiqui]

"I performed my own circumcision" LOL

Creed's Omaha Beach was good as well.

But this seemed to be a more plot/character driven episode than one that was gut bustingly funny. Still funny, but it seemed it was more to move the show along. Get Michael with Holly and get him sick of Jan.

I don't understand the "Jim's whole not caring shtick" comment. Is that based on following Pam's conversation? I thought the whole point of that scene was to show how some people launch into these in depth conversations involving multiple people doing things and expect the other person to keep everything straight like they were there... and getting frustrated/mad when they don't.

[Flasch186]

Possibly the greatest line of the entire series

acreed

[Raiders Army]

I don't understand the "Jim's whole not caring shtick" comment.

Not to speak for DeTox, but I think it was more in reference to his attitude about work.

I'd say that Jim's schtick about being the "cool guy" is wearing thin a bit. If the job is so bad and the people you work with aren't cool and you could do so much better, quit. I think he would never quit because he'd be worried about Pam cheating on him. I would be too.

For some reason, the women depicted in the show are very whorish. Pam, Angela, Meredith, Jan, Kelly...maybe not Phyllis.

[GrantDawg]

Not to speak for DeTox, but I think it was more in reference to his attitude about work.

I'd say that Jim's schtick about being the "cool guy" is wearing thin a bit. If the job is so bad and the people you work with aren't cool and you could do so much better, quit. I think he would never quit because he'd be worried about Pam cheating on him. I would be too.

For some reason, the women depicted in the show are very whorish. Pam, Angela, Meredith, Jan, Kelly...maybe not Phyllis.


Pam is whorish? How so? She slept with Roy, here fiance for many years. And then she's slept with Jim whom she has known for many years. There hasn't been anyone else, even when she was "dating" last season.

[ISiddiqui]

Jim's attitude at work? I mean he does do the "cool guy", but not really caring about work and treating it as just a means to a paycheck isn't really all that rare or annoying (at least to me).

[DeToxRox]

My thing with Jim is his act is wearing thin because that type of person gets annoying after a while. It's the whole thing about him not caring about anything, he never shows any emotion, so he becomes a robot to me. Obviously he cares about Pam, but it seems so forced that it just can be painful to watch. It could just be me, but those two are going on five seasons without really doing anything, and the way the writers are writing this season, it seems inevitable they're going to make it seem like they'll break up a lot more times, only too get married and be totally happy.

I guess there is just too much romance going on in the show right now. Between Michael and Holly, Darrell and Kelly, Angela and Dwight, Angela and Andy, Pam and Jim, etc, it's just become too much and at the center of it is Jim and Pam.

[DeToxRox]

I don't think whorish is the right word but the girls in the show are all definetly casted in the same light. Besides looks, there is not much that distinguishes one from the other.

[GoldenEagle]

I thought tonight was the best episode of the season by far.

[mauchow]

Yup, lots of funny ass moments... Creed's lines... Wow.

Michael asking Holly if they were going to have sex that night... Hilarious. Oh, and he figured out a good quick way of saying "that's what she said.." never gets old!

[GrantDawg]

Yup, lots of funny ass moments... Creed's lines... Wow.

Michael asking Holly if they were going to have sex that night... Hilarious. Oh, and he figured out a good quick way of saying "that's what she said.." never gets old!


"The last person that did that to me? Creed Branton." Too funny.

[GrantDawg]

Oh, and Holly and Micheal are so super-cute together. It is good to see Micheal that happy for awhile (and not just happy because he is too stupid to realize he shouldn't be). But now we see the end coming.

BTW, interesting that haven't filled the Micheal's supervisor job yet. Wonder if they will and who it will be.

[GoldenEagle]

I figure David Wallace is freaking out over the news of Micheal and Holly. He did not seem happy at all. I think it was great of him to show up. I get the feeling that all branch managers are reporting directly to him now. I like Ryan's reaction when he saw David Wallace. Wallace had to have seen Ryan.

For the clamoring for a more caring Jim, there you go. I almost shit myself when Roy showed up. "Relax, I am not going to hit you."

The CrimeAid was funny as well. I knew Micheal would not have the tickets. It cracked me up when he was trying to raise a million dollars. I thought Darryl's gift was hilarious. No one wanted Kevin to do the taxes, LOL.

You know Dwight had to be holding that inside for awhile. The whole Dwight/Phyllis angle was weird, but well-played. Dwight letting the air out of her tires made me laugh pretty hard.

Like I said, I think it was the best episode of the season so far.

[lordscarlet]

The CrimeAid was funny as well. I knew Micheal would not have the tickets. It cracked me up when he was trying to raise a million dollars. I thought Darryl's gift was hilarious. No one wanted Kevin to do the taxes, LOL.


Did you notice that down toward the bubble it said "Goal: $3,xxx" (I forget the exact number) but the thermometer continued up to $1mil?

[samifan24]

I agree that this episode was the best of the season so far.

I like Wallace coming to the auction and I think it sets up for Holly's departure (the actress is on a limited contract from what I've read) and Toby's return. I like Holly and I think she has good chemistry with Michael so I'm hoping she'll at least be a recurring character if what I've read online turns out to be true.

I liked the Dwight/Phyllis angle and how Dwight felt bad in the end.

[panerd]

I loved Phyliss's husband's reaction to Michael teasing Bruce Springteen. Michael says Bruce and then her husband chants Bruuucccceee and then another Huey Lewis song comes on he just stops and just looks pissed.

[Crapshoot]

"You're safe with me. I'm a very good screamer."

[ISiddiqui]

Yeah, poor Michael & Holly. Wallace is going to make sure Holly leaves :(.

The best line was Michael saying they were going to sell people, like in the good old days, and Stanley's look.

[mrsimperless]

Paaaaaamohlaaaaaaaa

[mrsimperless]

I am right in assuming that Dwight is short for D-Money?

...

J-Money, or should it be T-Money... for Tuna


I noticed Andy on the Daily Show a few weeks ago. Love that guy. I hope Michael doesn't find out and fire him.

[DeToxRox]

The best line was:

"Now I am prone to surges!"

[mrsimperless]

She introduced me to so many things.

Pasteurized milk.

Sheets.

Monotheism.

Presents on your birthday, preventative medicine.



Even better on the 2nd viewing this week.

[mrsimperless]

Oh and Pam's drunk dial? She's definitely doing that dude.

Whore.

[mrsimperless]

I agree that this episode was the best of the season so far.

Any episode where Kelly doesn't open her mouth is golden.


