Xixax Film Forum

Doing the rounds on radio stations here is the rumour that Spielberg has spoken to Ricky Gervais about taking The Office to Hollywood. Hasn't been confirmed yet though.

The Dance that made him famous.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/theoffice/renaissance/ram/ren_man_dancer.ram
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/theoffice/renaissance/index.shtml

This show is fantastic! I watched 5 of the 6 episodes of Season 1 on DVD yesterday. ... I'll watch the last one tonight, and then Season 2 debuts on BBC America tomorrow (Sunday) night at 9 p.m. (great timing  :-D )

"Get my guitar" could be a catchphrase worthy of anything from "Office Space."

The thing that really surprises me about the show is that while it's as funny and mean-spirited as everyone says, it has a big heart, with the Tim-Dawn subplot. Great stuff.

Bold statement: David Brent is one of the most fascinating characters of all time.

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Agree wholeheartedly.

whoa, deja vu

Quote from: rustinglasswhoa, deja vu

Yeah, you would.

I haven't even heard of this show, besides the Golden Globes. Does it air in the US?

I think it aired on some cable channel.  I've never seen it

they're going to American-ize it the same way they did Coupling which died after 1 or 2 episodes

Best Buy is having a deal this week where if you buy seasons 1 and 2, you save $10.

anyone know anything about the christmas special episodes and whether or not that DVD will be released in america anytime soon?  i've seen some people selling it on ebay.

I finally saw season 1.  It took me a couple of the episodes for me to get into it, but once I did it was great.  I imagine they have great replay value.

http://www.bbcshop.com/invt/bbcdvd1374

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October 25th in the UK.  No word on a US release, though I suspect it would be around the same time.

Thank God for Bit Torrent. The Christmas episodes really wrapped the series up nicely. It's going to be a while before a comedy series comes along that grows on you as well as The Office.

has anyone else noticed that it loses most of its former glory in the second series?

i don't understand what happened.

example featuring quasi spoilers for the first and second series:
every episode in the first series ends (ie cuts quick, in a really funny way, to credits) with a clear, conclusive, shocking line. often the dumbest, or most hypocritical thing that could be said.
in the second series, (at least the three episodes i've seen so far), every episode ends with a dumb, inconclusive, or vaguely uncalled-for awkward silence.

The second series goes for a more serious tone, but that was what I was hoping for going into it.  The first one is mostly fun and games, but in the second one we actually see some repercussions for David Brent's general incompetence.

About the song during the credits: I can't undrstand all the words. Can someone fill in an/or correct if I have some wrong?

So what becomes of you, my love?
When they have finally..............
The handbags and the................
That your grandpa had to sweat so you could buy them.

thanks

the song is called 'handbags and gladrags' . It's a rod stewart song, i know stereophonics cover it, but i'm not sure who does the cover during the office credits. the lyrics are...

So what becomes of you my love
When they have finally stripped you of
The handbags and the gladrags
That your Grandad had to sweat so you could buy
Baby

the office is my favorite show at the moment. its so great. anyone know some good quotes? so far my favorite moment was when they have the training seminar and david brent is acting out a scene with the instructor and he inturrupts the instuctors character by saying, "I think there's been a rape!"... its not too funny written down, but the scene is fucking halarious.

there are so many good ones. off the top of my head:

Gareth: The dog's name was "nigger".
David: You don't have to repeat it, it was back in the 40's before racism was bad.

*Admin-edited for accuracy*

instructor: Gareth, quick test exercise, ultimate fantasy?
Gareth: Hmm?
Brent: We're just doing the ultimate fantasy, we're all doing it.
Gareth: Two lesbians probably, sisters. I'm just watching.
instructor: ... ... okay.. um, Tim? Do you have one?
Tim: I'd never thought I'd say this, but can I hear more from Gareth, please?

My favorite part is : There are things that I'll never laugh at. The handicapped. Because there's nothing funny about them. Or any deformity. It's like when you see someone look at a little handicapped and go 'ooh, look at him, he's not able-bodied. I am, I'm prejudiced.' Yeah, well, at least the little handicapped fella is able-minded. Unless he's not, it's difficult to tell with the with the wheelchair ones.

or the part where David puts : 'You're simply the best' after his motivational speech

Quote from: Pas RapportMy favorite part is : There are things that I’ll never laugh at. The handicapped. Because there’s nothing funny about them. Or any deformity. It’s like when you see someone look at a little handicapped and go ‘ooh, look at him, he’s not able-bodied. I am, I’m prejudiced.’ Yeah, well, at least the little handicapped fella is able-minded. Unless he’s not, it’s difficult to tell with the with the wheelchair ones.

David's treatment of the handicapped is so damn backward that its funny.  Gareth does that stuff too, like when he wanted to test the handicapped woman's legs by poking them with a pin.

I recently rewatched the series and it's even better the 2nd time around.  I think it's becoming a must buy dvd for me.

Favorite quote?  See my sig.

I've seen the pilot for the American take.  It works and it doesn't.  Steve Carrell doesn't even bother trying to ape Gervais, he takes the boss role into a whole other realm of bad jokes and awkwardness, most of his scenes are cringe-inducing (in a good way).  The guy they got for Tim is trying to hard to ape Martin Freeman, but he works.  The Dawn character could have been cuter.  As for Gareth, well... let's just hope they take Rainn Wilson in a different direction.  He just comes off too creepy and nuts.

The pilot is basically a copy of the first Brit Office, albeit w/ some american-ized references and some trims here and there.  I still laughed at some of the old jokes, and even at some of the new ones.  

I'm glad to hear that they're going 'off-book' for the 6 mid-season episodes that were ordered.

Quote from: Weak2ndActI've seen the pilot for the American take.  It works and it doesn't.  Steve Carrell doesn't even bother trying to ape Gervais, he takes the boss role into a whole other realm of bad jokes and awkwardness, most of his scenes are cringe-inducing (in a good way).  The guy they got for Tim is trying to hard to ape Martin Freeman, but he works.  The Dawn character could have been cuter.  As for Gareth, well... let's just hope they take Rainn Wilson in a different direction.  He just comes off too creepy and nuts.

There's just some cases where capital punishment is too lenient. Americanizing great BBC shows is just such a case.

Here I was thinking that Arrested Developement was our The Office.  :?

Quote from: Raikus

Quote from: Weak2ndActI've seen the pilot for the American take.  It works and it doesn't.  Steve Carrell doesn't even bother trying to ape Gervais, he takes the boss role into a whole other realm of bad jokes and awkwardness, most of his scenes are cringe-inducing (in a good way).  The guy they got for Tim is trying to hard to ape Martin Freeman, but he works.  The Dawn character could have been cuter.  As for Gareth, well... let's just hope they take Rainn Wilson in a different direction.  He just comes off too creepy and nuts.

There's just some cases where capital punishment is too lenient. Americanizing great BBC shows is just such a case.

I don't know, I feel I don't get many jokes on the Office because of british reference... I kinda look forward to this version.

Quote from: Pas RapportI don't know, I feel I don't get many jokes on the Office because of british reference... I kinda look forward to this version.

Well, for me, the series worked on its own and struck a dynamic that I think can never be reproduced. But when a show like this is made in America it turns from this:

Quote from: BBC VersionThere are things that I'll never laugh at. The handicapped. Because there's nothing funny about them. Or any deformity. It's like when you see someone look at a little handicapped and go 'ooh, look at him, he's not able-bodied. I am, I'm prejudiced.' Yeah, well, at least the little handicapped fella is able-minded. Unless he's not, it's difficult to tell with the with the wheelchair ones.

To this:

Quote from: American ButcheringI don't laugh at SOME stuff. Like the handicapped. Because they aren't funny. Or anyone with disabilities. You may look at someone a little handicapped and go 'look at him, poor handicapped guy. But then realize you're not being politically correct. At least the cripple is being P.C. Unless he's a little Woo-woo in the head. Can never tell.

Quote from: Raikus

Quote from: American ButcheringI don't laugh at SOME stuff. Like the handicapped. Because they aren't funny. Or anyone with disabilities. You may look at someone a little handicapped and go 'look at him, poor handicapped guy. But then realize you're not being politically correct. At least the cripple is being P.C. Unless he's a little Woo-woo in the head. Can never tell.

Oh, that's just awful.

Thank you. I'd just like to annouce that based on my reworking of dialogue on the hit BBC show "The Office," NBC has hired me to begin updating "Blackadder" starring Steve Harvey for next fall's schedule.

what will be the setting for this one? the vietman trenches?

edit: or barracks, I'm really not an expert on that war

Quote from: lamasanyone know anything about the christmas special episodes and whether or not that DVD will be released in america anytime soon?  i've seen some people selling it on ebay.

i think they're out. i got them from the city library when i got the rest of the series a little bit ago.

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Coming November 16th.

They're only going to able to do so many business poses for dvd covers... I hope they're aware of this.

The UK cover on page 1 is better.

I just watched the First Series, and I must say...

I have never been so depressed watching a tele-show in my life.

Everything about office life depresses me to no end.

I just rented the first season of it... will post thoughts later this week.

Quote from: CinephileI just rented the first season of it... will post thoughts later this week.

It easily lands in my top 3 television shows ever.

Admin edit: SPOILERS

My next name is Slough.  When I feel like it, though.

My thoughts of Season 1:

Quote from: Jeremy BlackmanBold statement: David Brent is one of the most fascinating characters of all time.

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree too. The nuances that Gervais adds to Brent are endless. Just endless. The eye shifting to the camera, the smirking, the "yea?" after making points. The complexities behind the character make him fascinating, yes.

Quote from: SHAFTRI finally saw season 1. It took me a couple of the episodes for me to get into it, but once I did it was great. I imagine they have great replay value.

Oh hell yes, do they ever. I've already watched the episodes 2 or 3 times each. The jokes get funnier and funnier. And more jokes come out of the show.

I could say more about this, and I probably will later.. I suggest everybody buy Season 1. Comedy at its finest.

Quote from: Cinephile...the "yea?" after making points.

Reminds me of Ridley and Tony Scott.

Quote from: meatballing

Quote from: Cinephile...the "yea?" after making points.

Reminds me of Ridley and Tony Scott.

haha. they're just being british. u know, speaking normally.

i suppose u are also fascinated by the phrase "innit?" (literal translation: "isn't it"; meaning: "right, u know?")

it's not the novelty of the english way of speaking that makes this show great. the subtle character traits of the supporting cast are brilliant. the documentary on the dvd about the evolution of the show was really ekzellent, that stephen merchant dude seems like a cool guy. and it was great to learn how brilliant little moments like between dawn and tim were improvised.

Quote from: Pubricki suppose u are also fascinated by the phrase "innit?" (literal translation: "isn't it"; meaning: "right, u know?")

No, it's the fact that when David says "yea?" it adds more to his ego/patronizing side.

dumbass.

that's better exemplified when he blinks in slow motion and his eyes roll a bit to the back of his head.

jerk.

For those keeping score at home, I should point out to everyone that David Brent is the only character in television history to do these things.

Quote from: Ravi(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.amazon.com%2Fimages%2FP%2FB0002W4P8Y.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg&hash=8f471169225f95ddaea7ad75953da3e7e4987ca9)

Coming November 16th.

amazon is saying that this will be over $20

does anybody have info on all of the bountiful extras they're stuffing it with to merit that price?

Quote from: Sleuthamazon is saying that this will be over $20

does anybody have info on all of the bountiful extras they're stuffing it with to merit that price?

But, it's The Office. What more do you need?

more than an hour's worth

Quote from: Sleuthmore than an hour's worth

:(

Yeah, more than an hour's worth.  I don't think I'm being unreasonable here

Quote from: SleuthYeah, more than an hour's worth.

