The Office Season 4

[terpkristin]

From the Season 3 thread..
I guess a new thread should be started, but I just wanted to say that tonight's season premiere is brilliant so far. At least a half dozen great quotable lines already.

I concur. Awesome so far.

/tk

[NoMyths]

*thumbs up*

[Eaglesfan27]

*thumbs up*

Agreed. Very strong episode to kick off the season. So many great lines in this episode.

[timmynausea]

I liked it, but sometimes it feels like these hour long episodes are stretched a bit thin.

Agreed.

[Crapshoot]

Brilliant. Just brilliant. Best show on TV today. I was dying all through that episode.

[Neon_Chaos]

Awesome 1st episode.

[Karlifornia]

I'm wondering if the fans who have been all about the Jim and Pam romance will check out shortly, now that they've finally gotten what they wanted. I mean, there's so much more to watch this show for, but I get a sense that a lot of people watched it in they same way they watched Friends (I never watched Friends) for the whole "Ross/Rachel" thing....I was reading the televisionwithoutpity, and a lot of people were skeeved out by nipple chafing, but at the same time satiated by the jim and pam consummation..I don't know if I can see the show keeping those fans.

Hopefully it won't matter either way. Best sit-com on American TV since Seinfeld.

[Hammer]

Do you guys get the original English version over there with Ricky Gervais? Its superb. I'd love to see how your version compared.

[Pyser]

I'm wondering if the fans who have been all about the Jim and Pam romance will check out shortly, now that they've finally gotten what they wanted. I mean, there's so much more to watch this show for, but I get a sense that a lot of people watched it in they same way they watched Friends (I never watched Friends) for the whole "Ross/Rachel" thing....I was reading the televisionwithoutpity, and a lot of people were skeeved out by nipple chafing, but at the same time satiated by the jim and pam consummation..I don't know if I can see the show keeping those fans.

Hopefully it won't matter either way. Best sit-com on American TV since Seinfeld.

they wont stay together. the push/pull relationship in tv is a well worn path.

[Raiders Army]

Agreed.

Me too.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I spent most of the summer catching up with all the old episodes on DVD. I think this is probably the funniest show I've ever had the pleasure of watching.

That said, I didn't like the first episode of the season.

[Toddzilla]

Is this the "Official" thread? I'd hate to post in an outlaw discussion....

[Honolulu_Blue]

Do you guys get the original English version over there with Ricky Gervais? Its superb. I'd love to see how your version compared.

I think most fans of the U.S. version have watched the English version. I watched the English version first and actually didn't watch the U.S. version for the first two years or so, figuring it couldn't compare. I was wrong. Very, very wrong.

I can't take anything away from the original. I loved it. It's hilarious. The Christmas Special was one of the finest couple of hours of TV I've watched.

That said, I think the U.S. version has surpassed it. A lot of that has to do with the fact that it's been running 3 seasons, a ton of episodes, as opposed to just having 12 episodes and the special. It's given the show the ability to really develop a lot of the "minor" characters, which just add a ton of great moments. It's not quite as dark either, mainly because of the differences between Ricky Gervais and Steve Carrel.

[Swaggs]

I love the show, but thought the premiere was just okay. I did like the Hindu/Buddha discussion, though. And, I think it set things up for an Dwight-Angela-Andy love triangle, which should be fun during the season.

Was it just me, or did Andy not speak, at all, during the first half of the episode? I thought they were going to suspect that he had lockjaw or something, but then he started talking again.

[Butter]

You left your TV on... and your cat's dead.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I love the show, but thought the premiere was just okay. I did like the Hindu/Buddha discussion, though.

I thought that was the funniest exchange of the episode.

[MikeVic]

I enjoyed the episode.

[ISiddiqui]

As I posted in the other thread:

The first ten minutes had me rolling. The rest of the show was great as well... though the first half hour was amazingly good.

Michael Scott is the best character ever. And I knew Dwight did what he did, but I couldn't believe they'd (the show's writers) would make him do that!

[MikeVic]

It's funny, because I get into this argument with my friend all the time, but I love this show *in spite* of Michael and Dwight. Their antics are just too unbelievable and a little repetitive.

I keep watching for Toby, Ryan, Creed, Kevin, Phyllis, Stanley, and Daryl.

I still find Dwight funny, but some of the things Michael does just annoy the hell out of me/piss me off. I'm sure I complained about it in last season's thread.

[MikeVic]

Dola,

I liked how Kevin and Carlos (err I forget his name... the gay Mexican that left and then came back) had numerous exchanges about whether or not PB & J (love it!) are an item or not.

I also liked Creed living up to his weirdness. Knew more than half a dozen types of painkillers, entered in the 75+ running category so he could win, was in and lead numerous cults... LOL.

[ISiddiqui]

I still find Dwight funny, but some of the things Michael does just annoy the hell out of me/piss me off. I'm sure I complained about it in last season's thread.

But, Michael is redeemed by the fact that he does do genuinely nice things for people. Contrasted to, say, David Brent of the UK's Office. In the last episode, Michael did feel really bad, so he decided he'd run without any water (dehydrating himself badly) to show sympathy. But he is a total moron at times. He just isn't purposely mean to others (unlike... Dwight).

[ISiddiqui]

I liked how Kevin and Carlos

Oscar.

---

Oh, and I think this episode seemed a bit streached. Like they were trying to fill the hour. I remember we had a discussion whether The Office would be better as an hour long comedy or 30 minutes. I think episodes like this show the 30 min format is much better.

[MikeVic]

But, Michael is redeemed by the fact that he does do genuinely nice things for people. Contrasted to, say, David Brent of the UK's Office. In the last episode, Michael did feel really bad, so he decided he'd run without any water (dehydrating himself badly) to show sympathy. But he is a total moron at times. He just isn't purposely mean to others (unlike... Dwight).

Oh, the not-knowing meanness is funny. It's just some stuff he does sometimes is so out there that I hate it. I can't remember what it was from last season, but I know there were things he did that were just plain dumb. He redeems himself in my eyes by being a really good salesman. I still love how Jim and him got that new sale, and becoming Staples' supplier or something like that.

[MikeVic]

Oscar.

---

Oh, and I think this episode seemed a bit streached. Like they were trying to fill the hour. I remember we had a discussion whether The Office would be better as an hour long comedy or 30 minutes. I think episodes like this show the 30 min format is much better.

Ah, Oscar. I forget names. I was listening to some Desperate Housewives preview on the radio and couldn't get the name Carlos out of my head when trying to think of Oscar's name.

It seemed like just before the fun run is when the episode should have ended.

[ISiddiqui]

Oh, the not-knowing meanness is funny. It's just some stuff he does sometimes is so out there that I hate it. I can't remember what it was from last season, but I know there were things he did that were just plain dumb. He redeems himself in my eyes by being a really good salesman. I still love how Jim and him got that new sale, and becoming Staples' supplier or something like that.

I noticed sometime in the 2nd season that how Michael comes across depends on who wrote that episode. I forget which was which, but I remember when one of the writers (I think it's the guy that plays Ryan) does an episode Michael comes across as a complete idiot, but when another one of the writers (I think it's the woman that plays Kelly) does an episode, Michael is more realistic and considerate.

[larrymcg421]

I disagree about the episode feeling stretched. I've always loved the hour long episodes. The only two they've done in the past (Benihana Christmas, The Job) are two of my favorites of the series. This wasn't quite up to those standards, but it wasn't because it was an hour long.

If anything, I think the show needs to be an hour long. They have so many characters that some don't really get to see the light of day. Meredith was barely visible for much of last season. If you check out the deleted scenes on the DVD, there is so much great material that they have to cut in every single episode.