And I loved the end of Darryl's story.

"She thought I was McNabb."

[MikeVic]

I liked how Dwight realized she was just trying to help him, and then he gets this determined look like he WILL win her hug. Then at $1000, he says "it's not worth it." Hahahaha.

[Raiders Army]

Pam is whorish? How so? She slept with Roy, here fiance for many years. And then she's slept with Jim whom she has known for many years. There hasn't been anyone else, even when she was "dating" last season.

Ugh. I was out for most of last week and didn't see this until now. It's not like I was ignoring you. :)

Anyhow, there's been this whole thing of Pam being loose. In the first season during the Basketball episode she was cheering for Jim. Last season, during the Dinner Party episode, Jan thought that she had slept with Michael and Angela called her the Office Mattress. I believe she's been called that before on another episode as well. The kicker, though, is the whole kissing Jim twice while engaged. That's just something you don't do. She did it during the Dundies episode the second season and the season finale of the third season.

Compound that with her telling Roy, Roy getting upset, and then she doesn't even warn Jim that she told Roy.

The whole Jim thing that's getting old is that he believes he's better than the other people who work there. While there have been a few episodes which explored the fact that he actually isn't (Survivorman, the one where they work late and forgets to tell the security guard they're working late), there's been no evolution of his character.

--break break--

The past episode was great and I agree the Creed Bratton line was the best.

[GrantDawg]

Ugh. I was out for most of last week and didn't see this until now. It's not like I was ignoring you. :)

Anyhow, there's been this whole thing of Pam being loose. In the first season during the Basketball episode she was cheering for Jim. Last season, during the Dinner Party episode, Jan thought that she had slept with Michael and Angela called her the Office Mattress. I believe she's been called that before on another episode as well. The kicker, though, is the whole kissing Jim twice while engaged. That's just something you don't do. She did it during the Dundies episode the second season and the season finale of the third season.

Compound that with her telling Roy, Roy getting upset, and then she doesn't even warn Jim that she told Roy.

The whole Jim thing that's getting old is that he believes he's better than the other people who work there. While there have been a few episodes which explored the fact that he actually isn't (Survivorman, the one where they work late and forgets to tell the security guard they're working late), there's been no evolution of his character.

--break break--

The past episode was great and I agree the Creed Bratton line was the best.


You have different definition of "whorish." You count a drunk peck as something, which wasn't. Then she did kiss Jim twice, but also called off her wedding shortly after. Not very whorish. Angela calling her the "office mattress" is Angela being the bitch she is, and Micheal claiming he had dated her makes her whorish? You have strange thought patterns.

[ISiddiqui]

You have different definition of "whorish."

Truth.

[lordscarlet]

Compared to sleeping with Dwight in the store room while engaged to Andy, I would say Pam is a prude.

[Raiders Army]

We shall see. All the indicators are there and you don't have to have sex with someone else to cheat.

[Galaxy]

Is Holly out of the series now?

[mauchow]

Hope not.

[GrantDawg]

Is Holly out of the series now?


At least for now. She was never signed to be a regular, but I would think she'll come back at some point.

[Swaggs]

I thought that was the best episode of the season.

This show seems to work best when its players are put into uncomfortable situations and this week's show had a number of them. The into scene with the Halloween costumes was outstanding between the Jokers, Stanley sleeping, and Andy's ridiculous kitten costume.

[Raiders Army]

It's pronounced Colonel and it's the highest rank in the military.

[Raiders Army]

Did anyone else remember the episode where Jim came in as Dwight before the intro and at the end of the episode Dwight came in as Jim?

Dwight pretty much did to Andy what Jim would've done to himself...albeit with his own flair.

[Swaggs]

It's pronounced Colonel and it's the highest rank in the military.

That was awesome.

Creed was only in the show for about 45 seconds and killed it this week between that line and the Joker stuff.

[Sublime 2]

"Dwight get out of my nook"

"That's what she said! That's what she said! That's what she said!"

Excellent!

[Raiders Army]

Any episode where Kelly doesn't open her mouth is golden.

You must've loved last night's episode. Alas, no Creed other than a coffee cup.

[GoldenEagle]

I thought last night was an average episode with not much going on. We continue to get teased with Jam/Pam drama. Michael saying he got engaged and telling Kelly she could be a bridesmaid was ridiculous. But that is Michael for you. I thought the coffee cups were the best part of the episode.

[Comey]

The Jim/Dwight/Michael phone segment made me cry from laughter.

[ISiddiqui]

"Who are you talking to?"
"Pam"
"Pam's not here"
"I know"

LOL!

The "that's what she said" and Pam's utter joy at it was excellent as well. And a pretty nice, awkward moment where Jim and Pam have to make some tough decisions on what to do.

[Raiders Army]

The Jim/Dwight/Michael phone segment made me cry from laughter.

Watched it again and it was probably the best part of the episode. I think when you get Dwight and Jim arguing and Michael playing the mediator it's pretty funny.

I wish in the episode or the deleted scenes the roles were reversed and Jim would call Dwight to sell paper.

[MrBug708]

My directv didnt record it :(

[SunDevil]

Hulu - The Office: Customer Survey - Watch the full episode now. (http://www.hulu.com/watch/43180/the-office-customer-survey#s-p1-so-i0)

[MrBug708]

I watched it on NBC :)

[MikeVic]

You can bet I'm watching tonight's episode!!

[GrantDawg]

You can bet I'm watching tonight's episode!!


Coming for visit, eh?

[MikeVic]

Coming for visit, eh?

I'm excited to see what they say about Winnipeg. :D

[Comey]

I greatly enjoyed the episode. Definitely moved a lot of compelling stories along.

"Are you drunk?"
"This is Andy Bernard."

"For some reason, I decided I couldn't do better than Kelly."
"Awww, that's so sweet!"

Fantastic.

[Logan]

Seeing Dwight taking notes in the background while Michael was saying "In Italy, it's customary to wash your hands after using the bathroom" was hilarious.

[MikeVic]

Well, I was expecting more Winnipegness. :( Otherwise, a good episode.

[ISiddiqui]

I loved it when Ryan was taken aback when Darrell was like "That's cool" and then seeing Darrell walk with a spring in his step as he was leaving, LOL!

And Michael's 'loyalty' speech was great!

"I thought that I dreamed that"

And Andy going on about wanting to see her naked (and wondering if someone was there... hmmm, Dwight?)

[samifan24]

And Andy going on about wanting to see her naked (and wondering if someone was there... hmmm, Dwight?)