Bonus features include director's commentary, an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary, making of "Freelove Freeway" single, a music clip of the "Freelove Freeway" single and the "If You Don't Love Me By Now" complete music video.

OKAY YOU GUYS, I'M IN!

I watched all of season 2 last night.

(incoming spoilers)

I can see where picolas is coming from with how the episodes end, but I also agree with Ravi in that I'm glad it took a more sincere approach. The sub-plot between Dawn and Tim was fantastic and after Tim paid for a kiss and Dawn insisted they kiss.. that moment was worth all the time and money I ever put into the show. And the last episode with David pleading for his job back.. I have to say, I felt so bad for him that my eyes were almost going to water too. But in an earlier scene, when he's told he's being let go, and he gets up revealing the bird costume.. I think that was the funniest bit out of the entire series.

Now I just need to see all those specials that came after season 2. There's a thing in Entertainment Weekly promoting a special that'll be on in late October. Is that the same thing coming to DVD in November?

Quote from: Weak2ndAct
I've seen the pilot for the American take.  It works and it doesn't.  Steve Carrell doesn't even bother trying to ape Gervais, he takes the boss role into a whole other realm of bad jokes and awkwardness, most of his scenes are cringe-inducing (in a good way).  The guy they got for Tim is trying to hard to ape Martin Freeman, but he works.  The Dawn character could have been cuter.  As for Gareth, well... let's just hope they take Rainn Wilson in a different direction.  He just comes off too creepy and nuts.

The pilot is basically a copy of the first Brit Office, albeit w/ some american-ized references and some trims here and there.  I still laughed at some of the old jokes, and even at some of the new ones.  

I'm glad to hear that they're going 'off-book' for the 6 mid-season episodes that were ordered.

I picked up a copy of the UK edition of Esquire, and there's an article mentioning that NBC isn't going to put it on the air after seeing the pilot episode.

"NBC canned The Office in pre-production. Network bosses fear that the show remained too close to the English original in two crucial ways. First, US viewers are much less familiar with the style of observational documentary parodied in The Office. The other is that (Michael) Scott  retains Brent's loser status.

It remains a striking fact that Britcoms are often about losers, while US shows feature winners. The Friends characters have the apartments of millionaires; Frasier may be a pain but he's a celebrity shrink. I recently gave a talk about TV comedy to some Americans who were simply bemused by Brent. How could someone so hapless hold down that job?

This may be a bizarre objection, given that George W. Bush frequently looks like David Brent as President, but the view that failure isn't funny is the likeliest reason for the failure of The Office: An American Workplace."

Unless something's changed in the past few days, the American version is still on.  A couple days ago, I met someone who works on the show and grilled them about what's what.

The show is set for midseason.  6 episode commitment, all new stories.

Quote
I picked up a copy of the UK edition of Esquire, and there's an article mentioning that NBC isn't going to put it on the air after seeing the pilot episode.

"NBC canned The Office in pre-production. Network bosses fear that the show remained too close to the English original in two crucial ways. First, US viewers are much less familiar with the style of observational documentary parodied in The Office. The other is that (Michael) Scott  retains Brent's loser status.

It remains a striking fact that Britcoms are often about losers, while US shows feature winners. The Friends characters have the apartments of millionaires; Frasier may be a pain but he's a celebrity shrink. I recently gave a talk about TV comedy to some Americans who were simply bemused by Brent. How could someone so hapless hold down that job?

This may be a bizarre objection, given that George W. Bush frequently looks like David Brent as President, but the view that failure isn't funny is the likeliest reason for the failure of The Office: An American Workplace."

horrible generalizations there.  i'm american and i don't watch most sitcoms because they fucking BLOW.  wouldn't that mean that i would hate the office because it's not about "winners"?  what about seinfeld?  wasn't george pretty much a failure?  i'd classify the simpsons as losers and the same with roseanne and countless other american sitcom families?  who the fuck wrote that article!?  they should be fired.

hey lamas, did a car drive over a puddle and splash you? let's talk about this....

what's up?

I just finished watching the Christmas Special (downloaded it).

*spoilers*



... I cried at the end. There I said it.

Quote from: CinephileI just finished watching the Christmas Special (downloaded it).

*spoilers*



... I cried at the end. There I said it.

I cried like a fucking baby when I saw the last episode. That show is something utterly unique and moving.
SPOILER


When Brent tells Finch to fuck off, that's what got me bawling, the fact that David really, truly liked that girl so much...it made me feel so fucking happy.

I didn't think I was gonna do it, but the show fuckin' nabbed me when Dawn re-enters and kisses Tim. Unbelievable.

And yeah, telling Finch to fuck off was great. I haven't not laughed once at David's final line of the show when he misses the photograph. That's still received a genuine loud laugh from me every time.

I loved how this was a more internally frustrated David Brent in that he now goes to the lengths to almost say "For fuck's sake." This exchange is particularly hilarious:

"Your name is David too?"
"Aw, for fu-- yes!"

Oh, you stopped putting spoiler warnings.  Ricky Gervais was on Letterman last night and I missed it.

Fuck, I missed it too.  :cry:

I will kill you

Come say that to my face.

Quote from: SleuthRicky Gervais was on Letterman last night and I missed it.

yeah i saw him and he was hilarious, although i've never seen The Office. although i think thats the show i will watch next after i get through Arrested Development Season One.  he got more time than Jude Law and letterman called the office "possibly the best show ever?" and gervais said 'what do you mean possibly?'  but it was funny when he said it.

Fuck, even you saw it.

I WILL KILL YOU CINEPHILE

Quote from: SleuthI WILL KILL YOU CINEPHILE

Oh Sleuth, you're so cuddly

i saw the letterman thing. he was great. jude law on the other hand, i want to apologise to on behalf of letterman.. possibly the most distracted lettermang has ever been, he kept asking questions jude had just answered.

gervais was funny tho, but he didn't say anything different to what he said the last time he was on.

Quote from: clerkguy23the office is my favorite show at the moment. its so great. anyone know some good quotes? so far my favorite moment was when they have the training seminar and david brent is acting out a scene with the instructor and he inturrupts the instuctors character by saying, "I think there's been a rape!"... its not too funny written down, but the scene is fucking halarious.

Quote from: ranemaka13Here I was thinking that Arrested Developement was our The Office.  :?

Quote from: SHAFTRI finally saw season 1. It took me a couple of the episodes for me to get into it, but once I did it was great. I imagine they have great replay value.

i watched the first 4 episodes of this tonight and i'll admit at first i was not entirely blown away.  but by episode 4 i was just loving it.  the rape outburst in particular was a turning point for me.  after that i was laughing through the whole thing.  i also imagine that re-watching the episodes will bring out tons of character stuff you miss the first time around since its character based humor rather than 'punchline' sitcom blah.  arrested development owes a great debt to this in its wacky characters and documentary style shooing although they both owe everything to spinal tap.  so, i'm excited to watch more as i am the last person on the planet to find this show.

i finished series 2 tonight, so theres only the special for me now.  it was quite different and.... painful.  like, if it were a film, series 1 would be like act one: introducing all the characters, nothing too heavy, laughs and embarrassing good times for all.  series two however, is much heavier and full of just cringeworthy painful moments as the plot thickens and we hit the lowest point.  as it gets more serious with the tim/dawn relationship and especially davids adjustment to having a boss.  it was probably just as funny as season one, if not funnier, but this time there are strings attached.  

SPOILERS SOME...

the last episodes final moments were absolutely brilliant.  when tim gets up and takes off the mike to go talk to dawn and the whole scene plays out in silence..... and i'll tell you, from visiting this thread before i watched the show i couldnt really imagine how you got from the early wackiness to cinephiles saying he cried when he watched the special.  BUT now i get it.  when david starts begging for his job, i felt so incredibly bad for him i wanted to cry too.  which is just so fantastic when you can take a comedy show with a character who is just as unbearable as brent is most of the time and still manage to care about him that much is a pretty amazing feat.  so, series two was really heavy and really depressed me.  you could feel it was going bad for most of the way but by the last episode, it hurts.  cant wait to see the special, hopefully act three will leave a resolution that is more hopeful than act 2.

do yourself a favour and skip c*nephiles posts here

they ruined it

:evil: bad

Quote from: Sleuthdo yourself a favour and skip c*nephiles posts here

they ruined it

:evil: bad

Haha, this is true. Mod, ignore my posts. Seriously.

I saw Spartacus recently, and peter ustinov's character reminded me of david brent a lot.
When Batiatus points a short gladiator out to the rich women and they say "on no!" and he says "well it's a pity, you know he's much taller in person.. this is just.. an.... optical............NOW THIS ONE!......" it was exactly how david would speak.

Quote from: CinseyI just finished watching the Christmas Special (downloaded it).

*spoilers*



... I cried at the end. There I said it.

I'm guilty as well.

Quote from: SHAFTR

Quote from: CinseyI just finished watching the Christmas Special (downloaded it).

*spoilers*



... I cried at the end. There I said it.

I'm guilty as well.

Just watched it . . . and that makes three of us.

Let's all make out.

No, I'm kidding guys.


seriously though..

Quote from: CinseyLet's all make out.

No, I'm kidding guys.


seriously though..

Cin's in heat.  :shock:

Quote from: Ricky GervaisMatt's asked me [to appear on the Simpsons], and I am working with him for  some ideas. I don't want to do it for the sake of it, so I don't want to crowbar myself in. I don't think I want to play myself because, I don't know really, I don't think I'm famous enough. I don't want to be Brent because that'll only work as a fictional character in a fictional thing. So, we just think of a character and... I got an email the other day from Al Jean the producer saying we'll just work on it.. any ideas and stuff, which is nice. I said that there is no rush and they are the same so it's a long ball game as they say, and I am very excited about that. Also, "Arrested Development" have also asked me as well. That's my new favourite show of the moment. I'm trying to find time to do that.

full interview here: http://www.dvdanswers.com/index.php?r=0&s=13&p=info&c=25&n=1&burl=

just watched the special.  loved it.  didnt cry, but probably because the two surprises had been ruined for me already.  dawn was UNBELIEVEABLY pretty on the final episode.  great show, probably better than AD (so far) and SPACED but not by much.  the interview on the dvd with the cast is almost as funny as the show.

I want to marry Dawn soo bad.

SPOILERS



Too bad the surprise about Dawn and Tim was spoiled on the back of the DVD cover.  The music video was hilarious.  I have yet to watch the doc or the other stuff, but the special was great.

Is anyone going to tune in tonight and watch NBC do to The Office what it did to Coupling?

Should we take bets? I say 3 episodes before it's cancelled.

Is there really such a thing as dry American humor?  The promos I've seen for the American version of The Office don't look terribly funny, though maybe I need to see the jokes in context.  What made the original so great was the deadpan-ness of it.

This is actually going to be good, though.  The first episode is going to be a rehash, so now that we all know that, please don't complain that it's a ripoff.  The real ripoff here is the Tim character who is called Jim and sucks.  Give it a season to find the right rhythm

Quote from: MacGuffinIs anyone going to tune in tonight and watch NBC do to The Office what it did to Coupling?

Should we take bets? I say 3 episodes before it's cancelled.

i'm tivo-ing it.  i'll bet even if its really good, but nowhere near as good as the original, it'll still be cancelled because americans hate different.

Meh.

It's got potential. It was only funny when they did something different. The reused jokes were terrible. The editing was either right on or distracting.

Didn't like it.  The only time I laughed was when Carell kept doing his Six Million Dollar Man impression.  It won't match the original, of course, but I'm willing to give it a few episodes to hit its stride.

Quote from: RaviThe only time I laughed was when Carell kept doing his Six Million Dollar Man impression.  It won't match the original, of course, but I'm willing to give it a few episodes to hit its stride.

ditto.