[ISiddiqui]

I actually think this should would have been amazing (well, even more amazing) if it was clipped to a half hour. The second half hour was far less funny than the first half hour, IMO.

[larrymcg421]

I'm wondering if the fans who have been all about the Jim and Pam romance will check out shortly, now that they've finally gotten what they wanted. I mean, there's so much more to watch this show for, but I get a sense that a lot of people watched it in they same way they watched Friends (I never watched Friends) for the whole "Ross/Rachel" thing....I was reading the televisionwithoutpity, and a lot of people were skeeved out by nipple chafing, but at the same time satiated by the jim and pam consummation..I don't know if I can see the show keeping those fans.

Hopefully it won't matter either way. Best sit-com on American TV since Seinfeld.

I think it's actually quite the opposite. The Jim/Pam fans couldn't be happier now. They weren't watching just to see them "get together". They wanted to see them be together. They were extremely frustrated last season during all the angst. Now they've got what they want they certainly aren't going to check out. Also, Friends seems to be a bad example since it lasted 10 years and Ross/Rachel got together in season 2.

One thing that bugged me about the UK version, was, yes Tim and Dawn got together, but we never got to see any of their relationship. I'm glad they finally put them together. It was starting to get unrealistic for them to stay apart. We've waited long enough.

[ISiddiqui]

I think Pam or Jim has to do something bad that makes their relationship push apart a bit and leave some of that angst, because in order to make up for it, they may decide to push Michael even further to crazy. Then again, they may focus more on the Dwight-Angela dynamic.

[Joe]

was this really an hour episode? it seemed like two half hour episodes put together to me.

[Toddzilla]

was this really an hour episode? it seemed like two half hour episodes put together to me.It was.

[Draft Dodger]

It's funny, because I get into this argument with my friend all the time, but I love this show *in spite* of Michael and Dwight. Their antics are just too unbelievable and a little repetitive.

I keep watching for Toby, Ryan, Creed, Kevin, Phyllis, Stanley, and Daryl.

not sure that I'd go that far, but I too find Michael to be a little much at times and would prefer less of him and more of the supporting cast. I felt the same way about the UK Office. Both David Brent and Michael Scott are funny characters, but the schtick gets a little tiresome at times. Seriously, is there no other plot device available other than uncomfortable impromptu meetings in the conference room?

[larrymcg421]

was this really an hour episode? it seemed like two half hour episodes put together to me.

They wrote it as two half hour episodes, but they knew they would be shown together.

[CamEdwards]

not sure that I'd go that far, but I too find Michael to be a little much at times and would prefer less of him and more of the supporting cast. I felt the same way about the UK Office. Both David Brent and Michael Scott are funny characters, but the schtick gets a little tiresome at times. Seriously, is there no other plot device available other than uncomfortable impromptu meetings in the conference room?


I'm with you. The Michael Scott character that showed flashes of competence in the earlier seasons has all but vanished. Now he's not just a bad boss, he's a complete wreck of a human being. I find myself cringing at him rather than laughing, and his character actually makes the show much less believable than it would be otherwise.

The subtle humor of The Office is what I really like, but you never really get that with the Michael Scott character.

[Crapshoot]

Eh - I enjoy it. I think despite everything else, Michael is a good guy, and it shows (from the art show - which have been one of the most touching moments of the entire series, to the fact that he organized the run, because in his own idiotic way, he was trying to do something good). Yeah, it gets a little outrageous at times, but its not at David Brent levels yet/

[ISiddiqui]

Exactly... the "Run" was him trying to do good... in his own way. It was moronic, yes... but you could tell he did feel bad for what he did (otherwise he would have drunk some water on the way).

[Mo.Raider]

I think Michael Scott being such a moron fits perfectly. Most of us have been in a situation where you look at the big boss and think "how in the heck did this guy get to be the numero uno".

[timmynausea]

I'm with you. The Michael Scott character that showed flashes of competence in the earlier seasons has all but vanished. Now he's not just a bad boss, he's a complete wreck of a human being. I find myself cringing at him rather than laughing, and his character actually makes the show much less believable than it would be otherwise.

The subtle humor of The Office is what I really like, but you never really get that with the Michael Scott character.

Agreed. I have actually been worried at times that they would try to push some of the Michael Scott stuff too far and ruin the show for me. Maintaining the believability is the key to the show, and he crosses the line more than any other character. Dwight does from time to time, too.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm with you. The Michael Scott character that showed flashes of competence in the earlier seasons has all but vanished. Now he's not just a bad boss, he's a complete wreck of a human being. I find myself cringing at him rather than laughing, and his character actually makes the show much less believable than it would be otherwise.

The subtle humor of The Office is what I really like, but you never really get that with the Michael Scott character.

Agreed. Michael has some great lines and moments of genius, but even those are subtler moments. Many of his long, diatribes aren't nearly as funny.

It gets even worse whenever he actually leaves the "Office".

[saldana]

i think the problem's with michael's character become more pronounced when the whole episode is about him and only him doing something, instead of just commenting on something else going on in the office or involving other people...i agree some of the episodes have been off the hook stupidity (the wedding episode was awful), because no one could actually ever be that stupid.

[Daimyo]

I didn't mind the hour episode because it seemed obvious it was originally intended as two self contained 30 minute episodes that just got shown together.

The only time I really felt the Michael character crossed the line into unbelievability was the wedding episode... and that was easily the worst of the series.

[ISiddiqui]

I think Michael's over the top-ness was at its peak (nadir?) in Diversity Day, which was the 2nd episode. I don't think anything, not even the wedding episode, was as bad as that.

[Andiamo]

they wont stay together. the push/pull relationship in tv is a well worn path.

Yea I wonder if it will be Jim or Pam that Fs it up :confused:

[Butter]

Computers will murder you by driving you into lakes.

[Dr. Sak]

How is lying to you that I am pregnant a bad thing?

[ISiddiqui]

"We can never get back together. EVER"
"Why not?!"

I almost spit my coke at that line. I was literally rolling!

[Dr. Sak]

“It’s a feral barn cat. I captured him last night. His name is Garbage.”

“Garbage can be very helpful. He killed an entire family of raccoons.”

"He smells like what I think Prierce Brosnan probably smells like."

[Neon_Chaos]

What have we learned? You can't teach an old dog new tricks, because it's illegal. And you will go to jail.

[SunDevil]

Where are the turtles. Give me the turtles.

[Swaggs]

My favorite part was Creed's dye job and the camera work on his entrance.

I bet some folks missed this, but I loved the part in the meeting, where Michael said that the printer was out of ink, and then they panned to Creed's dye job. :)

[larrymcg421]

Wow, not only is Ryan a total prick, he's probably even worse than Michael at being a boss. I mean, it's really not a good idea to try to fire your ex-girlfriend in front of the documentary crew that captured every minute of your relationship, and then to ask out the receptionist right after that. Dude is gonna cause more lawsuit problems than Michael Scott ever dreamed of.

This was a really good episode. My favorite part was when Phyllis came into the break room and told Jim and Pam, "I couldn't see your hands."

[timmynausea]

I thought the first half or 2/3 of the episode was really really good. Once they drove the car into the lake, they lost me a little bit.

[Neon_Chaos]

I like Ryan's new role. :)

[Karlifornia]

I thought the first half or 2/3 of the episode was really really good. Once they drove the car into the lake, they lost me a little bit.

Agreed....They need to be careful about not overdoing Micheal Scott....I know that Hollywood thinks Americans hate subtlety, so I may just have to get used to it.

[Joe]

can they please stop turning Michael into Homer Simpson

[Barkeep49]

I was disappointed since this is the first time we've seen Michael fail in a sales situation. His sales ability is what makes him a rounded character.