You could actually hear Dwight ask "who is it, monkey?" in the background of the call if you listened closely.

[ISiddiqui]

So at least Michael and Dwight got some this episode ;).

[Dr. Sak]

Man i felt horrible for Michael in the end.

[GoldenEagle]

Good episode. My favorite quote was "I could have been a doctor or a professional athlete..."

Andy seems like a good guy. He is going to get screwed and it will be interesting to see his reaction with his anger management history.

The wife and I were speculating if Pam really failed the graphics class.

The whole Ryan thing makes little sense. His reaction definitely changed when he thought Daryl was not pissed. But I don't remember Daryl ever messing with Ryan.

I think this season is finally is starting to gain momentum. I think we will see the return of Toby soon.

[ISiddiqui]

The wife and I were speculating if Pam really failed the graphics class.

I don't know why she'd lie about it. I mean after she hung up, she was sitting on the bench and crying about it.

The whole Ryan thing makes little sense. His reaction definitely changed when he thought Daryl was not pissed. But I don't remember Daryl ever messing with Ryan.

It's because Ryan wanted Kelly because he couldn't have her. But when Darryl was so ok with it, he realized, oh crap... I forgot about her annoying parts and how quickly he was trying to get rid of her when they were dating in the first season.

[MikeVic]

I don't know why she'd lie about it. I mean after she hung up, she was sitting on the bench and crying about it.


I didn't think about it before, but maybe she told that dude from two weeks ago that she'd stay there. And that's why she told Jim she failed, to explore this new guy. So she cried because she was thinking her engagement had a chance to be off again. Then she realized she didn't want to do it, and came back to Jim.

Or, maybe she wanted to see Jim's reaction. See if he'd say he missed her and didn't want to be without her for another 12 weeks. She seemed to hint at that at the end of the episode.

[ISiddiqui]

I think you may be overthinking things ;).

[DanGarion]

I think you may be overthinking things ;).
x2

This isn't Lost guys.

[GrantDawg]

I loved it when Ryan was taken aback when Darrell was like "That's cool" and then seeing Darrell walk with a spring in his step as he was leaving, LOL!

And Michael's 'loyalty' speech was great!

"I thought that I dreamed that"

And Andy going on about wanting to see her naked (and wondering if someone was there... hmmm, Dwight?)


"Who is it, monkey" was what he heard. Yeah, that would be Dwight unless she has another lover who calls her monkey.

[CraigSca]

I didn't think about it before, but maybe she told that dude from two weeks ago that she'd stay there. And that's why she told Jim she failed, to explore this new guy. So she cried because she was thinking her engagement had a chance to be off again. Then she realized she didn't want to do it, and came back to Jim.

Or, maybe she wanted to see Jim's reaction. See if he'd say he missed her and didn't want to be without her for another 12 weeks. She seemed to hint at that at the end of the episode.

My impression is that she may have faked her failure (or not) but really just wanted to hear a bit of "I really miss you and want you home" from Jim. She perhaps was starting to feel a little bit homesick and probably subconsciously was testing him to see if he'd "step up". That whole performance at the end was a load - she liked school, but missed him and home, too much (although she offset it a little by saying, "you can't tell me what to do" - but that was only because of her previous relationship).

You know, typical girl games that they may or may not realize they're playing and one of the reasons we as men can't be anything but clueless.

[GrantDawg]

BTW ****Big Spoiler Alert**** (would put it in tags, but don't know how and don't care to learn)

This is all setting up for BJ Novak to leave the show. He took/is taking a 7-8 hiatus to work on a movie, but is more than likely not returning as an actor if/when he gets back.

[Comey]

Well, he's one of the show's writer, and one of the producers. I would expect him to be back, though possibly not on camera.

[GrantDawg]

My impression is that she may have faked her failure (or not) but really just wanted to hear a bit of "I really miss you and want you home" from Jim. She perhaps was starting to feel a little bit homesick and probably subconsciously was testing him to see if he'd "step up". That whole performance at the end was a load - she liked school, but missed him and home, too much (although she offset it a little by saying, "you can't tell me what to do" - but that was only because of her previous relationship).

You know, typical girl games that they may or may not realize they're playing and one of the reasons we as men can't be anything but clueless.


Doubtful. I think it is pretty straight forward. She didn't want to spend another three months away from Jim, to get a degree that would really require her to stay in NY (away from Jim) to fully utilize. Plus (just as a show problem solution), this helps explain why she would come back to the office, because if she finished school it would make no sense for her to return to her desk.

[GrantDawg]

Well, he's one of the show's writer, and one of the producers. I would expect him to be back, though possibly not on camera.


Possibly, but he is a bit a commodity now. If he does come back (and the rumors are he might not), this may be his last season. Which will suck, since he is one of the best writers, and Greg Daniels and Micheal Schur (Mose) is already leaving/stepping back their time on the Office for the Amy Poehler show. Of course, that might flop and they'll be back quickly, but who knows.

[MizzouRah]

This episode made me start liking Andy. I love when he went over to those guys and said, "Do you like apples"?

[Raiders Army]

BTW ****Big Spoiler Alert**** (would put it in tags, but don't know how and don't care to learn)

This is all setting up for BJ Novak to leave the show. He took/is taking a 7-8 hiatus to work on a movie, but is more than likely not returning as an actor if/when he gets back.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh!!!!!!!!!

I committed my wife and myself to a get-together on Tuesday night for the bigwigs of Lawton, OK and Ft. Sill. It will help my job immensely and being able to rub elbows, etc. will help me win some business for my company.

On Tuesday night B.J. Novak will be speaking about The Office and his career at Cameron University. There are free tickets and both the wife and I would like to attend.

[Raiders Army]

I really began liking Oscar as well as Andy this past episode. Before, Oscar seemed just as stuck up as Angela, especially when he was bitching about her babies poster, which he later had to wear in his ID photo.

[GrantDawg]

I really began liking Oscar as well as Andy this past episode. Before, Oscar seemed just as stuck up as Angela, especially when he was bitching about her babies poster, which he later had to wear in his ID photo.


Yeah. It was definitely a good episode for them both, and going to make the inevitable heart break from Angela so much harder to take. I think before that, most people didn't really care because people like Dwight in a sick way and want him to be happy with his Monkey. Now, I think the best solution would be they both kick Angela to the curb.

[albionmoonlight]

Any thought that Michael's comment at the end regarding how he can tell off his boss with no repercussions means that there might be repercussions?