Quote from: Cinephile

Quote from: RaviThe only time I laughed was when Carell kept doing his Six Million Dollar Man impression.  It won't match the original, of course, but I'm willing to give it a few episodes to hit its stride.

ditto.

That sucks, we missed the beginning of that joke, so it didn't have any punch. I did like him referencing God as a hero, and the "Don' mess with my chillens" line in front of the black guy.

WHAT?! "would a doctor tell his patient they had cancer?" and "i found it at spencer gifts" is exactly the same level of goodness as the first season.

the new gareth is pretty bad and the new tim is trying too hard to be cute, but everything else is mostly really great. the best parts were when they made their own stuff, actually. i didn't like seeing the recycled jokes, but most of them still worked, and some were even improved (e.g. "it was my brother's joke.." and "what a terrible, terrible... person."). i hope the writers let Carrel's version of the character evolve because the style is clearly different from Gervais. it's a different kind of stupid..

i think this will be a great series when they stop using stuff from the other series.

I actually liked the new Gareth. He's nerdy, not creepy, so he's funny in a Milton kind of way. I laughed pretty hard when he started smacking the pencils.

I thought it was nice how Jim mentions Pam's favorite flavor of yogurt, but he had just qualified it as useless information, so it kinda came off prickish, did anyone else get that vibe, if only for a second? I don't think they meant it to be put like that.

It was much better than I expected it to be but the article I read recently that said it out-Arrested Developments Arrested Development is ridiculous.  The anxiety of influence looms large but it was decent.  

The weakest part of it was the Dawn character (Pam?).  She was so deadpan that she comes off flat.  You immediately get why Tim likes Dawn in the British series but I just don't get it in this one.

But one important thing needs to be addressed: regardless of how disappointing it is in comparison to the original series, it's still better than Life on a Stick.

'Office' debut, 'ER' help NBC to top slot Thursday

Despite atypical competition from a special airing of Fox's "American Idol" and CBS' live NCAA basketball coverage, NBC won the a busy night in primetime Thursday with help from the debut of comedy series "The Office" and "ER." "The Office," a U.S. rendition of the quirky BBC hit that developed a cult following Stateside through airings on BBC America, passed muster in its 9:30 p.m. premiere behind a special 8:30-9:30 edition of "The Apprentice." "Apprentice," however, was off its usual game thanks to the lure of Fox's "Idol," with an average of 11.6 million viewers and 4.9 rating/13 share in the adults 18-49 demographic, according to preliminary estimates from Nielsen Media Research. "The Office" held on to virtually all of its "Apprentice" lead-in to finish out with 11.3 million viewers and 5.0/13 in the key demo. "Office" moves into its regular Tuesday 9:30 p.m. berth next week.

*admin edit: SPOILS FOR THE ORIGINAL

Quote from: picolas
the new gareth is pretty bad and the new tim is trying too hard to be cute

I kind of hate that there's a new gareth and a new tim...i wish they'd do something different entirely..new characters...i know they're not exactly the same characters as the first but the original was so original that the idea of copying it in even the slightest sense makes me a little queesy. I've never seen a last episode that moved me quite as much (especially for a comedy series) as The Office Special, i just don't see myself giving as much of a shit about Jim and Pam hooking up in the end as i did about Tim and Dawn...
But i guess if you forget about the original...i think the new show is pretty hilarious

The second episode of the American version is much better than the first episode.  I laughed more, though it still has that weird vibe that happens when a surprising gem gets remade after it is successful.

I have a theory that that vibe will in fact NEVER leave and you'll just have to laugh more angrily if you want to rage against it

I want to like the show so bad but I just can't.  One more episode where I laugh out loud only once and then have an urge to put my original DVDs on and I'll have to stop watching.  I realized last night that the reason why I laugh at any of it is because I keep picturing the British cast.  But if they're hinging the whole show on Steve Carell, they need to give him a reason that he's such a douche, like how David Brent was a failed entertainer who's constantly "on" in hopes of being discovered.  Carell's character comes off like he's just a shitty boss.  No sympathy.

The writers and the actors are able to mimic the characters and dynamics of the original well enough but it's just not the same experience... like sleeping with your girlfriend's sister.

Gervais/Merchant series Extras set to take America by storm

BBC Worldwide has secured its first ever British comedy co-production deal with the US cable channel HBO for the new Ricky Gervais/Stephen Merchant comedy series Extras.

Currently in production, Extras is the hotly anticipated new comedy series from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (creators of the Golden Globe-winning BBC comedy series The Office). The six-episode first season will debut on BBC TWO in the UK this summer, with the HBO debut to be announced soon.

"Ricky Gervais is one of the most original comic voices working today," noted Carolyn Strauss, President, HBO Entertainment. "HBO is extremely proud to join with the BBC in bringing his new show to America."

Jon Plowman, Head of Comedy Entertainment, BBC, added, "I am thrilled to be partnering with HBO, an American network renowned for the quality and originality of its programming. I'm confident that Ricky's new show will add to their superb lineup."

Ricky Gervais said: "It's an honour to be on the same channel that gave us The Sopranos and they made me an offer I couldn't refuse."

Extras stars Ricky Gervais as bitter, aspiring actor Andy Millman, who gives up his day job to pursue fame in the movies, only to find he just can't land the big parts. Each episode will have a different setting and feature cameos by top Hollywood stars, including Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Stiller, Kate Winslet and Patrick Stewart. The cast will also feature Stephen Merchant as Millman's agent.

Extras is written and directed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, produced by Charlie Hanson and executive produced by Jon Plowman.

Extras builds on the BBC's long standing relationship with HBO that has seen previous successful co-production partnerships which include the upcoming series "Rome", as well as the HBO Films presentations "Dirty War" and "The Gathering Storm."

For further information please contact Mary Collins, BBC Worldwide Communications, on +44 7769 670516 or at mary.collins@bbc.co.uk.

www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/commercial

Yay for no commericals or censoring, nay on that it will take 2 years for the dvd to come out (with a hefty price tag, I'm sure).

Quote from: Weak2ndActYay for no commericals or censoring, nay on that it will take 2 years for the dvd to come out (with a hefty price tag, I'm sure).

I'm sure it will be a half-hour show, so the DVDs won't be too expensive.  Ten episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm are about $40.

so hopefully this will be on late summer/early fall for us?

F waiting for HBO, this will be on the 'net the second it's done airing in England.

what do u use to download?

Consider me shocked, the show got picked up for another season.  I really need to sit down and watch those last four eps.

Same here.

I just saw 'The Alliance' and 'Basketball,' eps. 3 and 4.  They get better with every episode.  Rainn Wilson has really started developing Dwight into his own entity, which is nice.  The Basketball ep is hands down the best yet, and finally starts reaching the levels of hilarity and insanity of the original.  Not as tragic, but ridiculously funny.

(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.amazon.com%2Fimages%2FP%2FB0009VBTP0.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg&hash=a95ccb47d5dab809734668b6bf04edc31a9c0bd2)

August 16 2005

I can't wait to not buy that.

Quote from: RaviI can't wait to not buy that.

Totally.  I'll watch it for free, coz it's still better than most network comedies nowadays, but hell if I'm paying good money for it.

i saw the first series on these last two days and i liked it tons, even though it was hard to digest at first. i had to listen to all of it with headphones because these guys speak very rapidly. but it was  not because of the format (cos i think it'd be pointless if it wasn't made in fake-documentary fashion) - the humour was very sour. then it struck me that this wasn't about humour nor drama, it's this poignant observation on spacework that happens to be touching at times and has the stuff of universality like the good series (simpsons, frgreaks). i'm getting the second series as we speak, but so far , a  :bravo:  to ricky gervais.

it will be confusing to see which series people are talking about soon.

listen to gervais' podcast here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/rickygervais/0,16850,1652674,00.html

I'd just like to take this opportunity to point out that the American version has gotten really, really good this season.  It's becoming its own show.  I don't even think to compare it to the original anymore.  The one where they had the office awards ceremony at Chili's and Pam got so drunk that she was banned from the restaurant was fantastic.

They also finally realized that for the boss character to work, he couldn't just be a buffoon; you had to feel sorry for him as well.

yes, i'll second that as well.  i dont compare the two shows anymore at all and have since enjoyed the new version for being what it is.  the jim/pam relationship is a little more obvious in this one and that bugs me but atleast they've managed to resist temptation of getting them together which will be death for the show. 

i listened to the gervais podcast yesterday.  (you can subscribe to all 12 30 min episodes on iTunes).   it was pretty hilarious.  i cant believe that Karl Pilkington is actually that dumb, it seems more like a guy playing a character.

Quote from: cronopio on December 06, 2005, 09:50:05 AM
listen to gervais' podcast here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/rickygervais/0,16850,1652674,00.html

Incredible.  I layed on my couch listening to this giggling like a schoolgirl.

Quote from: SHAFTR on December 06, 2005, 03:04:59 PM
Incredible.  I layed on my couch listening to this giggling like a schoolgirl.

Yeah, but you always do that.

Quote from: Ravi on December 06, 2005, 05:50:42 PM

Quote from: SHAFTR on December 06, 2005, 03:04:59 PM
Incredible.  I layed on my couch listening to this giggling like a schoolgirl.

Yeah, but you always do that.

True, although normally I just do it in silence

I don't think this has been posted yet... Gervais is doing a series where he meets his heroes. In the can already is an hour long episode where he meets Larry David. I think its being broadcast soon after christmas.

That sounds like a wet dream.

I'm a bit late, but I laughed soooo hard at the podcast.

Quote from: ®edlum on December 06, 2005, 06:21:37 PM
I don't think this has been posted yet... Gervais is doing a series where he meets his heroes. In the can already is an hour long episode where he meets Larry David. I think its being broadcast soon after christmas.

what gamblour said. 


:shock:

Quote from: modage on December 06, 2005, 03:03:02 PM
 it was pretty hilarious.  i cant believe that Karl Pilkington is actually that dumb, it seems more like a guy playing a character.

yeah it was awesome. i love that attitude, making fun of complete idiots is the way to go. i want to be like gervais now, minus the laugh.

episode 2 of the podcast

http://www.guardian.co.uk/rickygervais/0,16850,1652674,00.html

Karl Pilkington is a revelation.

Quote from: cronopio on December 11, 2005, 10:03:56 PM
episode 2 of the podcast

http://www.guardian.co.uk/rickygervais/0,16850,1652674,00.html

not as debiliating as the first, but still knee-slapping good fun.

it's ok, you're british. you're allowed to hate him.

Quote from: Garam on December 17, 2005, 06:56:18 PMI'm starting to think some of the stuff he says is actually how he feels, and he's just funneling it through a fictional character.

go read a few Gervais interviews and you'll see this isn't true.

but the office really had a heart.  if we draw a kinda simpsons first season parallel, Gervais was Homer but there was a Bart who was the actual hero that you could root for and share his heartbreak with.  They didn't have that in any of the other mockumentaries.  And the Christmas special just made me feel so good, it was really uplifting and it was just good storytelling, aside from being funny.

Quote from: Garam on December 17, 2005, 07:51:49 PM
Anyway, there'll probably be a 'Gervais meets Christopher Guest' show, which would be good.

are u sure that wouldn't be a movie?

anyone heard the latest one yet?  It was good but it felt short.  I don't think I can ever get tired of Kal.  I like how Ricky and Steve egg him on but I don't like how Ricky kept on pointing out the obvious--like Kal is dumb/ crazy.