[Andiamo]

Hey Pam. By the way, it's great that you're dating. But when a new client calls, you just have to randomly assign them to a salesperson. You can't base who gets new clients on who you're sleeping with that week. Okay?

[samifan24]

I thought the first half or 2/3 of the episode was really really good. Once they drove the car into the lake, they lost me a little bit.

Agreed, although for me it wasn't the car in the lake but Michael and Dwight's over-the-top behavior on the trip back to the lawyer's office that did it for me.

[CamEdwards]

Bah! I haven't seen this week's episode yet, but from what I'm reading they're still writing the Michael Scott character way to broadly for my taste.

[korme]

Great episode after being disappointed by the season opener.

I loved when Jim asked Pam if the magic was gone, she said yes. And it was fun while it lasted, remarked Jim as Pam shrugged before mugging for the camera... good stuff.

"Hey brah, you think they are gonna get some red bulls in here soon? Everyone's gotta ride the bull. Later skater" Creed is hilarious.

[RPI-Fan]

"Hey brah, you think they are gonna get some red bulls in here soon? Everyone's gotta ride the bull. Later skater" Creed is hilarious.

Line of the episode...

[Eaglesfan27]

My favorite part was Creed's dye job and the camera work on his entrance.

I bet some folks missed this, but I loved the part in the meeting, where Michael said that the printer was out of ink, and then they panned to Creed's dye job. :)

I didn't miss that - it was hilarious. I just watched it, and it was another great episode. Plenty of quotable lines. Anyone else register at Dundermifflininfinity's website?

[tripps04]

Has anyone gone to the dundermifflininfinity site and set up as an employee. I think a FOFC office is a must.

Sorry Eaglesfan27, how I missed you posting that is beyond me. Sorry once again

[Barkeep49]

I have setup as an employee.

[tripps04]

I setup for the one in MI-Kalamazoo. But will change for one with alot of Fofcer's

[Eaglesfan27]

I tried to join the one in Lake Charles, LA, but I'll switch to wherever there are the most FOFC'ers.

[Eaglesfan27]

Sorry Eaglesfan27, how I missed you posting that is beyond me. Sorry once again

No big deal. I was just thinking about all of the funny lines this week, and I think the Red Bull line is my favorite as well.

[saldana]

"she is the office matress"

[MikeVic]

The episode was ok, but the whole hostage thing was pretty dumb. I think an hour is still too long for the episodes.

And I really really hate how the Michael Scott character is turning out. He can't do anything right anymore, and every episode sinks him further. He eventually realized that he was kidnapping, but it took way too long. I did like the DVD screen saver at the beginning. :) I used to do that with the bouncy Windows 3.1 screen saver.

[ISiddiqui]

I actually thought this was the best of the season so far. But I agree, if it was 30 minutes, it'd KICK ass.

Michael Scott was much better this episode. That's somewhat according to character and he realized what he did before, say, the cops showed up.

Dwight beating the computer was hilarious (using the secret Staples stash) and the writers did a great job of making Dwight a sympathetic character. And Pam was real sweet, showing some compassion for Dwight (after all, Jim really pushed her into pulling the prank on Dwight... not that he helped matters).

Andy is becoming a fun character as well. Asking if Jim was mocking (because he REALLY needed to know), doing the speaker phone a capella for Angela, hehe... and the whole thing about knowing Angela is repulsed by him, but he wants to try anyway.

[heybrad]

Andy and his two speakerphoned buddies singing Take A Chance On Me was one of the funniest things I've seen on TV in a while.

[Crapshoot]

It was great - Pam's compassion was a wonderful thing - one of the reasons she's such a likable character. And in terms of great moments, Ryan's camera hogging at the end - awesome. The whole "box" thing was funny as well.

[Toddzilla]

The first episode last night was much funnier than the second - even though they are "one hour episodes", they still play to me like 2 30-minute shows. Steve Carrell was on fire all night long and the writing in these episodes were as good as any in the series. When they can sneak in quick things like Stanley dancing to the web site jingle, Michael calling Angela "booster seat", or the way the warehouse guy hits on Kelly, you know they're on a roll.

This is shaping up to be the best season ever, and I'd never have guessed that it would be given they hooked up Jim and Pam - who BTW have been very very good in an understated way this year.

[Barkeep49]

I thought the first half hour was one of the best half hours of the show. It had me laughing nearly constantly. However, it just couldn't sustain it in the second half, though Andy's singing was real good as was the ending with Ryan. But the first half hour was the best of the season so far.

[saldana]

Pam - its too tight

Phyllis - definitely too tight

Oscar - is this what i was called in here for?


almost wet myself

[Honolulu_Blue]

Oscar - is this what i was called in here for?

almost wet myself

That was my favorite line of the night as well.

I agree with the Squiddi-Man, this was the best episode of the year thus far.

[larrymcg421]

The Office continues to do great for NBC. Despite much stronger competition, it has actually improved year to year in 18-49 (4.7 vs. 4.1).

[Dr. Sak]

Schrute Farms (http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g52842-d730099-Reviews-Schrute_Farms-Honesdale_Pennsylvania.html)

[larrymcg421]

Last week's episode was one of my favorites in a long time. It was very different, thankfully jettisoning Michael's cartoonish behavior for something more low key. The Jim-Dwight scene is terrific. John Krasinski is very underrated as an actor.

[MikeVic]

The episode made me sad for some reason. Had good moments, but there seemed to be a lot of downers.

[larrymcg421]

The episode made me sad for some reason. Had good moments, but there seemed to be a lot of downers.

It was definitely a sad episode.

[Crapshoot]

Last week's episode was one of my favorites in a long time. It was very different, thankfully jettisoning Michael's cartoonish behavior for something more low key. The Jim-Dwight scene is terrific. John Krasinski is very underrated as an actor.

Really enjoyed it - and showing Michael as a good guy again was important to me. I also enjoyed Jim's discussion of what he imagined his first night with Pam would be like - less manure.

[Swaggs]

I thought this past week's episode was the best of the season.

[Swaggs]

I've noticed that the writer/director really makes a difference in how the characters are portrayed. The guy that plays Toby (I think his name is Paul Lieberstein?) wrote and directed this one and he seems to make the characters more realistic, where some of the writers make Michael and Dwight too cartoonish.

[Neon_Chaos]

I actually know the answer, but I'm not telling. Because you guys are jerks of not watching my band last night.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I thought it was nice to finally see Jan act like a real person at the end there.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Daryl rules. I love his delivery.

His short role in "Knocked Up" was perhaps the funniest bit in the movie.

[larrymcg421]

I actually know the answer, but I'm not telling. Because you guys are jerks of not watching my band last night.

That was funny. It was his little Beach Games moment.

[BishopMVP]

That entire argument was priceless. Kelly - "Ryan used me like an object."

And Creed continues to be my idol.

[Neon_Chaos]

So, is it whomever or whoever?

[Dr. Sak]

No one is going to mention Mose running next to the car, or Pam seeing him in the outhouse. Mose is freakin hilarious!

[larrymcg421]

No one is going to mention Mose running next to the car, or Pam seeing him in the outhouse. Mose is freakin hilarious!

Mose is hilarious and is played by one of the writers - Mike Schur. Actually, my favorite moment was the creepy scene where he was staring at Pam during the bedtime story.

[Doug5984]

Just re-watched the last episode, it was another great one. The office is one of those shows I can watch and re watch the same episodes over and over and still enjoy them.

[ISiddiqui]

You have to pick... me or your daughter
My daughter

LOL... I love how Kelly felt that Darryl would pick her over his daughter!

Though, I agree, a great episode... and a bit of a reset. After Michael being over the top, a less slapstick funny, back to normal one.