[GrantDawg]

Any thought that Michael's comment at the end regarding how he can tell off his boss with no repercussions means that there might be repercussions?


Most likely. What will they be is the question.

[MizzouRah]

I bet Holly comes back.

[GrantDawg]

I bet Holly comes back.


Well, someone's coming back, but he isn't as good looking as Holly, and he definitely won't make Mike happy. :D

[MizzouRah]

Well, someone's coming back, but he isn't as good looking as Holly, and he definitely won't make Mike happy. :D

:lol:

[Galaxy]

Lot going on in this episode.

[MrBug708]

I go to Berlin; that's where I'll stash the Chandelier!

[GrantDawg]

Solid episode. I loved Ryan's departure.

Ryan:"So, I think we should have sex one last time, and then maybe if you have any spare money that would be great."

Kelly: "Ok."

Oh, and Dwight with the "Good thing I'm wearing my mustard shirt" nearly had me on the floor.

[Dr. Sak]

Was Pam really excited for the house or just pretending to be? At first I thought it was genuine but after she was picking about the stuff in the house it made me wonder.

[ISiddiqui]

I go to Berlin; that's where I'll stash the Chandelier!

That ending was so awesome!

As was paying $500 for capreise salad, LOL!

"The end justifies the mean", and Michael didn't know Toby had been back for a week, LOL!!!

[Logan]

I go to Berlin; that's where I'll stash the Chandelier!

That entire exchange was great, as was Michael's "NO!" at the sight of Toby.

[Dr. Sak]

Michael's "NO!" at the sight of Toby.

I watched that part over and over...laughing harder each time.

[Logan]

I watched that part over and over...laughing harder each time.

Just in case there's someone out there who reads this thread but doesn't watch the show...this was probably the best delivery of a short sentence that I've ever heard. Michael managed to convey shock, hate, repulsion, panic, and fear in both his voice and facial expression, all while saying a two letter word.

[Swaggs]

Great episode from top to bottom. After seeing Michael last night, it makes me feel like Steve Carrell had been phoning it in all season.

I think Pam loved the house, even though it appeared to us (and Jim) that she did not as she was going through it. She was more in shock/disbelief and had him worried.

Creed, again, kills it in under 30 seconds with his scene when the cops come in. :)

Also cracked me up when Dwight offered to be the bait and Michael suggested that Jim or Ryan would be much better choices.

[Raiders Army]

Meh. We got around to watching it and I felt as if it wasn't up to par with the other episodes this season, writing-wise.

Dwight phones the police and says his name is Andrew Bernard, but when the police come he says that he's Dwight Schrute and has some inside information.

What happened with the microwave? That just died off during the episode.

[RainMaker]

I've been disappointed by the season so far but actually liked this past episode.

[Raiders Army]

Solid episode. I loved Ryan's departure.

Ryan:"So, I think we should have sex one last time, and then maybe if you have any spare money that would be great."

Kelly: "Ok."

I caught it on a second viewing when Ryan said, "I'm going with some old high school buddies...well, some high school buddies."

[albionmoonlight]

I think that Pam liked the house, and the picking at the end was just a funny exchange between her and Jim.

I agree that Michael's "NO" was great. Just raw negative emotion.

And Creed just being Creed. That must be a fun part to play.

[Barkeep49]

Tonight's was the best in a long while. Very funny, while also offering advancement the relationships.

[Crapshoot]

It was awesome. I especially liked the ending. :D

[GrantDawg]

"I hate disappointing one person, and I really hate disappointing everyone. But then, I love Burlington Coat Factory." :)

[Dr. Sak]

I laughed the hardest when Mose hit Andy in the head with the ball.

[MizzouRah]

Dammit.. my DVR screwed up last night. Anywhere to watch the eposide from last night?

[Dr. Sak]

Dammit.. my DVR screwed up last night. Anywhere to watch the eposide from last night?

It should be on NBC.com by now.

[Dr. Sak]

Dola...here you go MizzouRah

The Office - Full Episodes - Season 5 - Video - NBC.com (http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/video/categories/season-5/698505/)

[ISiddiqui]

The chair vs. copier alliances was awesome and then Jim making Pam do copies from now on... how utterly amusingly passive aggressive.

[Logan]

This was one of the best episodes of the series.

"I swallowed your ideas, I'm going to digest them, and see what comes out the other end."

"Walk until you hear the beehive."
"How can it be more clear?"

"Why is that in the kitchen?!"

Oscar: "So next year..."
Michael: "I'll be 6!"

[MizzouRah]

Dola...here you go MizzouRah

The Office - Full Episodes - Season 5 - Video - NBC.com (http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/video/categories/season-5/698505/)

Thank you soooo much!!!

[MizzouRah]

Tonight's episode was great!

"That is vodka and I mixed it with orange juice. I call it an orange-vod-juice-ka."

Good stuff!!!

[MrBug708]

Jim got Dwight pretty good today. Then Dwight's look at the end as Andy was singing that song? And Toby's doll?

Ahahaha

[Logan]

I was dying during pretty much this entire episode, the most when Michael threw the pen at Toby's face.

[Dr. Sak]

I thought the opening scene was as good as the time Jim sent Dwight a fax from "Future Dwight"

[ISiddiqui]

Man, when Andy came out after Phylis revealed the secret, LOL!! That was hilarious: "Tough crowd"

[tucker342]

Great episode last night. It probably is my favorite one so far this season.

[Eaglesfan27]

Great episode, it had me laughing almost the entire episode.

[Raiders Army]

I was dying during pretty much this entire episode, the most when Michael threw the pen at Toby's face.

ditto

[MizzouRah]

Man, when Andy came out after Phylis revealed the secret, LOL!! That was hilarious: "Tough crowd"

Agreed.. you know, I've really changed my mind about Andy over the course of the show.. I'm starting to actually like the guy.

[GrantDawg]

Agreed.. you know, I've really changed my mind about Andy over the course of the show.. I'm starting to actually like the guy.


He has had the same character arc as Dwight. Totally annoying idiot to annoying idiot that is somehow endearing.

[MizzouRah]

He has had the same character arc as Dwight. Totally annoying idiot to annoying idiot that is somehow endearing.

QFT

[ISiddiqui]

And that is why the Office is such a great show. Imagine rooting for Dwight after you saw the 1st season? Imagine rooting for Andy after you saw his first few episodes?

[GrantDawg]

And that is why the Office is such a great show. Imagine rooting for Dwight after you saw the 1st season? Imagine rooting for Andy after you saw his first few episodes?