Last night's Office was my favorite one.  Dwight vomiting on the car, Steve Carrell's character telling the black co-worker that he's sure he's "had his fair of troubles, too."  i use to not care for this show but I still watched it cause it was after My Name is Earl.  But man it's pretty good sometimes.   anyone catch it last night?

yeah, i thought the puking was the best part.  the thing that is bugging me a little bit though is that it's called The Office and lately they're doing ANYTHING they can do to get them out of the office.  or make it some sort of event day, 'hey its bring in someone else' day.  hardly any episodes where its just a day at work focusing on the minutae.  always big comedy moments, 'the office gang goes to a restaurant!' 'goes to jims party!' 'goes to the hospital!'  i watch, and its good but it could be better.

This recent one was one of the best so far.

I have no problem with them leaving the Office all the time, it fits perfectly with Carell's character (who has completely left almost any trace of Gervais' character behind) and his problems with always wanting to shake things up.  He never wants a normal day in the office.

Quote from: ®edlum on December 06, 2005, 06:21:37 PM
I don't think this has been posted yet... Gervais is doing a series where he meets his heroes. In the can already is an hour long episode where he meets Larry David. I think its being broadcast soon after christmas.

some news on that HERE (http://www.rickygervais.com/larryricky.php)
(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi11.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fa175%2FLeven321%2Ftimeoutart.jpg&hash=9461759f3b0a8b0d960c53c4ec2d62d75a93953c)

oh glory of glories, oh heavenly testament to the eternal majesty of God's creation... HOLY MACARONI!

is that a fake tan on larry david?   :shock:

they just read Karl's new diary out loud in the latest podcast!

man, the American episodes are getting more and more obvious and contrived.

true dat.  well arent they past 12 episodes yet?  i guess there's a reason the british one had to end there.  only so many hilarious things you can get out of this situation.

Definitely but even now, it's funnier than the first season and funnier than I thought it ever would be, considering that it will never be the BBC series.

But I still say the weak link is Carell, or rather the direction they're moving his character.  He's bordering on scumbag and that's just not that funny. 

I think scumbag is okay, I don't think he gets to say that many funny things though.  I think the jim and pam storyline are getting pretty contrived.  It was really weird, it went from first season when Jim was this supercool laidback dude to this season when he was just a wimpy dorky dude.  The writing was inconsistent and every episode seemed to be trudging on the same tension.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4687784.stm

Gervais writing US Office episode

Ricky Gervais is to swap Slough for Scranton, Pennsylvania, as he has agreed to write another episode of The Office - but only for the US series.
Gervais and co-writer Stephen Merchant will pen an episode for the US remake of their BBC show, his spokesman said.

The comedy, starring Steve Carell in Gervais' manager role, is to return for a third US series after attracting an average of 10 million viewers.

Gervais recently wrote and appeared in an episode of The Simpsons.

US network NBC has commissioned another 22 episodes of The Office.

The American version re-locates the action from a dreary office block in Slough to an equally uninspiring working environment in Pennsylvania.

Gervais and Merchant have acted as executive producers on the remake, but have not previously written an episode.

The US version has not used the same scripts and storylines as the original.

FUCKING SWEET.  i'm very very interested to see how it turns out.  the shows are so different.  reminds me:

1. i saw 'jim' on leno last night.  he was pretty funny and personable. 
2. carrell's hair has totally normaled out from the initial awful hairstyle they had at the beginning of the show.

The past few episodes are getting funnier and funnier... Michel is out of control and Dwight is just hilarious. The one with the burned foot and the concussion was great, and the last one with the Carpet was also excellent. It's really filling the space of a good comedy. I havent watched My Name is Earl. Maybe I will...

whoa, finally just saw the last episode where everyone went to warehouse and couldn't unionize.  it was finally depressing and funny again!

The first podcast in series 2 (http://www.audible.com/adbl/entry/landing/ricky.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes) is up, but it's no longer free.  :yabbse-sad:

Gervais Added to Guinness Book of Records

British funnyman Ricky Gervais has been added to the Guinness Book of Records after scoring the world's most successful podcast. More than 500,000 fans a week have been downloading the Internet snippet and The Office creator is tremendously flattered. "We had our picture taken, I got a certificate and I put it on my wall, like a kid who brings home a picture. It's so great to be in it."

anybody reads Dwight's Blog? Its the funniest thing...

http://blogs.nbc.com/office/

i would never pay for listening the ricky gervais podcast. garam was right about the show's format getting boring after a while.  :ponder:
i don't know... i admire gervais' work, the office is one of the best teleseries i've seen and extras  was very decent, but as a personality i don't respect him that much.i think he said some stuff on the twelve podcasts that's equally stupid to karl's ramblings. i'm on the chris morris bandwagon now.

Quote from: cronopio on March 09, 2006, 08:34:13 PM
i would never pay for listening the ricky gervais podcast. garam was right wrong about the show's format getting boring after a while.

fixed.

THEY WROTE THINGS FOR KARL TO SAY?  what do you mean?  Like Karl's not real?

And I just got my Pilkington Chimpanzees baseball shirt in the mail today!   :yabbse-angry:

Quote from: Garam on March 28, 2006, 12:00:55 PM
The Gervais backlash hits stateside. The sooner you realise Gervais is a one-trick pony, the better.

i think with Extras alone he proved he wasnt a one-trick pony. unless you want to elaborate on this further.

i'm not sure what anyone here is talking about with the recycled office jokes. yes, he plays guitar and does crappy jokes and resembles the david brent character but thats the stuff gervais likes to play with. i think we should accept it as the Gervais Trademark of his characters: average people who crave attention and spotlight because they want to feel way above average.


oh yeah, and has anyone read Flanimals and More Flanimals? really good stuff.

but Cinephile, to simply transfer that character the Simpsons is not the same as a broad group of archetypes or characters he likes to play with. all he really did was just bring David Brent to the Simpsons. I guess it just comes down to, does one want Gervais to write an episode of the simpsons with their humor or with his? And someone else, I think on AICN, said it best: "Next week, Dave Chappelle comes on the show as the funny black guy." Is there anything original in that?

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 12:24:53 PM
Alright, Ricky Gervais, then.
1999 - Ricky Gervais replaces Ali G on the 11 o'clock show. He pretends to be bigoted and he talks about how women and ethnic minorities shouldn't get any rights. Hahah...wait a minute. That's not funny in the slightest.

2000 - Gervais gets his own talk show, which is basically an extention of his 11 o clock show bits. Many un-PC comments are made with the hope that because they're un-PC, somehow they'll be funny.

Sounds like Carlos Mencia

Quote from: squints on March 30, 2006, 12:29:11 PM
Sounds like Carlos Mencia

An offense like that is punishable by ban. Watch your tongue.

Maybe this should be moved to the Office thread?

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 12:32:01 PM
British comedy has so much more to offer than Ricky fucking Gervais.

True.  I don't understand what went wrong that Spaced never got any play in the US until the week that Shaun of the Dead came out.

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 12:32:01 PM
The Office was hailed as groundbreaking when it was anything but.

I don't know a hell of a lot about British TV but for American TV audiences, it kind of was groundbreaking.  We're used to the mockumentary, thanks to Christopher Guest, but on TV, with such deadpan humor?  It was sort of the next logical step after Seinfeld and Frasier (which Friends decided to take a few steps back from).  As for Gervais, you have to realize that 99.9% of us know Gervais from The Office, Extras and the podcast... that's it.  We never got The 11 O'Clock Show.  We're just now getting wind of the crop of comedians that have been around in the UK for the last 10 years (Gervais, Simon Pegg, Steve Coogan, Sacha Baron Cohen, etc.) so we're not sick of them yet.  But say what you will about Gervais, he's certainly more groundbreaking in comedy than much of the recent crop of American comedians (Dave Chappelle, David Cross and a couple of others excluded, of course).  Thank God you don't have Larry the Cable Guy or, for that matter,

Quote from: squints on March 30, 2006, 12:29:11 PM
Carlos Mencia

yeah, that says it about perfect.

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 04:33:51 PM
Is everyone in America sick of Chappelle?

No.

Now I think this is REALLY going to have to move to the Office thread...

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 04:33:51 PM
Larry Sanders

Larry Sanders had a good run on HBO over here but since it was 15 years ago and HBO was in the early stages of being a force in original television programming, only the people who knew about it knew about it.  I seem to recall it having a syndicated run on broadcast TV but it didn't last very long and they cut it down and put commercials on it.  In any case, it wasn't as big of a deal here as it should have been.  It was the Curb of the early 90s.

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 04:33:51 PM
Fair enough reply, but on the basis of Mr Show and the stand ups of both, I think Chappelle and Cross are more talented than Gervais.

Just to clarify, that's exactly what I said. 

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 04:33:51 PM
I haven't seen series 2 of Chappelle's show, but I've heard it descends into catchphrase humour. Even so, Chappelle's show doesn't think of itself as anything other than a few silly sketches. Gervais seems to think he's really breaking new ground.

I think you're imprinting Gervais' fans' opinion of him on Gervais himself.  Admittedly, I haven't seen, heard or read a lot of interviews with him but when he's being serious, he seems to be very humble and self-deprecating; he seems to keep up the persona that he's amazed that he's working at all.  I never watched The Office specifically because it was purportedly "groundbreaking," I watched because I heard it funny and different from most of the sitcom garbage that has come out in the last few years (I'm thinking of Friends in particular, as well as just about every sitcom CBS has had since All in the Family went off the air). 

And as for Chappelle, the "I'm Rick James, bitch" catchphrase was one episode and the fans caught on to it (and ran it into the ground).  It's not like "I'm Rick James, bitch" was in every episode or something.  Even Chappelle is tired of hearing it. 

Quote from: Garam on March 30, 2006, 04:33:51 PM
So in conclusion, I have more respect for Chappelle than Gervais, but this just may be the reversal situation. Is everyone in America sick of Chappelle?

No.  Why would you think that if I said Chappelle and Cross were exceptions?

I know it took me long enough, I've only seen bits and pieces of the Office here and there, but I finally watched all of Season 1, 2 and the Special (the BBC version).  With that in mind...

It's funny, but what's the big deal?  People are acting like it's the first exposure to dry humor ever... There were some funny parts, but most of the time (especially in the second season) it felt like they tried to ride that wave of humor into the ground.

Quote from: Walrus on April 06, 2006, 01:08:25 PM
It's funny, but what's the big deal?  People are acting like it's the first exposure to dry humor ever... There were some funny parts, but most of the time (especially in the second season) it felt like they tried to ride that wave of humor into the ground.

The Office more than awkward pauses and dry humor.  David Brent is a strangely egotistical and delusional character who thinks (or likes to think) that everyone likes him, but at best they tolerate him because he's an easy boss.  He's emotionally needy, but at the same time he can be abrasive and insensitive.  Watching the decline of this character is simultaneously funny, fascinating, and sad.

The other characters also have interesting stories.  Dawn's an aspiring illustrator who has taken the receptionist job as a way to earn some money and is dating a guy who doesn't seem to like her as much as Tim does.  Tim just kind of wound up at his job and is ambivalent about it.  Gareth is also kind of a needy guy who tries to make himself look better in others' eyes.  He's almost a less nice David Brent in the making.

If it was just a bunch of funny office stuff, it would not have resonated as it has with people.

watch the US version for further proof that the british version is a great show while the US is merely funny.

Gervais Slams UK Entertainment Industry

British funnyman Ricky Gervais has hit out at his country's TV comedies and dramas, insisting they are lackluster and tired. The outspoken The Office creator is underwhelmed by UK television and believes it is created by a small group of conservative writers who look across the Atlantic for inspiration. He says, "It's different in America. They're ambitious, they're good, they're funny. They do stand-up, and by the time they're 31 they've got their own sitcom because they're good. You don't see many 40-year-old hack writers in America. They get fired if they're no good. It's like natural selection." Of US dramas, Gervais adds, "The Sopranos, 24, CSI, The Wire, bang! We've got nothing like that. Nothing! It's such a big gap. Comparing our celebrities to America is like comparing Blackpool to Las Vegas. It's division two."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



I think I can see the smugness that Garam was talking about not too long ago concerning Gervais.  You don't see many 40-year-old hack writers in America???  Is he nuts?  And again, the British comedy that we've picked up on in the US (Gervais included) is much funnier than most of the sitcoms here these days.  I guess that we send the good stuff over there and keep the crap to ourselves and they're doing the same.  I really doubt that How I Met Your Mother plays in the UK. 