[Passacaglia]

I.....declare....BANKRUPTCY!!!!

[Andiamo]

Okay. I know what's going on. Talking about Jim and Pam. If they're having sex. What it looks like, I know.

[Andiamo]

So, is it whomever or whoever?

:cool: Here I go being a nerd . . .

What I really want, honestly, Michael is for you to know it so that you can communicate it to the people here, to your clients, whomever.

Ryan was right. In that sentence, you could replace "whomever" with "them." If you could replace it with "they," you could use whoever. A really oversimplified way to remember is that "who" can be replaced with "he" or "she" while "whom" can be switched with "him" or "her."

[Crapshoot]

No one? That was frigging awesome, and I nearly spit out my coke when I heard Angela's line "I don't like been titillated". And Michael's commercial, with Stanley in particular - really enjoyable.

[Butter]

Ryan's being a little bitch again.... hey, what's up my brother!?!?

[ISiddiqui]

"OH D!"! "OH D!!!"

That was freaking hilarious as Andy thought Angela was going off on anDy and Dwight realized she was thinking of him.

And Jim trying to explain away his Second Life character was funny as Hell.

And Michael actually made a great commerical.

[Butter]

Break me off a piece of that hmm hmm hmm.... what is that?

Foot-ball cream.
Fan-cy feast.

[terpkristin]

Have I mentioned that I hate that I can no longer get The Office on iTMS? I've been insanely busy lately, working long hours and getting home late, I've missed the last 2 episodes. :(

/tk

[Crapshoot]

Have I mentioned that I hate that I can no longer get The Office on iTMS? I've been insanely busy lately, working long hours and getting home late, I've missed the last 2 episodes. :(

/tk


DVR/Tivo. I've never used Itunes, and don't intend to.

[terpkristin]

DVR/Tivo. I've never used Itunes, and don't intend to.

Until I move out of this apartment, neither is an option unless I build one myself (a la making a DIY Tivo from a Windoze Media PC). I can't get landline cable in here and would have to buy a "special" package for DirecTV (per some stupid agreement my apartment complex has with them) but I couldn't mount the dish in a good place, as my apartment really faces the wrong way. What I have is basically like hotel cable. The complex gets DTV and pushes it out to the apartments for 45/month. I get a lot of channels I want (including Fox Soccer and 4 HBO's), but I don't get the nifty toys. And my DVD recorder has died (2nd one that's died on me) and I don't really plan on getting a VCR (tapes?!), so my options are somewhat limited.

I prefer iTunes, as it means I can take it the stuff on my iPod and play it to my TV via one of my dock sets, instead of being forced to watch it on my computer screen. I just prefer not to download things via BT, and don't mind paying for the stuff, just that NBC is doing their own thing now which I'm not interested in even remotely. Alas. I'll have to wait for it to get rerun or see if someone else grabbed it off a torrent.

/tk

[Passacaglia]

VCR?

[ISiddiqui]

If you missed the episode, go here:

http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/video/episodes.shtml

[saldana]

first thing i did this morning was call one of my friends that watches this show and asked him to clear my phone lines...you could hear the two of us laughing all the way around the office.

[Crapshoot]

first thing i did this morning was call one of my friends that watches this show and asked him to clear my phone lines...you could hear the two of us laughing all the way around the office.

I forgot that. That, Jim with the 2nd life bit, and Jim with the whole "arm around Pam" when the guy asks about bikes - all made me laugh. Its good to see him get beyond the looks, which are pretty good by themselves.

[Eaglesfan27]

No one? That was frigging awesome, and I nearly spit out my coke when I heard Angela's line "I don't like been titillated". And Michael's commercial, with Stanley in particular - really enjoyable.

I just watched this and there were so many great lines, but no one and Angela's lines were my favorites.

[RainMaker]

It's fairly subtle, but the jokes Michael makes about Oscar are hilarious.

"Oscar will do costumes.....obviously"

[Raiders Army]

Coup.

[Neon_Chaos]

The commerical actually wasn't half bad. It was cute and edearing. :)




I know something about acting in commercials. When I was a kid, people called me Mr. Kool Aide.

*face*

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

[Eaglesfan27]

"Mo' money, mo' problems"

"I cut my penis on the lid"

"The eyes are the groin of the head"

"Come on Jim, just climb on top of her and think of Stanley"


LMAO.

[Raiders Army]

"Mo' money, mo' problems"

"I cut my penis on the lid"

"The eyes are the groin of the head"

"Come on Jim, just climb on top of her and think of Stanley"


LMAO.

Bottom three were great lines. Mo' money, mo' problems...meh. Michael's said that before.

[ISiddiqui]

"Aside from having sex with a man, the Finer Things Club is the gayest thing I've ever done"

LOL!

[Raiders Army]

"Aside from having sex with a man, the Finer Things Club is the gayest thing I've ever done"

LOL!

That too!

[Andiamo]

Those are ALL awesome, and I must add:

And if we have to defend ourselves, I will stab the security guard in the eye, with the jumbo chalk.
No! No you won't do that. Nope.
Then I'll grind up the jumbo chalk and blow it in his eyes.

Wanted, middle-aged black man with sass. Big butt, bigger heart... I can't, do this.

GREAT EPISODE :D

[samifan24]

I thought tonight's ep was the best thus far this season.

[Jas_lov]

I thought tonight's ep was the best thus far this season.

Are you serious? I thought it was the weakest! Some good parts, but the episode just seemed thrown together to build up to that final scene with Michael and Jim which was the saving grace of the episode. Michael out in the woods and the birthday thing were lame. Very mediocre!

[ISiddiqui]

That episode was AWESOME! OMG, when Phyllis called Jim, "Michael" I DIED laughing. That was just so great.

Jim basically turning into Michael, even taking his office, was incredibly amusing.

[Raiders Army]

Great episode, but not one of the best. The part where Michael surprised people on their birthday was pretty funny.

[samifan24]

Are you serious? I thought it was the weakest!

To each his own. I found myself laughing more during tonight's episode than the last couple of episodes combined. In fact, I was afraid that I was starting to lose interest in the show but tonight's episode brought it back for me.

[Raiders Army]

Tell her it's for Creed. She'll know what that means.

[saldana]

jim doing the "thats what she said" line was classic, as was michael suprising everyone on their birthday.

the thing in the woods was ok...it was subtley funny...the cutting off of the pant legs while he was still wearing them...the fact that the time index on the tape showed 58 minutes remaining when he started, and then 3 remaining when he was done cutting the pants apart...then a new tape was in the next time when he had taped his suit back together...basically just showing that he hadnt moved an inch the entire time he was out there.

[ISiddiqui]

I loved the whole duct taping the pant legs back when he got cold. And Dwight tackling Michael when he tried to eat the mushrooms. Though the best part in the woods was Dwight looking at Michael through the scope of his rifle and then realizing the safety wasn't on :D.

[Butter]

The episode had its moments, but it wasn't quite up to the quality of the last few overall.

[Miller Time]

Not sure if this has been posted, but found it on Jenna Fischer's blog. Looks like it'll be awhile until we see any new episodes. :(

hxxp://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=27753303&blogID=326434607



Understanding the Strike

By now you may have heard that The Office has shut down production. This is true. They cleaned out my trailer and just delivered me 3 boxes of my stuff. It is pretty surreal. We cannot produce new episodes of The Office until the Writer's Guild strike is over.



You might be confused about the issues of the strike and I'm hoping that this blog can make it a bit clearer. (I should probably tell you that I support my head writer/producer Greg Daniels and the writing staff of The Office in their decision to strike.)



The big issue in this negotiation involves the internet. If you go to NBC.com right now, you can watch an episode The Office for free. The network runs advertisements while you're watching it, which gives them an extra source of revenue. The actors, writers, producers and director, the people who created the content you are watching, are not compensated in any way for this.