Or even Micheal. Micheal was not likable at all until the second season. I think this factor is what is superior to the original version. Their foils were never any way, shape, or form likable.

[ISiddiqui]

Michael always seemed to me to be a decent guy who was just a social idiot. Dwight, though, always struck me as an ass, stepping on people to get ahead, and when Andy came around, he seemed like a manipulator who looked down on others.

[ISiddiqui]

Btw:

Princess Unicorn (http://www.princessunicorndoll.com/)

LOL!

[GrantDawg]

Man there are page after page of comments on that site that are great. Here's a few of my favorites:

I have decided to make Princess Unicorn my Chief of Homeland Security because her horn can pierce the sky!!!- President Elect Obama

The people from Toys-For-Tots were very excited to get it.- Toby F.


Maybe this present will win my blushing bride back - root-do-do-do-do! Also maybe not, considering how conservative she is and how phallic the horn seems to be..- Andy B.

gots me a unicorn doll! Its the shizznit- 50 cent

I love Princess Unicorn more than bunnies! Her skin is sooooo soft! I love to stroke it. At night.- Ben (Skydog?)

princess unicorn saved my life. i was terminally ill with cancer but all the lead in her paint somehow reversed the effects of it. THANK YOU PRINCESS UNICORN I LOVE YOU.- Mario U.

Why does Princess Unicorn not come with a stylish turtle neck sweater?- Angela Something

Princess Unicorn not only is a wonderful Christmas gift for children but she is also utilitarian as she assists in drilling for oil. Not only does she pierce the sky but she can go through the depths of ice-covered shale.- Gov. Sarah P

She reminds me of my mother.- Creed Bratton

I wish that princess unicorn doll would pierce Michael Scott in his nosey ass....I need a drink.- Meredith

Big whoop. I saw a real girl with a horn on her forehead in Hotlanta.- Todd Packer

[ISiddiqui]

LOL!

We need to see Todd Packer come back again!

[Comey]

What an incredible, incredible episode. Some of the funniest stuff I've ever seen on the show.

[Danny]

Oh wow it started back up again, can't wait!

[stevew]

If he keeps it under 5mph it's silent. LOL

[Crapshoot]

I think my favorite line was Meredith though:
"I've had two guys fighting over me; who gets to hold the camcorder. "

[GrantDawg]

I think my favorite line was Meredith though:
"I've had two guys fighting over me; who gets to hold the camcorder. "


Second best "I get loser." :)

[DeToxRox]

Variety has revealed that Michael Scott will have a new enemy on The Office later this season: Idris Elba, marking the second time the series will make audiences shout, "Hey, they were on that Wire show!"

Thesp Idris Elba has been cast on "The Office" as a new rival to Dunder Mifflin regional manager Michael Scott (Steve Carell).

Elba, most recently seen in Guy Ritchie's "Rocknrolla," will appear in six episodes later this season. Details are slim on his plot line, other than he'll play a no-nonsense hire at Dunder Mifflin's corporate office who will throw Michael Scott into turmoil.

Alright, Idris, you've paid off your debt for starring in Obsessed. A half-season part in a funny television sitcom is just enough to make up for being in a Fatal Attraction rip-off that looks like a mid-'90s TV movie. But I'm warning you, next time you get the lead in a derivative, Beyonce-starring erotic thriller, you're going to need like two seasons of 30 Rock to pay that debt.

And in other Office-related news, here's the premise for the new Greg Daniels-produced Amy Poehler sitcom:

The new series, still untitled, will be filmed in the same mockmentary style as "The Office" but will be set in the world of local government. Cameras follow Leslie Knope (Poehler), described as a "mid-level bureaucrat in the Parks and Recreation Department of Pawnee, Indiana."

[Tasan]

Second best "I get loser." :)

Those were some classic, classic lines. I had my doubts about this season, but so far the magic is still there.

[Antmeister]

Variety has revealed that Michael Scott will have a new enemy on The Office later this season: Idris Elba, marking the second time the series will make audiences shout, "Hey, they were on that Wire show!"

Thesp Idris Elba has been cast on "The Office" as a new rival to Dunder Mifflin regional manager Michael Scott (Steve Carell).

Elba, most recently seen in Guy Ritchie's "Rocknrolla," will appear in six episodes later this season. Details are slim on his plot line, other than he'll play a no-nonsense hire at Dunder Mifflin's corporate office who will throw Michael Scott into turmoil.

Alright, Idris, you've paid off your debt for starring in Obsessed. A half-season part in a funny television sitcom is just enough to make up for being in a Fatal Attraction rip-off that looks like a mid-'90s TV movie. But I'm warning you, next time you get the lead in a derivative, Beyonce-starring erotic thriller, you're going to need like two seasons of 30 Rock to pay that debt.

And in other Office-related news, here's the premise for the new Greg Daniels-produced Amy Poehler sitcom:

The new series, still untitled, will be filmed in the same mockmentary style as "The Office" but will be set in the world of local government. Cameras follow Leslie Knope (Poehler), described as a "mid-level bureaucrat in the Parks and Recreation Department of Pawnee, Indiana."

Okay, that should be interesting seeing Stringer Bell (character on The Wire) playing opposite Steve Carrell.

[DeToxRox]

Okay, that should be interesting seeing Stringer Bell (character on The Wire) playing opposite Steve Carrell.

Avon could be out on parole soon.

[Galaxy]

I love how Michael tells Andy about Dwight and Angela in his car, then just drives off.

[MizzouRah]

Very funny episode...

[ISiddiqui]

"A little bit" LOL!

I also loved Jim reminded Michael that Andy had an anger problem. And Andy outsmarting Dwight with his Prius.

Though Dwight not realizing Angela was having sex with Andy was interesting as well, especially since a few eps ago, Andy was telling Oscar he hadn't even seen her naked.

And they BOTH decide the Hell with her... way to go!

[ISiddiqui]

Deleted Scenes be awesome as well:

The Office - The Duel - Clip Two - Video - NBC.com (http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/video/clips/the-duel-clip-two/944661/)

LOL, Stanley with the best line :D.

[Dr. Sak]

I just read Holly will be back for at least the season finale this year.

[Tasan]

Wow, I had no idea those outtakes existed. They cut some really funny stuff there.

[Danny]

Wow, I had no idea those outtakes existed. They cut some really funny stuff there.

Indeed, especially Stanley's line in there.

[bryce]

Variety has revealed that Michael Scott will have a new enemy on The Office later this season: Idris Elba, marking the second time the series will make audiences shout, "Hey, they were on that Wire show!"