I have a feeling Gervais thinks that about American television for the same reason that a lot of people think that about European television... because he doesn't watch much of it.  He sees what other people (people who have filtered out the shit) show him.  With British television,he sees everything.

Someone send Gervais videotapes of The War at Home now!

Original Stars To Visit 'The Office'

The British stars of the original The Office show are set to visit the US version of the hit comedy to shoot cameo roles. Ben Silverman, who executive produces the American version of The Office for NBC, claims employees of Slough, England paper company Wernham Hogg could find themselves sharing an office with Scranton, Pennsylvania company Dunder Mifflin. Silverman tells the New York Post newspaper, "There's a lot of love between (the casts and crews) of the two versions of the show. Expect some cameos from the UK paper company." While Silverman refuses to name which stars will be appearing, he does say the show's creator Ricky Gervais, who played cringe-worthy boss David Brent in the UK version, won't be on the US comedy anytime soon. He says, "We're going to save the big man for now."

garam do you think he can do good drama?

'Office' work: 3 added to series

"The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" correspondent Ed Helms and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" alum Charles "Chip" Esten have joined NBC's "The Office" as recurring. Additionally, former "Boston Public" co-star Rashida Jones has landed a potential recurring role on the quirky comedy from Reveille and NBC Universal TV Studio. Helms and Jones will play employees at the Scranton, Pa., regional office of the Dunder Mifflin paper supply company where the series is set. Esten will play Josh Porter, the regional manager at another branch of Dunder Mifflin. Esten originated the character in a guest appearance in the "Valentine's Day" episode this past season.

So season three started back last week and it's two episodes in thus far. And it is good.

Best show of all time. I don't even give a fuck.

Quote from: Garam on October 12, 2006, 06:45:49 AM
Yeah, I recently watched about 12 of these. Really excellent. I remember when the news of a US remake came out, a lot of dull people complained that it will demolish the British subtleties blah blah, then it turns out to be a vast improvement on the original. For a start, the running time falling from 29 minutes to 21 means that a lot of the filler has been cut (count how many reaction shots there are in the entire UK series), leaving just great jokes and character development. Thankfully, there's hardly any of that dull unfunny pathos that award ceremony judges love so much. And Steve Carrell has better comic timing than Gervais.

If this stays consistent, I'll probably end up liking it more than Arrested Development and Curb.

It gets better everyday... thats the best part. I dont know if you say the latest episodes, but the end of Season 2 was excellent... and lasts weeks episode was unbelievable! (Dwight)

REMINDER: TONIGHT!

Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, creators of the British version of "The Office," penned this episode, in which Michael discovers that a new employee is an ex-con. Michael ultimately gets rattled when his staff begins equating the office with prison. Meanwhile, Andy (Ed Helms) receives tips on how to woo Pam from an unlikely source.

Even if I wasn't aware that they wrote it, I would have had my suspicions since it had their patented "political correctness about racism" humor.  But what was most impressive is that they didn't try to write an episode of the UK Office; they know the US characters very well.  The Jim/Pam/Andy subplot was so great and "Prison Mike" was Carell's finest moment on the show thus far. 

Black people that Michael tursts more than white.



Karen: "I've got one."

Michael: "Shoot."

Karen: "Jesus."

Michael: ".......... Apollo Creed."

Last night's episode was the first I've ever seen. I think I'll start watching this show...

This episode and the one that Dwight wants to take over Michaels position are the best this season...

I've always wondered how they go about writing the Office. And then! http://hollywoodhotline.latimes.com/watcher/2006/11/if_nbcs_comedy_.html

Quote from: I Love a Magician on December 05, 2006, 02:03:57 AM
I've always wondered how they go about writing the Office. And then! http://hollywoodhotline.latimes.com/watcher/2006/11/if_nbcs_comedy_.html

that's great. i'm not surprised cos there hasn't been one cast member on conan who was not flat out hilarious. they're the funniest real life cast working today.

Quote from: Garam on December 28, 2006, 12:28:16 PM
the Shandling one was really interesting. He made no attempt to hide his disdain for Gervais and his material and Gervais just came across as really confused and desperate. To be fair, Shandling was pretty rude, but good god, it was fun to watch.

the clip you linked just showed shandling being compared to that big toothed puppet. then i found another clip that says it's the highlights and goes for 10mins. is there a fuller version? the short one didn't hav any major ownings.

so far i can only find highlights but they're INCREDIBLE

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ViKt6tdCUyA&mode=related&search=

http://youtube.com/watch?v=8olrVQM08G0

the one i found was longer than all of those

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LljWm8umGIE&NR

i guess it's the full thing. someone just named it highlights.

you're right, i should've watched all the clips first.

i am intrigued by this interview. has shandling shown disdain for gervais before? at times it almost feels like they're both acting, it's hard to tell cos there's cuts.

Still want to see the whole thing, but based off those clips, my initial reaction is "Garry Shandling is a comic genius" and he just used Gervais' style against Gervais... the result is brilliant.

Quote from: RegularKarate on December 29, 2006, 02:17:24 PM
Still want to see the whole thing, but based off those clips, my initial reaction is "Garry Shandling is a comic genius" and he just used Gervais' style against Gervais... the result is brilliant.

You're totally right.  It seems obvious that it's not real disdain, but Shandling is so deadpan and unflappable that it becomes genuinely uncomfortable.

Have you seen it all? It's obvious that Shandling holds Gervais in low regard.

if you haven't torrented it, here's the complete interview (http://youtube.com/watch?v=pUgn86_T6SA) (in parts/starting with part 1/eff'd aspect ratio and quality).

the guy who posted this is also gradually posting the whole Larry Sanders Show.

the awkward bits seem less severe in context. it's not a bad interview, actually. the woody allen part was pretty interesting. i'm gonna look for torrents of shandling's sitcom from the 80s.

Quote from: Hedwig on January 04, 2007, 06:05:18 AM
i'm gonna look for torrents of shandling's sitcom from the 80s.

if you find one, link me. thx

Whedon Directing The Office Episode
Source: ComingSoon

Jenna Fischer, who plays Pam Beesly on NBC's hit comedy "The Office," has posted on her MySpace page about Joss Whedon directing an episode:

Joss Whedon in Da House!

So much has happened since my last blog.  We lost a Golden Globe, I met Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, and we've shot 2 more hilarious episodes of The Office...we are shooting one right now in fact.  So, starting next week...no more reruns!

I wanted to post a whole blog about the Golden Globes along with photos but I never got around to it.  For the last week and a half we've been shooting on different locations so I've had limited computer access.  Also, the camera battery on my digital camera died and I cannot find the charger which means I can't power it up to download any of the photos.  (I asked Lynn to buy us a new charger today.  Just another example of the type of things a personal assistant does for you.)  Hopefully I can post some pictures soon.  I have a great one of B.J. Novak at the Golden Globes ceremony typing on his Blackberry.  (Typical.) 

The Golden Globes were pretty cool...until the part where we lost.  It picked up again at the after party when Ben Affleck came over to our group and geeked out on the show.  He told me to quiz him to prove he was a true fan.  I thought, "Okay amazing and talented movie star Ben Affleck who is too cute for words...what is Dwight's middle name?"  And he said, "Um...I know it...wait...Kurt!"  Then he called over his wife – that would be Jennifer Garner – and she geeked out too.  Jennifer Garner is STUNNING by the way.

That was pretty much the highlight of the night.  Some other things I can tell you:  Patrick Dempsey is HOT, Reese Witherspoon is totally sexy and beautiful.  I didn't get very close to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie but I saw them from across the room and stared at them for about 5 minutes...that is no exaggeration.  I literally stared for 5 minutes...which is creepily longer than it sounds.

The night ended with me and B.J. vamping for the People photographers.  I actually spent most of the evening with B.J. and Angela.  We stood in line for a party where we saw everyone from Paris Hilton to P. Diddy.  It was a crazy night.  But truthfully I mostly wished that I was at home with my husband watching the Season Premiere of 24.  The Globes were fun but not as much fun as watching Jack Bauer murder a man with his mouth.

In officeland...our newest scripts are SO GOOD that I actually yelped during our latest script reading.  When I heard the plot of our next script I gasped!  I wish I could say more.  I think you will be very pleased.  There are lots of cringy, wonderful, funny moments.  And some very touching ones as well.

This week we are shooting with hot shot director Joss Whedon!  This has been especially exciting for me because I already knew Joss.  (He has known my husband for a long time.)  Joss has quickly become one of our favorite directors.  The crew loves him.  He's a huge fan of the show and therefore gets really into every detail of the show.  He watches us even when we are in the background of a scene and compliments our smallest of choices.  It's been a total dream.  I'm currently the background of a scene and I can see him hunched over the monitors watching a scene and giggling like a little girl.  I'm going to miss him. 

I feel like there are a bunch of things to announce.  Like the fact that our producers Greg Daniels and Kent Zbornak won the Producers Guild Award for producing our little show.  We got picked up for another season.  We will be back next year!  And, if I may do a little wifely bragging...my husband's movie SLiTHER was the 8th best reviewed movie of the year according to Rotten Tomatoes.  They compile all of the reviews from major publications and make a list of the Top 10 Movies of the Year and Slither was #8!  For a horror movie to make the Top 10 is pretty remarkable.  So, things are good in the Gunn/Fischer house.

Look for us at the Screen Actors Guild Awards Sunday night on TBS and TNT.  God, I hope we win.  I actually get a statue if we win.  That would be cool. 

(Posted from the desk of Pam Beesley)

This show gets funnier everyday... anybody seen the wedding episode?

This season just gets better and better with each episode.

I didn't like the early episodes of season 3, but the last 10 or so have been stellar. I think the Jim & Pam storyline is my fave. Curious to see what happens with Roy hunting Jim down after tonights episode.

Dwight better get Jims back!!

(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tvfodder.com%2Farchives%2Foffice_dwight.jpg&hash=15fb2a307d4ab90f4cf82cfbcec110ff31758646)

Dwight was probably his strangest in tonight's episode. Roy's freakout was sudden, but pretty realistic, I'd say.

i'm so angry that JJ Abrams has time to direct an episode of The Office but NOT AN EPISODE OF LOST!!!

I think it was well done... Roy was trying so hard to change for Pam and doing all the shit he didnt want to do... and suddenly he finds out everything started because of Jim... it will be interesting to see what happens next...

Michael and Dwight were both a little over the top... they are idiots, and Dwight is a geek, but they have showed before that they can be smart too. In this episode they seem like complete retards and I thought it was too much.

Am I a sucker for wanting more Jim & Pam romance stories? I mean, to the point I'm writing my own fan fiction about it? www.stefensawesomejamromanceshorts.com

just when I thought I'd stop watching the show altogether, some good drama goes down!  yay for pam.

After tonights finale, I bet Jim's turning that kitty kat inside out.

god damn great episode

swing low, sweet chariots

Quote
May 17, 2007 -- "THE Office" star Jenna Fischer won't be going back to Buddakan any time soon. The pretty brunette was celebrating her series being renewed Monday night with friends when she slipped on the restaurant's marble steps and fractured four bones in her back. A friend said she spent the night in St. Vincent's hospital and had to cancel an appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and a Harper's Bazaar shoot. Fischer's rep, Lewis Kay, said yesterday she's "doing much better and is resting at her hotel. Her husband [director James Gunn] flew in to be with her."