The Writer's Guild has taken the position that the writers should receive residuals if the show re-airs on the internet just like they receive residuals if it re-airs on television since in both cases the studios are making money. The issue is a huge deal, because the internet is clearly where the future of entertainment lies.



Right now, a number of successful shows (like Lost for one) have stopped showing repeat episodes on TV at all, and have replaced them with ad-supported streaming video on their websites. If you're a Lost writer, or actor, or director, or a teamster that's no residuals at all for that show, and that's a big pay cut. We all count on the extra income that residuals provide as it can help us through a slump in our career when we aren't working as regularly. It is our safety net. In 10 years I may need those residual checks to cover my electric bill. You never know. Hollywood is a fickle town. If in 10 years, everything is rerun on the internet, the current union contracts say the studios don't have to pay us a dime. And, I'll be sitting in the dark.



I hope that helped to explain things a little. For more…

[Miller Time]

Meant to include this last part.

Oh...there are only 2 unaired original episodes of The Office left. And, I'm sad to say the one we were getting ready to shoot was going to be the funniest of the year. I'm sure of it. They've been pitching this particular story idea for over 2 years…it involves Pam and Jim being in Michael's home but that's all I'll say. I hope we get to shoot it soon. Let's all stay strong and hope that the strike can end soon.

[Barkeep49]

I thought last night's episode while having some laugh out loud moments ("Ryan is as hot as Jan in a different way"), had far more painfully funny moments ("You expect to get screwed by your company but not your girlfriend"). Steve Carell did just an amazing job this episode. I was totally relieved to see Michael not be a complete idiot (realizing that Jan had brought his diary before she knew about the picture). And I felt bad for Michael as he got shafted from both sides. The show came awfully close to forcing itself to answer how Michael is still in his position, an area they're best not exploring.

One point of discussion: I've heard it suggested that when Michael tells David he's a "nice guy too" at the end that instead of being the sincere complement I took it to be that it was sutble dig. It's an interesting interpretation but I don't think it's the right one.

[ISiddiqui]

"You expect to get screwed by your company but not your girlfriend"

That was like the greatest line in the entire series. This show was one of the best ones, IMO, of the series. Poor Michael, but just when you want to feel really sad for him, he goes and pushes Toby's lunch off the table (which was hilarious is a painfully funny sort of way).

Well, he knows that Jan really doesn't think highly of him. And he showed that he's loyal to his job (if you noticed, the CFO, Wallace, tried as hard as he could to not answer that they really weren't serious about hiring Michael... and it seems he really does like Michael as a person and that may explain Michael's continuing to be Scranton's regional manager... that with the sales).

[Swaggs]

I thought that was an excellent episode. Hearing the transcript being read back, when he had been trying to avoid questions, was killing me.

"You expect to get screwed by your company but not your girlfriend"

That was like the greatest line in the entire series.

My favorite quote was in season two, when word was spreading that Jim had a crush on Pam and people were gossiping about it, someone (I think Kevin) told Creed, and Creed acted real interested about it and then asked, "Which one is Pam, again?" :)

[Barkeep49]

I think Michael's sales ability, and being a nice person in Wallace's eyes, is why Michael has his job. For instance during the interview for Pam's job, which is more interesting now given what we know, Michael remarked how impressed he was that Michael didn't lose a single account during the merger. Still, Jan's recommendation was dead on and you'd have to think that Ryan would write a similar evaluation. So just how long could Michael hang on for?

[larrymcg421]

I thought last night's episode while having some laugh out loud moments ("Ryan is as hot as Jan in a different way"), had far more painfully funny moments ("You expect to get screwed by your company but not your girlfriend"). Steve Carell did just an amazing job this episode. I was totally relieved to see Michael not be a complete idiot (realizing that Jan had brought his diary before she knew about the picture). And I felt bad for Michael as he got shafted from both sides. The show came awfully close to forcing itself to answer how Michael is still in his position, an area they're best not exploring.

One point of discussion: I've heard it suggested that when Michael tells David he's a "nice guy too" at the end that instead of being the sincere complement I took it to be that it was sutble dig. It's an interesting interpretation but I don't think it's the right one.

I don't think that's the right interpretation at all. To Michael, being called a "nice guy" meant alot more to him. He didn't care that he wasn't the first choice for the job, or even one of the top 10. It was important to him to be considered a nice guy. That one comment from the CFO's deposition is what caused Michael to turn on Jan.

[ISiddiqui]

I think Michael's sales ability, and being a nice person in Wallace's eyes, is why Michael has his job. For instance during the interview for Pam's job, which is more interesting now given what we know, Michael remarked how impressed he was that Michael didn't lose a single account during the merger. Still, Jan's recommendation was dead on and you'd have to think that Ryan would write a similar evaluation. So just how long could Michael hang on for?

Well, if Michael is the top seller in the company, then he could hang on for quite a while. I mean I assume companies will hang on to people who are horrible as long as they produce the results, and especially some of the best results.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I thought last night's episode was the best of the year. It was hilarious and still managed to hit the proper emotional chords, which is really when The Office is at it's peak. The show's best episodes combine hilarity and that genuine emotion/human touch that you rarely find in 1/2 sitcoms.

[larrymcg421]

It's a shame that will be the last episode for a long time. The next script sounded awesome. It's about Jim and Pam coming over to Michael and Jan's for a dinner party.

[Daimyo]

Michael is a horrible manager in the sense that he's an idiot, but if his branch puts up good numbers why would they fire him? It seems they do pretty well in sales... Dwight has been salesman of the year multiple times right?

[Daimyo]

DOLA, I loved the episode. This show is so much better when they don't make Michael over the top.

[Barkeep49]

Michael is a horrible manager in the sense that he's an idiot, but if his branch puts up good numbers why would they fire him? It seems they do pretty well in sales... Dwight has been salesman of the year multiple times right?
THis is a good point. Not only does Dwight top the charts, but Jim has been top 5 if I recall.

[RPI-Fan]

I don't think that's the right interpretation at all. To Michael, being called a "nice guy" meant alot more to him. He didn't care that he wasn't the first choice for the job, or even one of the top 10. It was important to him to be considered a nice guy. That one comment from the CFO's deposition is what caused Michael to turn on Jan.

This is what I think as well. I think that given the choice for David to give him the job OR make the "nice guy" comment, Michael would choose the "nice guy" comment. I think he honestly believes that is as big of a professional compliment as you can get to call someone a "nice guy" and thus why he returns the favor to David at the end.

[Honolulu_Blue]

This is what I think as well. I think that given the choice for David to give him the job OR make the "nice guy" comment, Michael would choose the "nice guy" comment. I think he honestly believes that is as big of a professional compliment as you can get to call someone a "nice guy" and thus why he returns the favor to David at the end.

I agree. Above all things, David merely wants to be liked by people he respects or thinks are "cool".

[ISiddiqui]

THis is a good point. Not only does Dwight top the charts, but Jim has been top 5 if I recall.

Hell, Dwight beat the website for one day.

[SunDevil]

Hell, Dwight beat the website for one day.

Only with the help of his secret stash of contacts from Office Max. :D

[Raiders Army]

Poor Michael, but just when you want to feel really sad for him, he goes and pushes Toby's lunch off the table (which was hilarious is a painfully funny sort of way).
I really thought that there was going to be a breakthrough in Toby and Michael's relationship there. Anyhow, it was also funny to see Toby laughing about Michael thinking Ryan is hot afterwards.

[Easy Mac]

I nearly started crying from laughter when Kelly sang the Avril Lavigne song... that was brilliant. I did find it odd that Jim sucked so bad at ping pong. He totally seems like the kind of guy who would be good.