Who was the first Wire-ex to be on the Office? I should know this, but I'm drawing a blank...

[Barkeep49]

Who was the first Wire-ex to be on the Office? I should know this, but I'm drawing a blank...
Amy Ryan (aka Holly and Beadie).

[terpkristin]

Very meh episode this week

/tk

[Logan]

I liked the "hot or not" storyline much more than Michael/Dwight.

"It's 'is she hot' not 'would you bang her.' Respect the game."

[stevew]

Yeah. Totally throw away this week. But still a lot better than most stuff on TV

[terpkristin]

I liked the "hot or not" storyline much more than Michael/Dwight.

Me too, but even that was on the upper edge of "meh" for me until the very end.

/tk

[Tasan]

Was anyone else waiting for Dwight to stick his head out and say "Who is that dog?" or something like that, right at the end?

[ISiddiqui]

I dunno, I kinda liked it. It was one of those episodes that showed the good, human side of Michael (kind of an anti-Michael goes crazy ep). He really was hurting about making the Prince family's business die.

And some great lines:

"My heart has gone down the wrong path many, many times. Jan... Ryan."

The hot or not was ok, especially when Kevin was the lynchpin and Jim almost had him with the "close your eyes" speech and then Pam saying "Are you really going to let the Kevins of the world decide this? We don't even give him full internet access!" with Kevin saying "Wait, what?"

[CraigSca]

After the last few episodes - I'm starting to get concerned for this show. :(

[samifan24]

I thought this episode was pretty weak, too. The "hot or not" bit felt like a funny passing line but not enough to work as an entire b-story. I was really surprised that they filmed a stand alone episode after so much buildup with Andy/Dwight and Jim/Pam.

[Pyser]

i loved the bittersweet chocolate talk at the end

[DeToxRox]

This is the best Office in years.

So many classic lines already, plus the best opening scene in Office history.

[Eaglesfan27]

This is the best episode of the year for me. Great opening with a bunch of funny lines that I can recall (I'm sure I'm forgetting a few.) I've had more laugh out loud moments with this episode than any other show on TV this year:

"Now, Dwight knows not to cut the face off a real person."

"Don't look up"

"The punishment fits the crime."

"You never expect that you're the killer, it's a great twist."

"I consider myself a good person, but I'm going to try to make him cry."

"I've got to make sure U Tube comes down and tapes this."

"No! Friends only! Friends only!"

"He's supporting about 20 Nigerian Princesses."

"If it were an Ipod, it would be a shuffle."

"Or an icicle has snapped off his roof and impaled his brain.. it was only a matter of time."

"What's a text?"

"I guess they all flew west for the winter."


The movie bit was weak except for Andy's reaction to the end of it, but the rest of the episode was very strong.

[Tasan]

Dang. Missed the opening scene. Stupid Super Bowl.

This one was excellent. I think I could watch the roast bit over and over again.

[ISiddiqui]

I dunno if I like the "fairy tale" endings to the 'problems' Jim and Pam have. Got an eye roll for me.

The rest was awesome though. And Stanley laughing his ass off at Michael's roast making Michael feel better was nice.

[Eaglesfan27]

I dunno if I like the "fairy tale" endings to the 'problems' Jim and Pam have. Got an eye roll for me.



I didn't mind that at all. I liked that better than creating a BS reason to break them up.

[ISiddiqui]

As for good quotes, I'd have to add:

"... and you are gayer than Oscar"

LOL!

[ISiddiqui]

I didn't mind that at all. I liked that better than creating a BS reason to break them up.

No one is really going to break up over saying something inadvertent. But its better than the, awww, its ok that my dad is leaving my mom because he did it because you love me so much.

Jim & Pam are getting dull. Though the season preview thing seemed to portend some very interesting developments.

[Danny]

I dunno if I like the "fairy tale" endings to the 'problems' Jim and Pam have. Got an eye roll for me.

The rest was awesome though. And Stanley laughing his ass off at Michael's roast making Michael feel better was nice.

Fantastic episode. And I like the "fairy tale" endings to Jim and Pam. The show has so many great characters and situations for them that I would prefer Jim and Pam's relationship to stay consistent and good. It's obvious they should be together.

[Galaxy]

I hate the fact that they just moved on from Dwight/Andy/Angela as if it never happened.

[Eaglesfan27]

No one is really going to break up over saying something inadvertent. But its better than the, awww, its ok that my dad is leaving my mom because he did it because you love me so much.



I'm sure she is still upset that her dad is leaving her mom, but she realizes they just aren't meant to be together any longer and it certainly isn't Jim's fault that her dad is realizing this. At the same time, she is happy because her earlier insecurity is completely obliterated by her hearing what Jim told her dad. I thought it was handled well.

[samifan24]

Great episode but the Jack Black movie thing was really, really stupid. Who thought that was a good idea? It felt really forced and didn't flow with the rest of the episode.

[ISiddiqui]

Meh, the "perfect relationship" makes me want to roll my eyes. Any Pam/Jim interaction if it doesn't involve a third party (like Andy) tends to bore me on this show these days.

[Danny]

Great episode but the Jack Black movie thing was really, really stupid. Who thought that was a good idea? It felt really forced and didn't flow with the rest of the episode.

Andy's reactions to Jim/Pam talking and to the movie were pretty funny, but the movie itself yes, didn't do much for me

[RainMaker]

Best episode of the season. The opening scene almost had me in tears.

I really wish they'd move away from the Jim/Pam stuff. Not saying break them up, just simply not have every episode involve some mushy storylines. Jim was a great character and it feels like they've neutered his personality since he got with her.

[ISiddiqui]

it feels like they've neutered his personality since he got with her.

I think that's it! Before Jim/Pam were this close, you'd always have an episode or two showing that Jim was, well, kind of a jerk. He was like the cool kid in school. He would pick on those who people thought needed it (ie, Dwight), but still... jerk.

His jerkiness is more muted now... and it seems to have taken away some depth from his character (usually more episodes add depth to characters).

[GrantDawg]

I didn't mind that at all. I liked that better than creating a BS reason to break them up.


Ditto. I started to get real worried we were about to have one of those tv break-ups. Please don't make this an on-again off-again thing.

[GrantDawg]

Great episode but the Jack Black movie thing was really, really stupid. Who thought that was a good idea? It felt really forced and didn't flow with the rest of the episode.