Quote from: squints on May 18, 2007, 02:12:48 AM

Quote
May 17, 2007 -- "THE Office" star Jenna Fischer won't be going back to Buddakan any time soon. The pretty brunette was celebrating her series being renewed Monday night with friends when she slipped on the restaurant's marble steps and fractured four bones in her back. A friend said she spent the night in St. Vincent's hospital and had to cancel an appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and a Harper's Bazaar shoot. Fischer's rep, Lewis Kay, said yesterday she's "doing much better and is resting at her hotel. Her husband [director James Gunn] flew in to be with her."

ah, that's sad, i like her.

Season 4 please have more Stanley.

I think he's my favorite character, or at least of the supporting ones.

Creed is excellent... and unlike others its one of those actors that I would really believe he is as creepy as his character. He is great.

I just saw the finale and was a little disappointed. I was expecting a bigger 'surprise', or something big like last year. It was very good, but also very predictable. Ryan's face at the end was priceless.

Rashida Jones has a new pilot, so if that goes well I guess its clear why they took this direction.

This was the funniest episode of the whole series. Great way to start the 4th season.

spoilers.

When Michael ran Meredith over with his car, I about died laughing.

Quote from: kal on May 18, 2007, 11:44:56 PM
Creed is excellent... and unlike others its one of those actors that I would really believe he is as creepy as his character. He is great.

He's seriously becoming my favorite character on the show. "82 on November 1st," I fucking lost it.  This is where the US show got it right.  Everyone in that office is a character; it's not just a select group of 7 or 8 and the rest of them are extras.  But the Jim/Pam thing is destined to end badly by the end of the season.  I can't see it being interesting otherwise.

Yeah, Creed's awesome.

"I've been a member of a number of cults, both as a follower and a leader. Being a follower is alot funner, but you make more money being a leader."

Quote from: Stefen on September 27, 2007, 09:58:55 PM
This was the funniest episode of the whole series.

No way... I definitely laughed a lot, but it's clearly taken a dip in quality already (not so much that I'm writing it off or anything.. still a great show).  The characters are becoming a little too predictable characatures of themselves and Michael Scott is turning into Homer Simpson.

It was the first show. I liked it alot. Alot more than I liked the first half of last seasons episodes.

There were alot of gags/plots that I thought were awesome. The bloody nipples, the dead cat, learning more about Creed, Jans mid-life crisis, Kevins PB & J suspicions. Maybe it was just that there was alot going on since it was an hour, but I laughed harder in this episode than I have in any of the other episodes. And I mean laugh, not just chuckle.

As for Michael, he's always been my LEAST favorite character, and to be honest, I've always found him kind of annoying, much like I do Homer Simpson (and the Simpsons in general)

Quote from: RegularKarate on September 28, 2007, 12:30:51 PM
Michael Scott is turning into Homer Simpson.

Yeah, that bothered me a little bit too.  It's a return to the Michael Scott of the first 2 seasons, where they were overreaching with the inappropriate stuff he did and I found myself cringing and shaking my head more than laughing.  Last season, I think Carell and the writers finally got that right mix of funny but uncomfortable but not so uncomfortable that you constantly ask yourself how he can still have a job.

Quote from: RegularKarate on September 28, 2007, 12:30:51 PM

Quote from: Stefen on September 27, 2007, 09:58:55 PM
This was the funniest episode of the whole series.

No way... I definitely laughed a lot, but it's clearly taken a dip in quality already (not so much that I'm writing it off or anything.. still a great show).  The characters are becoming a little too predictable characatures of themselves and Michael Scott is turning into Homer Simpson.

acreed.

i was thinking they went a little too far with Michael not caring at all about hitting someone and then Dwight torturing a cat - albe unintentionally.

would it be interesting if Creed and Dwight became enemies?
i wonder if 'Jam' will still mess with Dwight or be more focused on one another.

The hour long format hurts it.  I feel like there was a tight half hour show in there somewhere, but some plot points meandered. Still a lot of classic moments though, (ed helms' nipples, haha).

...and Michael was always homer simpson, now he's just turning into homer simpson after season 10

Quote from: bigideas on September 28, 2007, 04:14:06 PM
i was thinking they went a little too far with Michael not caring at all about hitting someone and then Dwight torturing a cat - albe unintentionally.

would it be interesting if Creed and Dwight became enemies?
i wonder if 'Jam' will still mess with Dwight or be more focused on one another.

That would never happen. It's impossible for Creed to have an enemy. I doubt he cares what people think of him. And he probably cares even less about anyone in the office.

Yeah, the hour long episodes just alter the pace of the show.

But, dude, Creed being 'young' was one of the funniest things ever.

haha, yeah, Creed is awesome. And Phyllis totally turning and telling Pam she can't assign clients based on who she's sleeping with "that week" was hilarious too.

I like the hourlong episodes. If it was something that I cared about being creative and great all the time, I would want them to tighten it up, but seeing as how I'm just trying to be entertained, the longer the better.

my time warner fake tivo this week has fucked up and only recorded the first minute of Heroes, The Office and (MOST OF ALL GODDAMNIT) 30Rock.  but it did record The Sarah Silverman Program all the way through.  is NBC implementing some evil system to not let fake tivo-ers tape their shows?  the shows it didnt record were all HD but my box is nowhere near full.  on the bright side a complaint just got me 3 months of free showtime, hello non-torrent'd Weeds!

this show has gotten so lukewarm and self-content.  I was watching one of my favorite episodes this morning, Basketball from season 1.  It had edge back then and was absurd in a totally unexpected way.  the past couple of episodes were totally unconvincing, which renders the fake documentary format useless, and its humor was so lukewarm 'cause all the characters became total shorthands, reacting in totally predictable ways.

Pete, I started to have those same complaints while watching season 3.  The characters never really transcended caricatures of themselves, especially Michael Scott. 

Also, there is only so much one can do with a show set in an office.  You can feel the writers struggling to come up with more retreats, parties, etc. for the characters to be a part of.  I got the first inklings of this when everyone left the office to watch Dwight and Michael duke it out in a dojo in season 2.

I think it's also because the writers never got depressed in an office the way ricky gervais did?

Quote from: pete on October 06, 2007, 04:57:00 PM
I think it's also because the writers never got depressed in an office the way ricky gervais did?

Buried somewhere in the US version is the idea that "its just work, so don't sweat it" but for the most part its not even really about what people feel towards their work and how it affects their lives.  The feel of the daily grind, of spinning ones wheels, not fulfilling ones dreams, etc. was integral to the UK version, which gave it a poignancy the US version doesn't have. 

The first half of episode 2 in season 4 alludes to real workplace issues such as jealousies over office relationships and fear of technology and loss of relevance, but the treatment ended up being superficial.  Hopefully they'll explore these themes more over the course of the season.

Bingo. I was thinking we're at the point where nothing of the original British Series is left, in terms of plot. British viewed the office as the ultimate deadend, where as American views it, even in the case of Ryan, as having mobility and the ability to move forward. The American addresses the fact that some people do want these jobs, but only to fulfill some post-collegiate, bullshitting lifestyle.

The American Office has a tenderness that the UK Office rarely achieved. For example, Michael showing up to Pam's gallery showing and buying her painting of the office building. The characters in Scranton are able to show their redeeming qualities; even secondary characters like Toby. In the Slough office, most didn't have any redeeming qualities (or it was just more realistic in not showing them); Gareth and others just served to contrast with Tim's sanity. In Scranton the audience can even sympathise with the nut-jobs, on occasion (for example, Michaels tape of him on a game show when he was a boy).

This (increasing) affection for the characters not only makes it enjoyable to watch but in the last episode, surprisingly Jim has found some contentment with his situation and Pam and doesn't yearn for the corporate life that Ryan has found.  This probably isn't as realistic as Tim's predicament in Slough but I don't see any use for despair in a long running sit-com like this. Nor do I want it.

I don't think its worth even comparing the two to be honest. Most fans of the original here shun the US series expecting it to be a direct transplant of the Slough branch to Scranton. Fortunately, it isn't. If the original series were now at 50+ episodes people would probably have got annoyed with it a long time ago. There's only so much cringing you can take. I still think the original is ground-breaking but I don't enjoy revisiting it that much.

Quote from: Redlum on October 07, 2007, 01:14:21 PM
The American Office has a tenderness that the UK Office rarely achieved. For example, Michael showing up to Pam's gallery showing and buying her painting of the office building. The characters in Scranton are able to show their redeeming qualities; even secondary characters like Toby. In the Slough office, most didn't have any redeeming qualities (or it was just more realistic in not showing them); Gareth and others just served to contrast with Tim's sanity. In Scranton the audience can even sympathise with the nut-jobs, on occasion (for example, Michaels tape of him on a game show when he was a boy).

I thought the game show tape was corny, but Michael visiting Pam at her gallery was a genuinely sweet moment in the show.  And in one episode we see Michael being a good salesman when he goes on a sales call.  I don't know why they make him real in those moments and then unrealistically idiotic in others, like having him about to jump off the roof into a bounce house.  His character is supposed to be annoying and needy and sometimes stupid, but it feels like Michael is headed towards being a total caricature, like Homer in the later episodes of The Simpsons.

especially with him driving a car into water fully knowing he's doing it just because the computer is telling him to.

Generally, I love the absurd moments of the show and enjoy juggling them with the sincere. But I agree, the lake incident went too far and was less funny because of it.

Quote from: raviHis character is supposed to be annoying and needy and sometimes stupid, but it feels like Michael is headed towards being a total caricature, like Homer in the later episodes of The Simpsons.

They definitely need to pull it back a bit. Hopefully they're still getting accustomed to the new running time.

I think the UK version had its own share of human moments, which were propelled by the relentless drab that set the show apart.  the emotions felt much more real and, by contrast, the absurd moments (and they went for some truly absurd moments with lightning fast crack timing that the American version couldn't keep up with - David Brent calling the Pakistani racist in the first episode for example), the heartbreaking moments, the madness (how they resolved the quiz night), and ultimately the sweet ending, became much more deserved because everything became that much more convincing and invested.  The American show had something going in that department, but became lazier as the season went on.  Everything became shorthand for sitcom conventions.  There were moments of drama and tenderness, but no more dramatic or tender than Friends.  And now with Jim and Pam, the show's assortment of caricatures, and lukewarm slapstick in full swing, it felt very much like Friends.  Which is too bad, 'cause the format had opened so many doors and possibilities.  Driving the car into the water could've been funny too, but the camera shouldn't've been inside the car (look at Sideways or every other Reno 911 episode) and the characters shouldn't've oversold their own disbelief.  They had Dwight as the straightman in that scenerio!

I'm not saying it has to be exactly like the British Office either, but right now it just feels like a subpar version of everything else that's already been done.  the producers have no balls, and the show has no aim.  and the problem is, it seems too self-satisfied to realize its mediocrity.  it's like the last season of Newsradio thinking itself the second season of Arrested Development.

its official... im bored... i dont understand why they changed the format to one hour... but it sucks.... its too long and unfunny

this blows

it's going back to half hour after next week

i thought this episode was on par with an average episode from season two, which is good.

Quote from: kal on October 12, 2007, 01:58:16 AM
its official... im bored... i dont understand why they changed the format to one hour... but it sucks.... its too long and unfunny

this blows

yeah, they should have stopped at the first 30 last night. That second part was way out there, kidnapping the pizza kid!?!?, what the heck was that? Well, I hope things get back on track when they stick to 30 minutes (or I guess it's actually what 24 minutes?).