The deposition was British Office good in its use of pain as humor. I think Michael respected that Wallace did everything he could to avoid insulting Michael, while Jan had the diary there and ready to use.

[Crapshoot]

I thought last night's episode was the best of the year. It was hilarious and still managed to hit the proper emotional chords, which is really when The Office is at it's peak. The show's best episodes combine hilarity and that genuine emotion/human touch that you rarely find in 1/2 sitcoms.

I'll agree with the group. It may not have been the funniest episode - but it was the best one.

[ISiddiqui]

Only with the help of his secret stash of contacts from Office Max. :D

Staples, IIRC.

[markprior22]

Wow...I feel like I'm really missing out on something. I feel like the show has totally jumped the shark this season. When the gang dressed in fake mustaches, etc, I thought they have obviously run out of ideas.

[Joe]

it's like they ran out of ideas, so they send michael and dwight on some zany mission outside of the office nearly every episode.

except this week's was back to being good.

[MikeVic]

You're not the only one. I still chuckle at a couple things per episode, but overall I'm not liking it as much.

[samifan24]

Wow...I feel like I'm really missing out on something. I feel like the show has totally jumped the shark this season. When the gang dressed in fake mustaches, etc, I thought they have obviously run out of ideas.

I agree that the entire premise of that episode was ridiculous. I find myself enjoying the show but I used to be really excited for the show on Thursdays but now I just TIVO it, hang out at a friend's house and watch it later when I get home.

[Swaggs]

The fake mustache episode was just off in a lot of different ways. It just never "felt" like a regular episode.

I really think the head writer, from week to week, makes a huge difference in the quality of the show. When Toby is the writer, the episodes are usually very good.

[larrymcg421]

I agree that Paul Lieberstein (Toby) episodes are the best, but I can't agree with the criticism of the "fake mustache" episode. I thought that was pretty funny and less over the top than some of the other stuff Michael has done. I especially liked the "Finer Things Club" subplot.

What I really love about this season is how they've focused on developing the characters. The episode "Money" (written by Paul Lieberstein), with Michael in telemarketing and Jim/Pam at Dwight's motel, is one of the best they've ever done. Add to that the last two episodes which have very strongly developed Jim and Michael's characters, and I think they really had something going here. I hope the strike ends soon so we can get back to it.

[Raiders Army]

Yeah, Toby is a good writer. I think that Ryan is a pretty crappy writer (comparatively). Ryan makes Michael look like a one-dimensional ass instead of a three dimensional ass with a heart.

[ISiddiqui]

Yeah, Toby is a good writer. I think that Ryan is a pretty crappy writer (comparatively). Ryan makes Michael look like a one-dimensional ass instead of a three dimensional ass with a heart.

Which is amusing, because that totally mirrors their character counterparts. Ryan is very narrow focused, one view type of character, while Toby tries to see more sides (as he keeps trying to open up and help out Michael, where Ryan has just rid himself of Michael when he moved up the ladder).

[Pyser]

no love for the episode last night?

i thought they packed a lot in to 30 minutes, laughed at a good number of things, despite how ridiculous it got.

glad its back.

[Dunleavy]

yeah they didn't waste half the show on a meaningless dead end sub plot which was nice for a change

[Galaxy]

I love the small plasma tv.

[MikeVic]

I didn't like the episode when Dwight wasn't there. I don't know what it was, I think just a bit too weird/crazy? Dwight getting there kind of changed it for me. I think that means Dwight is my fav.

[GrantDawg]

It was a great return episode. One of the best this season.

[Eaglesfan27]

no love for the episode last night?

i thought they packed a lot in to 30 minutes, laughed at a good number of things, despite how ridiculous it got.

glad its back.

I just got around to watching it this morning. I loved the episode, so many lol lines as well as a few great reactions. My favorite line was: "I don't care what they say about me, I just want to eat, which I realize is a lot to ask for at a dinner party."

I also loved the line about Mike and Jan playing a game about making their guests crazy and Jim saying "they are both winning."

[GrantDawg]

I just got around to watching it this morning. I loved the episode, so many lol lines as well as a few great reactions. My favorite line was: "I don't care what they say about me, I just want to eat, which I realize is a lot to ask for at a dinner party."

I also loved the line about Mike and Jan playing a game about making their guests crazy and Jim saying "they are both winning."


And, was it jus me, or was Pam particularly hot tonight.

[Toddzilla]

"Awesome!"

[Eaglesfan27]

And, was it jus me, or was Pam particularly hot tonight.

I think she always look great, but yeah, she looked particularly hot in this episode. I think they let Jenna Fischer glam up Pam a bit for the party.

[Swaggs]

The tripod cracked me up.

At first I thought it was supposed to be subtle and was disappointed that Jan pointed it out, but they made up for it by panning to Michael's face, showing that he had left it out to show off. :)

[Dr. Sak]

THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!!!

[ISiddiqui]

It was a great return episode. One of the best this season.

I completely agree. I was on the floor. The way Jan treated Michael, while utterly wrong, was very amusing (small bed at the end of the big bed, redecorating the entire condo, making him get a 20 in flat screen).

[Raiders Army]

Best part: The song Jan was listening to.
Worst part: 3 vasectomies and 2 reversals. I'm not sure that's physically possible.

[mrsimperless]

Yeah, that song and Jan's dancing to it were both absolutely perfect.

[ISiddiqui]

And everyone except Michael knew what that song was talking about. Pooor Michael :(.

[Comey]

I like what they're doing with the Jan character. The meltdown, with the realization of what she's thrown away and what she threw it away for, is a great contrast with the dominating, yet passive-aggressive, figure she portrays.

It seems quite complex for the last generation of sitcoms. Great, great character buildup.

[watravaler]

So, a spin-off has been confirmed? Just a matter of time before the careers of the emerging actors dead-end this show...

[Galaxy]

They are doing a great job in hiding Angela's pregnancy (I think she due at the end of next month).

[Dr. Sak]

Michael: Wow this wine has an oaky after birth..

[Raiders Army]

So, a spin-off has been confirmed? Just a matter of time before the careers of the emerging actors dead-end this show...

Yes for this Fall.

[sachmo71]

I think she always look great, but yeah, she looked particularly hot in this episode. I think they let Jenna Fischer glam up Pam a bit for the party.

My wife and I watched Walk Hard last night, and she kept commenting on how pretty Jenna was in that movie. Jenna has always struck me as "cute", but I can see how she could be hot.

[CamEdwards]

what's this news of a spin-off? any links or information about the casting?

[ISiddiqui]

My wife and I watched Walk Hard last night, and she kept commenting on how pretty Jenna was in that movie. Jenna has always struck me as "cute", but I can see how she could be hot.

Watch "Blades of Glory".

[Comey]

what's this news of a spin-off? any links or information about the casting?

The information I've read (google "The Office spinoff") has either Dwight getting his own show, or introducing an entire new crew on The Office, and bringing them to the spin-off.

I'm not sure I have faith in the latter, since they've already done that with Jim going to Stamford. That may have been their best chance at a spinoff (since you could build around Jim. You can do that with Dwight too, but Jim, in my view, has the best chance at a show succeeding.), because they could've drawn Jim out, and the merger out more, or not even do the merger, and send Jim back to Scranton to be the regional-manager-to-be to succeed Michael. Then you could revisit the Pam situation.

But, that wad's been shot. I'm not sure I could see them go down that road once again.

[samifan24]

I heard a rumor that the new show could feature Andy in a starring role.

[larrymcg421]

They've said it definitely won't be Dwight, since his interaction with Michael and Jim is too integral to the show. The only rumor I've heard has been Andy, but I'm not even sure he'll be included.