They wanted a way to have "stars" appear without making them an actual character. I saw the producer say in an interview that they are trying to keep away from having stars making regular guest spots. I'm guessing this was a compromise with NBC. (They did say in the same interview that they are tempted to see if Carol Burnett would play Micheal's mom).

[DeToxRox]

Jim plays a whipped bitch well.

[Kodos]

I laughed harder at Dwight harvesting the CPR dummy's organs than I have laughed at anything in a long, long time. Very funny episode.

[MrBug708]

Didn't I meet you in the parking lot?

[Eaglesfan27]

His jerkiness is more muted now...

Really? I thought he was a huge jerk when he ran that wire up to the telephone poll and showed no concern about Dwight's safety last week. Funny and Dwight deserves it, but I don't think his jerkiness is that muted.

[DeToxRox]

"Jim and Pam are movie geniuses ... They're catching things that're going over my head"

That was awesome.

[RainMaker]

For those who missed the intro.

<object width="512" height="296">

<embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/uOtXc2X3us3toqo2maQc8g" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="512" height="296"></object>

[RainMaker]

Really? I thought he was a huge jerk when he ran that wire up to the telephone poll and showed no concern about Dwight's safety last week. Funny and Dwight deserves it, but I don't think his jerkiness is that muted.
But that was a rare glimpse. Before they got together his entire character was built around being the office prankster/jerk. They'd have a quick scene with Pam or something every week, but it wasn't his main storyline.

[johnnyshaka]

Kevin kicking in the vending machine almost had beer coming out of my nose!

[Galaxy]

Angela's cat flying through the ceiling was funny.

[ISiddiqui]

But that was a rare glimpse. Before they got together his entire character was built around being the office prankster/jerk. They'd have a quick scene with Pam or something every week, but it wasn't his main storyline.

True. I had forgotten about the pole thing, though, to be honest. But in the 2nd season almost every episode had some prank Jim was playing on Dwight.

[GoldenEagle]

I thought Creed had the best line of the episode when he said that the dummy did not have a wallet because he had already checked.

It was a good episode but the whole movie was really stupid. I hope that is one time thing. Quite frankly, I was pretty grossed out about it.

[ISiddiqui]

I think that was the point (though Andy's reaction was hilarious).

I think NBC pushed for big stars (since it was on AFTER THE SUPER BOWL!!1!) and that's the best way they could isolate those stars to not ruin the "real" show.

[MizzouRah]

Michael throwing bread out for birds in the middle of winter and yelling "caw caw" was great.

Andy's song to Michael was great too.

[Raiders Army]

I liked how Dwight cut the face off the dummy.

[Daimyo]

I generally don't like the episodes that push the characters to absurd versions of themselves, but this one was still pretty good.

[albionmoonlight]

Really good episode.

And I think that the show works better with Jim and Pam happy than with the lazy Breakup/get back together/breakup/get back together/breakup formula that so many shows use "to keep things fresh."

Even when she was engaged to Roy, she and Jim were still a couple. They make a really good team, and I think that the show would lose something if they were apart.

[Kodos]

In the first season, I disliked Michael because he was so obnoxious, but at this point, he has shown that he truly cares about his employees (with the exception of the HR guy(Toby?)), even if it comes out in twisted ways. I actually felt bad for him during the roast.

[Passacaglia]

In the first season, I disliked Michael because he was so obnoxious, but at this point, he has shown that he truly cares about his employees (with the exception of the HR guy(Toby?)), even if it comes out in twisted ways. I actually felt bad for him during the roast.

I'm the opposite. When the show started, I liked him because he was obnoxious. Now, I dislike him because he's gone from obnoxious to downright evil -- except for sometimes he has a heart of gold.

[terpkristin]

Missed the last 10 minutes because the stupid bowl ran over. Wish that broadcasts could send out a flag for those with DVRs to delay until the damn show actually starts, especially in cases like this. Seems like it shouldn't be that hard to do since it's all digital anyway.

Will have to wait for the rerun unless I can find some streaming that works. I don't know if it's my PC or my network but most streaming vids that are any appreciable length get fubared in the first 5 minutes and don't recover. Hulu, ABC, etc, all seem to have that issue. Actually it might be my PC. It's on the wireless network, I have no problems using Netflix on my 360, which has the wired connection. Hmm. Either way, can't wait til the rerun!

/tk

[ISiddiqui]

In the first season, I disliked Michael because he was so obnoxious, but at this point, he has shown that he truly cares about his employees (with the exception of the HR guy(Toby?)), even if it comes out in twisted ways. I actually felt bad for him during the roast.

Agreed. I think Michael has become somewhat of a likable character. And when Angela was with Andy, I was feeling bad for Dwight and was amazed that the writers actually made me feel sorry for Dwight. It's a great show.

[Logan]

Missed the last 10 minutes because the stupid bowl ran over. Wish that broadcasts could send out a flag for those with DVRs to delay until the damn show actually starts, especially in cases like this. Seems like it shouldn't be that hard to do since it's all digital anyway.

You're forgetting that the broadcasters hate the fact that you're watching on a DVR.

[Kodos]

I always tack on an extra hour or hour and a half to sports events, because they always finish recording before the game is over.

[MizzouRah]

The Office is the only show that when I play it back on my DVR, it sometimes freezes and the sound skips a lot.

[GoldenEagle]

I really enjoyed the whole Pam/Roy/Jim angle though. To me, that is what got me hooked on the show. The show has def. gone in a different direction from the Season 1, 2, 3 format but I don't think they could have kept that angle going for forever.

[terpkristin]

I always tack on an extra hour or hour and a half to sports events, because they always finish recording before the game is over.

If I'd realized there was an episode of it following the stupid bowl, I would have, but didn't realize it was on until I was watching the game (it's been very hectic at work, I'm really far behind on tv watching), when I wasn't at my house and when I got home, I forgot to look if I could bump out the recording that had already started (it may have been too late, though).

Alas. Just one of those super-annoying things.

/tk

[Comey]

You're forgetting that the broadcasters hate the fact that you're watching on a DVR.

Really? I get the feeling like The Office wouldn't be around anymore if not for the DVR. Remember, it got horrible ratings for the first couple of seasons, but was the most recorded show on DVRs. So, it stayed, and has gained marketing steam from NBC.

I'm not sure your comment can fit with the above. But I am curious if they really dislike DVRs. Can you give information to support the statement?

[Comey]

dola--

Great episode. I loved Michael's roast of the employees at the end of the show.