I hate Dana just as much, if not MORE than ANYONE, but.........   

I think this season so far is better than any of the others. I was BORED by the start of the season last year.

Quote from: Stefen on October 12, 2007, 10:20:12 AM
I hate Dana just as much, if not MORE than ANYONE, but.........   

I think this season so far is better than any of the others. I was BORED by the start of the season last year.

Who the fuck is Dana?

I agree, I am enjoying this season. I can feel how stretched the shows are, but I don't mind too much. The first half of this episode was absolutely brilliant. Ryan is clearly written by someone with wonderful insight (he was speaking this week EXACTLY like someone I work with) and the whole dvd bouncing box, that was so weird of them to step in my brain and extract that.

haha what the fuck was I talking about?  :ponder:

Yeah, the Ryan desk bit was funny as shit.

My favorite episode yet.

The episode wasnt thaaat good, but Michaels commercial was really cool... I'm surprised he did something like that and not offensive for the company... but this could have been an hour-long episode, showing them filming and all that stuff... even more than other hour-long episodes with different themes.

NBC Developing The Office Spin-Off
Source: ComingSoon

TV Guide reports that NBC is developing an episode of comedy "The Office" that would introduce several new characters who would then be spun off into a new series.

The proposed "Office 2" is not expected to include any of the mother ship's core cast, as producers are already casting about for a "name" to headline the potential show.

Quote from: MacGuffin on October 30, 2007, 09:27:40 PM
NBC Developing The Office Spin-Off
Source: ComingSoon

TV Guide reports that NBC is developing an episode of comedy "The Office" that would introduce several new characters who would then be spun off into a new series.

The proposed "Office 2" is not expected to include any of the mother ship's core cast, as producers are already casting about for a "name" to headline the potential show.

Hey, that reminds me, it's time to kill myself!

i just hope its as good as Heroes: Origins!

Michael is really making this show unbearable to watch. It was bad enough when you thought to yourself "Oh, Michael!" but now I'm yelling at the TV telling him to kill himself. He sucks so bad.

sucks so good*

That's what she said.

Quote from: MacGuffin on November 17, 2007, 11:47:23 AM
That's what she said.

hah. but yeah, that's pretty much the whole thing. Michael is ruining stuff with his "that's what she said" crap. It was funny at first a couple seasons ago, but now it's just old.

Whoever said he's like the Homer Simpson if Thursday nights was right on.

I'm glad their making Daryl a more visible character. He's awesome. Him and Creed have been the best parts of this season. Oh, and also Ryan's new ego maniacal trip he's on.

i think you're just straight up wrong about michael. saying all he does is the "that's what she said" stuff is all he does is silly.

Quote from: I Love a Magician on November 18, 2007, 01:34:21 AM
i think you're just straight up wrong about michael. saying all he does is the "that's what she said" stuff is all he does is silly.

Michael just used to be socially awkward and that's what was funny. I mean, in season 1 where he "punks" Pam and tells her shes fired because she stole paper clips and then she starts crying, and then he doesn't know what to do next, that was HILARIOUS. Now he's just a dumbass. I mean, did you see that episode where he goes to spend time in the woods by himself? That was just dumb.

i'm starting to side with stephen and other like-minded posters on this. i still watch and enjoy the show, but michael's too over the top now. he's become a cartoon character. i think the main problem i have with this is that he doesn't seem to have to face serious consequence for his action; the kidnapping comes to mind. why was he not arrested? was that possible outcome even addressed?
i can't remember.
and i really don't know how he's kept his job for so long. he's not only a social fuck-up, but he just doesn't seem to do anything. each employee is a witness to his actions, especially ryan who just doesn't seem to be able to tolerate michael, so it's a wonder he hasn't been fired.

season 2 michael was great, cause you just felt sorry for him.

I've been of the opinion that this show has been gradually slipping for a while now - with only the slightest of moments equaling the adoration usually heaped upon it...

But not tonight.

Tonight's was gloriously awkward.

Paul Feig's name in the opening credits is always a good sign.

Quote from: john on April 10, 2008, 11:23:04 PM
Tonight's was gloriously awkward.

Paul Feig's name in the opening credits is always a good sign.

This was one of the best episodes ever, I know because it was sooooo tough to watch. Jesus, I was ready for a physical throw down, right in the middle. Intense, and so worth the wait.

Yeah, absolutely.

I know people who can't watch shows like this and Curb Your Enthusiasm because it makes them too uncomfortable. I can't really relate to that, but this one was just - perfectly - uncomfortable.

And Dwight's appearance, towards the end, was just great.

30R > The Michael Scott Idiotic Half Hour.

Excellent episode... great way to come back!

The best line of the new episode: "I've recently been watching 'The Wire'. I don't have any idea what they are talking about."

Just caught up on these. They're pretty good. The one where Michael goes to NY and Jim fucks up was a really great episode, it was nice to Halpert not be so smooth with everything, and Dwight gets a few great moments (pouring out the drink), and Ryan being an uuuuber douche. The dinner party was yeah really uncomfortable, the other one was forgettable.

This last one was pretty good. Jim's being set up as a new Michael or something. And Ryan has a coke problem? That's a little heavy.

I liked Toby abruptly running away and jumping the fence and the shot of all the phones ringing at the same time.  Other than that it wasn't a great episode.

I'm glad everyone is back watching this again. One of my favourite parts was Creeds incriminating indifference to the sexual predator on the Dunder Mifflin message boards. He's the perfect short burst character. If an episode seems to be floundering and Creed gets a few lines I think "Good old, Creed".

The Jan Levinson Gould, milfHunter, 10" Plasma episode was the most intensely uncomfortable episode of the show so far...or maybe the break has weakened my defenses.

One question, has it been explained what the situation with Michael and Jan is? One minute he's staying at Dwight's the next he's desperate and horny. What happened to his beloved condo?

Probably Jan is at the condo...

I loved this past episode. Michael and Dwight in NY was priceless. Ryan's friend, the Hobbit... and Dwight in general... also Ryan and his coke problem and crazy NY life... they are setting up something weird for the end of the season here... Toby, Jim, this was really excellent Office.

I really enjoyed the scene between Daryl and Michael about gangs.

Creed: "A lot of jazz cats are blind, but they can play piano like nobody's business. I'd like to put a piano in front of Pam and see what happens. [Pause] I'd also like to see her topless."

Quote from: SiliasRuby on May 02, 2008, 08:09:39 PM
I really enjoyed the scene between Daryl and Michael about gangs.

Haha, this scene was hilarious. The whole damn episode was really good.

I just started watching a couple weeks ago but have been rampaging through the DVDs because I am fucking addicted. The show mostly gets better and better as it goes. After about four days I'm already at the point of the merger in Season 3.

Last night's episode got so tense I thought Pam was seriously going to punch out Michael at one point or at least curse him out.

"Eye candy"...

Andy and Kevin were great. Jim was good, and I also felt sorry for Pam. But that ending makes you wonder what will happen in the finale... it should be something big maybe involving Jim-Pam (wedding, new career) or Ryan (drugs, career failure).

I'm pretty sure Jim will propose to Pam in the season finale, at the very least. Anyways, not a bad episode at all. It was nice to see Jim determined about something.

i watched the Office for a while before knowing Creed was actually Creed more or less. apparently this was alluded to in a scene that didn't make the aired version, but is in the deleted scenes. anywho:

http://www.pastemagazine.com/action/article/7375/news/music/the_offices_creed_bratton_returns_to_his_rock_n_roll_roots

(https://xixax.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pastemagazine.com%2Fimages%2Farticles%2F7375_image_1.jpg&hash=2ddd28437a2b7e66b73754cf31d02f0543c79053)

The Office's Creed Bratton returns to his rock 'n' roll roots
Writer: Christina Hansen
News, Published online on 06 May 2008
The Office's Creed Bratton has released a new self-titled album, alerting many fans of the actor's comedic work to his experience as a musician.

Bratton has been a regular fixture on The Office since the series' 2005 pilot. The actor often appeared in un-credited performances in the show's early days, perhaps because he has always played himself. Long before his cubicle days, though, Bratton was better known as a member of The Grass Roots.

The Grass Roots released their debut album, Where Were You When I Needed You, in 1966. The band members racked up one platinum album, two gold albums, 13 gold singles and almost 30 charting singles throughout their career, and have sold more than 20 millions records worldwide. The band disbanded in 1975, but member Rob Grill and a new roster of bandmates continue to perform under the band's name.

Bratton's latest solo album, his fourth, is described as a return to the musician's rock and roll roots. Bratton wrote seven of the album's 12 tracks, and also covers songs by Sloan-Barri and Bobby Darin. The album was recorded in Nashville with the aid of producer Jon Tiven, and is available now from several online music retailers.

Quote from: Chest Rockwell on May 10, 2008, 12:18:28 PM
I'm pretty sure Jim will propose to Pam in the season finale, at the very least. Anyways, not a bad episode at all. It was nice to see Jim determined about something.

OK so I was only half-right.

The finale was really strong. Awkward but not achingly so, and plenty of good moments.

It looked like the actress who plays Angela had put on a little weight, which makes me think the scene at the very end is setting up for a pregnancy plot when it starts to show.

Quote from: Chest Rockwell on May 17, 2008, 12:05:36 PM

Quote from: Chest Rockwell on May 10, 2008, 12:18:28 PM
I'm pretty sure Jim will propose to Pam in the season finale, at the very least. Anyways, not a bad episode at all. It was nice to see Jim determined about something.

OK so I was only half-right.

The finale was really strong. Awkward but not achingly so, and plenty of good moments.

It looked like the actress who plays Angela had put on a little weight, which makes me think the scene at the very end is setting up for a pregnancy plot when it starts to show.

She already had her baby; she was pregnant during filming.

Awesome finale. A really funny episode. Thought the whole Kevin being retarded was just going to be a throwaway joke, but I loved how they ran with it. The scene at the vending machine was incredible, the acting there was great when he just showed her his hand full of coins. One of the standalone funniest scenes in a while.

i thought the finale was great as well.
i thought the new gal was extremely funny. i loved it when she yoda'd with him. i'm wondering if him more or less rejecting her will make her pissed at him and basically get back to michael having a bad relationship with the HR next season.

interesting that the writers wrote two writer/actors out of the show - i'm guessing unless there is some twist for Toby and Ryan.

I liked this episode a lot, much much more than last week's. I don't like when Michael is needlessly mean (as he was to Pam and that high school student) because I think it's out of character. I think it works better when he just doesn't realize what he's saying because he has no filter or any self-awareness. I can totally understand his irrational hate for Toby, but being as awful as he was to Pam and that kid was just ridiculous.

The finale was so great though. They set up SO many interesting things for the next season that I'm really looking forward to watching play out. And Phyllis has become one of my favorite characters.

One of the best finales of all of the TV series these days.

Quote from: bigideas on May 18, 2008, 08:48:56 PM
interesting that the writers wrote two writer/actors out of the show - i'm guessing unless there is some twist for Toby and Ryan.

I'm thinking that with the extended next season and the spin-off they probably decided it'd make more sense to be full-time writers without having to spend time acting too.

Quote from: Sleepless on May 21, 2008, 09:13:00 PM

Quote from: bigideas on May 18, 2008, 08:48:56 PM
interesting that the writers wrote two writer/actors out of the show - i'm guessing unless there is some twist for Toby and Ryan.

I'm thinking that with the extended next season and the spin-off they probably decided it'd make more sense to be full-time writers without having to spend time acting too.

i found this on wiki.
is there any newer information on the spin-off?