My guess is that they just do a show about one of the other branches, and it only has minimal conections to the original.

[Comey]

I did forget to mention that the Dwight information was older (2007), while a new cast was on April 8th.

[Raiders Army]

Andy's the only one who could carry the show other than the big four (Michael, Jim, Dwight, Pam). Well, I could see Darryl from the warehouse carrying a show too. :)

[Daimyo]

Andy is the only expendable character on the show who could carry a new show IMO.

[ISiddiqui]

My guess is that they just do a show about one of the other branches, and it only has minimal conections to the original.

I was thinking they may be able to a show based on Karen's branch.

[Daimyo]

Maybe it could focus on corporate headquarters and Ryan?

[Raiders Army]

I was thinking they may be able to a show based on Karen's branch.

I thought that too, but Rashida Jones is on another sitcom, Unhitched. It's on Fox though, so it could get cancelled.

[ISiddiqui]

I thought that too, but Rashida Jones is on another sitcom, Unhitched. It's on Fox though, so it could get cancelled.

LOL. It's funny because its true (has it been canceled yet? ;) No seriously, that show does suck ass).

[ISiddiqui]

"I want to be able to play catch with my kid before I get too old
... and to do that, I need to get laid"

LOL!!

[Raiders Army]

It took my a second, but Pam's landlady is the Home Ec teacher from Superbad.

[ISiddiqui]

I love how Michael makes the comment about her being an old lady on the bus and the landlady says how rude that is and Michael tells her that she ruined it, LOL!!

Though, did anyone notice that when Jim walked away from Pam's desk after saying he was serious about proposing, she had this scared look on her face? How long have they been dating? And getting a ring 1 week after they started dating? WTF Jim?!

[Crim]

My guess is that they just do a show about one of the other branches, and it only has minimal conections to the original.

I hope they do The Office: Miami starring David Caruso. Because he's funny.

[larrymcg421]

I love how Michael makes the comment about her being an old lady on the bus and the landlady says how rude that is and Michael tells her that she ruined it, LOL!!

Though, did anyone notice that when Jim walked away from Pam's desk after saying he was serious about proposing, she had this scared look on her face? How long have they been dating? And getting a ring 1 week after they started dating? WTF Jim?!

I don't think she was scared. At first, she thinks he's kidding around like they always do, but doesn't realize he's serious until he walks away. To me, it seemed she was just a bit stunned by the revelation.

As for the ring, he got it a week after they were dating, but they'd been in love alot longer than that.

[ISiddiqui]

I don't think she was scared. At first, she thinks he's kidding around like they always do, but doesn't realize he's serious until he walks away. To me, it seemed she was just a bit stunned by the revelation.

As for the ring, he got it a week after they were dating, but they'd been in love alot longer than that.

I dunno, it seemed to me that she was thinking WAAAAY too soon and that's what her face revealed.

I realize that they've been in love longer than when they started dating... but to get a ring THAT soon anyway... that's kinda creepy, at least IMO.

[GrantDawg]

I dunno, it seemed to me that she was thinking WAAAAY too soon and that's what her face revealed.

I realize that they've been in love longer than when they started dating... but to get a ring THAT soon anyway... that's kinda creepy, at least IMO.


I think so, too. This is all setting up for the big question and the shocking answer. No.

[Raiders Army]

I wonder how Jim would feel if Pam kissed Roy? I hope he'd be okay with that since he was the sleaze to do it to Roy.

[ISiddiqui]

I think so, too. This is all setting up for the big question and the shocking answer. No.

Yeah, and I hope I'm not thinking that that is what is going to happen because that's what I want to see (Needs to be some tension... can't be perfect relationship here. That'd just be boring)

[larrymcg421]

I certainly disagree about that. Boring was watching Ross and Rachel break up over and over and over again. There's been enough tension for Jim and Pam (with more than a few contrivances thrown in to keep it going). The real challenge would be to see if the writers can show them as a happy, normal couple that progresses smoothly. They have enough tension with the other characters and their own relationships.

[MikeVic]

They're gonna get married and be spun off into their own sitcom. :p

[ISiddiqui]

I certainly disagree about that. Boring was watching Ross and Rachel break up over and over and over again. There's been enough tension for Jim and Pam (with more than a few contrivances thrown in to keep it going). The real challenge would be to see if the writers can show them as a happy, normal couple that progresses smoothly. They have enough tension with the other characters and their own relationships.

Considering I've already started to get a little bored of their relationship, yeah, I'd say it'd be boring if it was happily ever after :p.

[larrymcg421]

Considering I've already started to get a little bored of their relationship, yeah, I'd say it'd be boring if it was happily ever after :p.

I guess we're looking at this from completely opposite perspectives then. I'd probably stop watching if they went the standard route of will they/won't they tension. They could just hire some writers away from Two and a Half Men to do that.

[ISiddiqui]

There doesn't need to be a will they, won't they. But just some regular relationship tension. Right now they seem like perfect couple Jim and Pam. Haven't even seemed to have any fights even.

[larrymcg421]

There doesn't need to be a will they, won't they. But just some regular relationship tension. Right now they seem like perfect couple Jim and Pam. Haven't even seemed to have any fights even.

Right, but they can have tension without her declining his proposal. That action would lead us right back to will they/won't they. I think we've seen some glimpses of their career aspirations and i think some tension will evolve from that. I agree with you that small moment tension like that would be good. But you seem to be asking for big moment tension, which I think would be stupid.

[ISiddiqui]

Well, she could easily say, its too soon for that... and Jim grumbles and puts the ring back, but they continue dating.

[Dr. Sak]

Hey Oscar Meyer Weiner...lover...

That quote cracked me up!

[Comey]

What an incredible, and incredibly messed up, episode.

[MikeVic]

That was a good ep. I don't think Michael Scott was as stupid in that one, or if he was, then I was successfully distracted by other stuff. :)

[ISiddiqui]

That was awesome. When Toby lingered his hand on Pam's knee and then said he was moving to Costa Rica and jumped the fence, I was just DYING!

And Dwight "I'm not going to call". Nice. Michael's telling the woman he was a bank teller, because Ryan told him to tell girls he works in finance had me on the floor.

[ISiddiqui]

Dola

I also liked that in this one Jim totally screwed up. He usually is Mr. Perfect and in this one he couldn't do anything right... well, partly because Dwight had both keys ("When I die, you'll be dead 2 weeks beforehand", LOL)

[Swaggs]

Another good episode tonight. I love the episodes that have a lot of Andy in them -- I think they could get a little more mileage out of him.

Looks like the arc is going to be that Jim's life isn't going to keep running smoothly, since he's had two rough episodes in a row now.

[Crapshoot]

Eh, I thought tonight was just... bad.

[larrymcg421]

I thought it was very good. A little more dramatic than usual, but stayed in tune with the characters. Couple of interesting things...

*Pam responds to Jim's fake proposal by saying, "If you propose to me in Michael's meeting, I will say no." To me, this implies she's planning on saying yes.

*It is well documented on camera that both Ryan and Toby sexually harassed Pam. Ryan can threaten Jim all he wants, but there's no way he's getting fired with that out there, and David Wallace wouldn't approve it anyways.

[ISiddiqui]

I enjoyed last night's episode as well. Michael, actually, well after the crying handled his employee very well (that's fine that you don't respect me, but you can't say that to me in front of everyone).

Dwight pushing the hard sell on Andy and then reselling for a higher price was just hilarious (and did Angela actually smile a bit when Dwight pulled that off?). And then Dwight tried the hard sell with Michael ("the Emergency Plan", LOLOL!!!) and it didn't work at all. Ah, Dwight.

Though, however unrealistic, I would have given anything to see Michael try to tickle Stanley.