I'm really wondering if we have seen the last of Dwight/Andy/Angela. The movie really struck a tone with Andy, it seems...and when Angela went up for the roast, they cut to Andy and Dwight. They hadn't done that since that whole thing came to its apex. So, now...I'm wondering if we really have seen it's final resolution.

As far as Jim goes, they've been doing more than a "quick scene with Pam" since the beginning. I think it's interesting that some view him as a jerk, and I can definitely see that logic. I think it's wonderful what the writers have done, which is make us feel for all the characters, so that even the ones who are the generally most beloved make us feel negative things when they do things to another character that is generally most disliked.

Just wonderful.

[Logan]

Really? I get the feeling like The Office wouldn't be around anymore if not for the DVR. Remember, it got horrible ratings for the first couple of seasons, but was the most recorded show on DVRs. So, it stayed, and has gained marketing steam from NBC.

I'm not sure your comment can fit with the above. But I am curious if they really dislike DVRs. Can you give information to support the statement?

Most people skip commercials when they watch on a DVR. Reducing the number of eyes that see an ad reduces the amount the broadcaster can charge. It's why you see more advertising within a show and also why networks are trying to figure out ways to put separate ads into DVRed shows compared to what's seen "live." I don't know if JiMGA pops into this thread, as he might have better info, but here's a couple articles that discuss it:

TV advertising's DVR challenge - CNET News (http://news.cnet.com/TV-advertisings-DVR-challenge/2100-1024_3-6075233.html)

NBC And Goodyear to Launch DVR-Proof Advertising During Olympics - Adrants (http://www.adrants.com/2006/02/nbc-and-goodyear-to-launch-dvrproof-adver.php)

Assessing DVRs' impact on TV ads :: BtoB Magazine (http://www.btobonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060403/FREE/604030715&SearchID=73271655013341)

I think we even had a "most DVRed shows" thread that talked more about the topic.

[Comey]

Well, I'm aware of the commercial issue. But I was unaware that the networks were against it, based on that knowledge. It does make sense. Thanks.

[Raiders Army]

Really? I get the feeling like The Office wouldn't be around anymore if not for the DVR. Remember, it got horrible ratings for the first couple of seasons, but was the most recorded show on DVRs. So, it stayed, and has gained marketing steam from NBC.

I think their episodes on iTunes helped as well. It was one of their highest sellers.

[Comey]

Agreed on iTunes. I know I was upset when they didn't sell Season 4.

[StLee]

To add, don't you think that those plugs on The Office are not REALLY ACCIDENTAL? No one on any other show in the history of television and film has ever mentioned a product without it being paid for by the advertising company.

Hmm... during the fire drill Kevin kicked in a vending machine magically filled to the brim with DORITO products. I wonder if that was a product placement or not. . . . Please. The Office gets its money and then some, DVR recordings or not.

[larrymcg421]

The DVR ratings were nice for the Office, but what really kept the show around was the demo's. In total audience numbers, The Office has very subpar ratings, but it is a top 20 show in the 18-49 age group, and even higher in more specific age groups. This is why it gets good ad dollars.

[DanGarion]

To add, don't you think that those plugs on The Office are not REALLY ACCIDENTAL? No one on any other show in the history of television and film has ever mentioned a product without it being paid for by the advertising company.

Hmm... during the fire drill Kevin kicked in a vending machine magically filled to the brim with DORITO products. I wonder if that was a product placement or not. . . . Please. The Office gets its money and then some, DVR recordings or not.
It's actually funny, because typically that machine is filled with food items from a local chip manufacture, but for this specific episode it was Doritos.

[JonInMiddleGA]

No one on any other show in the history of television and film has ever mentioned a product without it being paid for by the advertising company.

Not true, not even close.

Product placement fees are a relatively recent phenomenon and there were situations "back in the day" (think 60's and at least into the 70's as far as I know) where productions would nearly beg to get permission to use a real product on screen. Okay, "beg" might be a bit strong, but plead for permission isn't overstating it. The notion was that real products had as much or more of a potential cachet/added credibility for the show than the show had benefits for the product.

Times have definitely changed.

[Logan]

Seinfeld dropped product names all the time and never got paid a cent. I remember hearing the exact reason Jon stated as to why they did it in one of the behind the scenes things. A lot easier to build an episode around a Pez dispenser or Drake's Coffee Cake than some random made up name.

edit: I'm sure once Seinfeld became a huge success it was more of a quick yes by the product people. That same special said the only time they had to change a product was going from Chef Boyardee to "Beef-a-rino"...since the product was giving a horse such ridiculous gas that it knocked Kramer on his ass.

[Galaxy]

It's actually funny, because typically that machine is filled with food items from a local chip manufacture, but for this specific episode it was Doritos.

Hmmm...Kind of strange that one of the Super Bowl commericals (and the best rated) that was made via public proposal was very similar to what Kevin did.

I think all the television shows will go to product placement. Look at American Idol. The Coke-Cola cups in front of the judges, the fancy cars on Desperate Housewives.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/02/business/yourmoney/02place.html

[albionmoonlight]

I think that product placement is fine. At the point that it starts to take away from the quality of the show, I will stop watching. Until then, no reason that they can't make money.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I think all the television shows will go to product placement.

We're already there. There's very few shows (if any) that wouldn't consider it at this point.

[Passacaglia]

I saw a little bit of 90210 last night, and they had a scene with two cameras, one on each person talking. They flipped back and forth quickly between the two, and both of them had some kind of Dr. Pepper logo in the background -- one had a vending machine, and the other was behind a counter, and had some fountain drinks. It totally looked like they were just flashing Dr. Pepper logos at me -- pretty funny.

[DanGarion]

I think that product placement is fine. At the point that it starts to take away from the quality of the show, I will stop watching. Until then, no reason that they can't make money.
Try catching the Smallville episode that the kryptonite tainted gum caused someone to go superpower and tell me we haven't got to that point...

[Tasan]

Product placement is the reason we have TV shows. Read a little history on the early days of TV. Its just coming full circle again.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Product placement is the reason we have TV shows. Read a little history on the early days of TV. Its just coming full circle again.

+1

[DanGarion]

I saw a little bit of 90210 last night, and they had a scene with two cameras, one on each person talking. They flipped back and forth quickly between the two, and both of them had some kind of Dr. Pepper logo in the background -- one had a vending machine, and the other was behind a counter, and had some fountain drinks. It totally looked like they were just flashing Dr. Pepper logos at me -- pretty funny.
Wow I saw that same thing, we had just finished watching Scrubs on the DVR and it went to the CW and I saw that exact scene and I was thinking PRODUCT PLACEMENT!