[Raiders Army]

Do it. 3-2-1....5, 4, 3, 2, do it. Sell me the car. Do it. Do it.

[Raiders Army]

I enjoyed last night's episode as well. Michael, actually, well after the crying handled his employee very well (that's fine that you don't respect me, but you can't say that to me in front of everyone).

The funny thing about that is that Stanley agreed to fake respect Michael, which was what he was doing before this episode.

[MikeVic]

DID I STUTTER!?

[ISiddiqui]

The funny thing about that is that Stanley agreed to fake respect Michael, which was what he was doing before this episode.

I don't think it was a fake respect... but more of a "you can't call me out in front of everyone" anymore. In the very end (when he tells everyone except Phyllis out of the room), Stanley is still doing a crossword. He's just not yelling at Michael when called on.

[Raiders Army]

Ah, but he said something to the effect of "that sounds like your best idea yet".

[Andiamo]

I loved:

Dwight: And... go. [Michael sticks his face in the cement] Force it in as deep as you can.
Michael: [muffled] That's what she said.

[TazFTW]

He is soooo annoying.

I hope that wasn't a hint that the spinoff involves Pam.

[GrantDawg]

He is soooo annoying.

I hope that wasn't a hint that the spinoff involves Pam.


It won't. One person is leaving at the end of the season, so they are trying to make it look like it could be anyone by giving them all reasons. It will not be Jim, Pam or Micheal, but it could be just about anyone else (though Dwight is unlikely, he would be a spin-off canidate).

This was not one of the better episodes at all, but still decent.

[Butter]

-I would never say this to her face, but Pam is a great artist and a wonderful person.
-Wait, why wouldn't you say that to her face?

[Dr. Sak]

I loved it when Andy flipped the cart into the sand trap.

[ISiddiqui]

Wasn't fond of this episode. Michael as buffoon ones really work when he goes WAAAY overboard, and taking the mic wasn't it.

But yeah, the "why wouldn't you say that to her face" was hilarious. And "kiss her good"... whoa, creepy.

[Subby]

Andy was on fire in this episode.

[Raiders Army]

"The people I didn't bring along are much better."

[Raiders Army]

Oh, and Creed: "I was finished with my work months ago."

[Raiders Army]

Double dola, Office trivia game on nbc.com: http://www.nbc.com/The_Office/justforfun/trivia.shtml

I played single player and the first time got 14/20.

[Doug5984]

Damn that was tough, got a 16, but there were a couple blind lucky guesses

[Dr. Sak]

And "kiss her good"... whoa, creepy.

http://theofficequotes.com/screencaps/images/michael-scott-kiss.jpg

[RainMaker]

It won't. One person is leaving at the end of the season, so they are trying to make it look like it could be anyone by giving them all reasons. It will not be Jim, Pam or Micheal, but it could be just about anyone else (though Dwight is unlikely, he would be a spin-off canidate).

This was not one of the better episodes at all, but still decent.
I think creating a spin-off with any of the main characters would be a real bad idea. I still think there is a chance it'll be Jim considering his career as an actor has taken off and he may not want to be playing the supporting actor for too long. I hope not and believe that removing Jim, Pam, Michael, or Dwight would hurt the show.

My guess is that it'll be Andy, although they haven't led on about this at all. I'd also love to see Creed in a more prominent role in a spin-off (he is my favorite character). I'm just hoping they don't pluck someone big from the cast as they really work together well. But from a TV perspective, they have to figure this show has maybe 1 or 2 years left in it. The storylines are starting to get dull and many of the main actors are getting bigger and bigger in the movie industry.

Which leads to a longshot that they'd remove Jim and Pam (or just Jim) for a new show. Their storyline is complete now and there isn't anywhere else to go. Taking both out of the show and bringing in new blood (I think Amy Ryan is joining the cast) might liven up the show a bit without pissing off all the people who feel invested in the Jim/Pam stuff. I still think removing big names like that is bad, and the Jim/Dwight banter is one of my favorite parts of the show, but NBC is retarded and will probably do it.

[cody8200]

I played single player and the first time got 14/20. Very tough indeed.

[larrymcg421]

It's not going to be one of the major characters in the spinoff. If they bring any character over, it would be Andy. He's the funniest/most notable character that they could lose without much problem.

Jim/Pam? No way, they would lose about half of their demographic if they did that. The ratings would sink faster than Phyllis' friend in a rowboat.

[dervack]

Not sure if this is actually the answer to the spinoff, however I just saw the title for the episode somewhere...


Goodbye, Toby.

[MikeVic]

I really don't want a spin-off to get started. I think the current cast is great together, and even though I don't like the show as much as I used to, I don't want to see anyone gone. Maybe Michael.

[Raiders Army]

Not sure if this is actually the answer to the spinoff, however I just saw the title for the episode somewhere...


Goodbye, Toby.

Toby doesn't have the chops nor the star power to do a spinoff. Then again, nobody thought Enos from the Dukes of Hazzard would get his own show. Anyhow, maybe Toby spins off into another show and he isn't the main character...could that be a possibility?

The season finale is a goodbye party for Toby and Angela quits the Party Planning Committee.

[OldGiants]

I really don't want a spin-off to get started. I think the current cast is great together, and even though I don't like the show as much as I used to, I don't want to see anyone gone. Maybe Michael.

On the other hand, one from Toby, Andy, Kevin et al. could be the next Gomer Pyle, USMC.

One never knows with network TV.

[Passacaglia]

I think Ryan would make a good choice.

[Swaggs]

I think Ryan would make a good choice.

Surprised that Ryan hadn't been brought up yet.

He is certainly expendable and has already made his exit. And, just my opinion, but I think he brings very little to the show. I never really understood/understand why he was/is a featured castmember.

[Dr. Sak]

Swaggs has a man crush on Ryan.

[Draft Dodger]

Ryan, Kelly and Toby are all regular producers / writers on the show, not that that necessarily precludes any of them from moving to a spinoff.

personally, the only character beyond the main 4 (Michael, Dwight, Jim, Pam) that I can picture in a larger role would be Andy.

[larrymcg421]

Wasn't sure if anyone else had mentioned this here, but Mike Schur (writer, producer, Cousin Mose) is Ken Tremendous from the Fire Joe Morgan blog.

[Philliesfan980]

Edit

[Comey]

In what way? I rather really, really enjoyed that episode. It was the first time in a very long time I was actually on the edge of my seat, for almost the entire show.

I thought it was absolutely superb.

[Philliesfan980]

edit for spoiler

[Comey]

The one thing that the writers have proven with this show, as far as we've seen so far, is that they know the line between "right amount of JAM" and "too much PBJ".

I have faith that they'll be able to keep that going, especially since now, they each have new stories to have play out.

Also, just a heads up...we probably shouldn't be talking about any specifics of the show until the west coast people get to see it (ie the stuff about Pam and an artsy guy). I know I'd have been *pissed* if I was spoiled tonight, no matter how little or ambiguous the comment. That's how much I was looking forward to this show.

[Raiders Army]

Can't find that video on youtube.

[Raiders Army]

It was a good episode and it started at the beginning. The part before the opening credits harkened back to season 1 or 2 with Jim messing with Dwight.

[larrymcg421]

The Jim/Pam resolution was stupid. If they want to stretch it out longer before the engagement, that's fine, but they used a stupid sitcom contrivance to do it. This was something out a shit show like Two and a Half Men and not worthy of the superior writing we usually get from The Office. Very disappointing.

[Raiders Army]

I won't rehash the whole spoiler argument, but why would you pop in the thread if you haven't seen it yet? So you can post speculation?

Anyhow: "Mr. Andrew Bernard...has a nice ring to it."