Future
NBC ordered a fifth season consisting of 28 half-hour segments on April 10, 2008.[62] NBC also announced that Greg Daniels and the producers will be creating a spin-off series to air after NBC Super Bowl coverage in early 2009. NBC said the spin-off will take audiences on "another comic journey, complete with new faces and new locations, but with the same unique sense of humor and brand of quality from Daniels and his creative team. It's the next chapter of what viewers have come to know and love about 'The Office'".

Kevin being retarded is probably the funniest thing this series has offered. So hilarious. I liked the finale, but i'm kinda of tired of the show just mixing and matching couples.

For whatever reason, I thought Dwight/Angela at the end was Kevin and the new gal for a split second.

I just finished watching through all of Season 2 on DVD and so much great stuff ends up on the cutting room floor.

favorite deleted scene from season 2: creed playing guitar

http://xixax.com/index.php?topic=10259.0

Quote from: I Love a Magician on May 29, 2008, 02:23:30 AM
favorite deleted scene from season 2: creed playing guitar

him sleeping at the office 4 nights a week was another good deleted scene.

I don't know if there are any other Chicago Xixaxers, but on the 27th of August there will be a spec script reading for the Office if anybody's interested:

The Lakeshore Theater will be host to it's first spec script readings by two Chicago comedy writer and performers, Todd Edwards and Dan Telfer. The idea of these readings is to collect feedback from the audience via detailed comment cards, and generate interest within the writing industry. The first reading, by Edwards, will be at 7pm. There will be a brief break for the audience to fill out their cards and relax, and then Telfer's reading will begin promptly at 8pm. Both readings are free to the public, and food will be provided. There will also be a pay bar. Performers in the reading come from Second City, Blewt Productions, Chicago Underground Comedy, iO, ComedySportz and more.

They must have dropped a storyline, because I kept wondering, "Why does Meredith's face look like a burn victim?" Anyway, the premiere was okay.

Quote from: MacGuffin on September 27, 2008, 11:07:25 AM
They must have dropped a storyline, because I kept wondering, "Why does Meredith's face look like a burn victim?" Anyway, the premiere was okay.

I totally missed that.

I thought it was very unrealistic to have Ryan back for the company after his name and association with the company would have been all over the news.

Quote from: bigideas on September 27, 2008, 12:45:42 PM

I thought it was very unrealistic to have Ryan back for the company after his name and association with the company would have been all over the news.

Well, he was hired by Michael through the temp agency again, and not by corporate. There is good chance Michael could get in trouble for it or something so we'll see what happens.

Overall I think this was my favorite 1 hour episode. The ones before always seemed too long, and this one was just right. Michael was once again funny and not in a over-the-top retarded way, and I liked the whole summer idea to kinda show us what happened over the past few months. Poor Toby.

I think they could have drawn out the Holly-thinking-Kevin's-retarded thing a little longer. Seemed like a lot to smush into one episode, and then sort of gloss over.

i've never been a big fan, but i do like the show.  there seemed to be a lot going on this episode.  the continuity seemed a little wacky too, michaels goatee disappeared at the lunch table with Jim, was back the next scene etc. the scare with Mad Men guy was good, but dramatically there is nowhere but boringville to go with marriages and happiness.  thats the sign of an aging show.

Quote from: modage on September 27, 2008, 02:23:28 PM
but dramatically there is nowhere but boringville to go with marriages and happiness.  thats the sign of an aging show.

i did like how they set up what was going to be the inevitable drama (pam meeting a jim-esque guy at school) only to come back with the proposal scene. i agree though that this shouldn't last too much longer.

Hey, 30 Rock starts next week.

Quote from: Stefen on September 28, 2008, 03:40:44 AM
Hey, 30 Rock starts next week.

NO!!!!!!!!

Season Premiere October 30th 9:30/8:30c
Special Online Premiere October 23rd!

Yeah, one more month for 30 Rock... but Californication starts tonight! I already saw the premiere and its great!

Quote from: modage on September 28, 2008, 10:02:39 AM

Quote from: Stefen on September 28, 2008, 03:40:44 AM
Hey, 30 Rock starts next week.

NO!!!!!!!!

Season Premiere October 30th 9:30/8:30c
Special Online Premiere October 23rd!

THIS IS BULLSHIT!!!!!!!

Quote from: Stefen on September 28, 2008, 01:55:25 PM

Quote from: modage on September 28, 2008, 10:02:39 AM

Quote from: Stefen on September 28, 2008, 03:40:44 AM
Hey, 30 Rock starts next week.

NO!!!!!!!!

Season Premiere October 30th 9:30/8:30c
Special Online Premiere October 23rd!

THIS IS BULLSHIT!!!!!!!

Can we all just calm down?

Based on last season, thought that Amy Ryan would be a great addition, but this season's episodes have been flat.

Quote from: MacGuffin on October 13, 2008, 11:19:34 PM
Based on last season, thought that Amy Ryan would be a great addition, but this season's episodes have been flat.

Disagree... I think that it's stronger than last season.  Think about what a terrible season start we had last season with the fun-run... this season started out MUCH better.

The show already decided last season that it's going to drop in quality.  Michael and Dwight have become cartoon characters and they're not going to stop the annoying camera mugging.

This is a better bad season than last season.

Worst season ever.

Yeah, it's been slow. Hopefully it picks up. I still tune in every week.

Jack Black Attacks The Office's Super Bowl Ep!

Los Angeles (E! Online) – The Kung Fu Panda himself, Jack Black, is coming to the biggest ep ever of NBC's The Office. Yep, the Peacock just announced that Jack Black will guest star on the one-hour installment of The Office that's set to air after the Super Bowl on Feb. 1, 2009.

Will he play a bumbling paper salesman from another branch? Dwight Schrute's illegitimate half brother? Or something closer to home? Read on for the answer...

The episode, titled "Stress Relief," features Black in a familiar role: a big-deal Hollywood actor in a major motion picture. Per NBC, "In one plot of the special post-Super Bowl episode of The Office, some of the office workers try to secretly watch a bootlegged Hollywood movie during the workday. The movie stars Jack Black and other notable Hollywood actors."

Anybody saw the post-Super Bowl episode? The funniest for this season for sure, and very good overall.

This shows wack now.

Quote from: kal on February 02, 2009, 04:32:45 PM
Anybody saw the post-Super Bowl episode? The funniest for this season for sure, and very good overall.

Agreed. Dropped off towards the end, which is why I still think the show should stay to the half-hour format. You could have easily cut out the Jim/Pam parents and celeb cameos stuff.

Tonights episode was one of the best with *spoilers* Michael leaving with Pam. Stringer from 'the wire' was great in these past two episodes.

Yeah I think that if this story line with Michael starting a new business sticks and he doesn't come back it will be very good. They needed to shake things up a bit and this past episode was great.

i was going to say the same thing.

i thought it was in a lull there for a while, but the last few episodes have been very funny.

does this mean Ryan writes all the totally absurd stuff (since he was doing IB during this time)?

of course, when it was filmed and when it was written could be far apart.

Yeah, this storyline is a lot of fun.

This is the best stretch of episodes in a long time

Ryan, Pam, and Michael eating cheese puffs together brought a unique smile to my face.

awesome episode.

i love this show more than ever now.

Yeah, for a TV Show that started with what seemed like a bad idea (remaking a classic), it's holding up quite good. Very very nice stuff, it really works for me.

I'm really starting to like the new receptionist. She's pretty hilarious.

Quote from: Stefen on October 30, 2009, 02:14:47 PM
I'm really starting to like the new receptionist. She's pretty hilarious.

Damn hot too.

Unlike the UK version, this show has always been hit or miss, for every great episode there is a stupid one. It's been a while since a 40 minutes ep, I kinda like these better.

I thought Scott's Tots was a great idea.
I also loved Dwight's phone calls mimicking some of the others. I hope there are more imitations in the deleted scenes for the DVD release.

Michael finally screens his epic film masterpiece "Threat Level Midnight" for the office - but Holly reacts poorly

http://www.hulu.com/watch/217097/the-office-threat-level-midnight

I thought the Threat Level Midnight episode was one of the funniest of the series.

It's Official: James Spader Joins 'The Office' as New CEO
As reported by THR on June 24, the actor will take the job previously held by Kathy Bates, who will return to NBC's "Harry's Law."
Source: THR

It's official: NBC has announced that James Spader has joined the regular cast of The Office as its new CEO. The Emmy-winning actor will join the half-hour comedy as CEO Robert California of Sabre, the parent company of the Dunder Mifflin Paper Co.

Spader replaces Kathy Bates, who stars in another NBC series, Harry's Law. Spader last appeared in the seventh season finale of The Office as one of several notable actors vying for Michael Scott's regional manager position. Last month, THR reported that Spader was in talks to join the show as the new CEO.

"James will reprise his role as Robert California, this uber-salesman that has a power to convince and manipulate, like a high-class weirdo Jedi warrior," said Paul Lieberstein, an executive producer and series regular. "He'll have been hired over the summer as the new manager, but within hours, got himself promoted. Within days, he took over the company. James has an energy that is completely his own, and 'The Office' has no tools for dealing with this guy. We're thrilled he's joining our cast."

Spader won three Emmys as cutthroat lawyer Alan Shore on ABC's The Practice and spinoff Boston Legal, opposite William Shatner. He has previously appeared in sex, lies and videotape; Crash; and Secretary. The Office returns for Season 8 on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 9 pm.

This is great news. I'm actually excited for the next season, which I didn't think was going to be possible.

'The Office' to End After Season 9
The long-running comedy will be ending after the upcoming season.
Source: THR

NBC's The Office will end after its upcoming ninth season.

Executive producer Greg Daniels will return as showrunner for the final year -- taking over from Paul Lieberstein, who is prepping a potential spinoff. Daniels ran the show, still NBC's highest-rated scripted series, for its first five seasons.

"As we head into the homestretch, we have a lot of exciting things I've been wanting to do since season two," Daniel told reporters during a conference call Tuesday. "The end should be pretty cool."

Daniels, who was on-set during the call announcing the news, called it the "last chance" for the crew "to go out" the way he had envisioned, noting that "familiar faces [will be] coming back" as well as welcoming new cast members including Jake Lacy and Clark Duke for what might be an "emotional" ending for some.

"At some point you have a choice: to always tell the beginnings of stories and the middles or to allow a story to end, and I think endings can be very powerful and meaningful pieces of the story," said Daniels, who added that NBC Entertainment president Bob Greenblatt was supportive of the plan to end the series. "If we didn't let it end this year, I don't know if we would have been able to tell the endings for so many characters that I really want to know the endings for."

The end of The Office means a big turning point for NBC as it looks to revamp its scripted lineup. The network is betting big on freshman comedies, picking up seven to series and giving condensed orders for returning half-hours including Community and 30 Rock, the latter of which also will wrap after this season. (The Office and Parks and Recreation were the only comedies to receive 22-episode pickups.) "They may also be crying over lost advertising," Daniels joked, acknowledging the value The Office has to the network. "Hopefully they'll have other things that are working by the end of the year."

The final season will be different from recent seasons, Daniels said, in that it will focus on arcs rather than episodic comedy.

"The real heart of the show are these arcs that allow these characters to have ongoing stories. It's all going to be set up in the premiere," he told reporters. "There's so much to pay off from nine seasons, so many great characters, that my biggest concern is just tacking in these great ideas that the writing staff has on the walls and making sure we hit all of them or at least squeeze as many into the ending."

Daniels expressed hope that he would be able to keep big moments top secret, for the most part. In the era of the Internet and spoilers, he acknowledged that it might be impossible. "I would like to try to get back to the world where the world is surprised" by the story instead of reading about it three weeks before, he said.

Most of the main cast of characters will remain on the show, though some (B.J. Novak and Mindy Kaling) in diminished capacities. "There are so many storylines to follow now, so many endings to write for different characters, risky things we wouldn't normally do if we knew we were going for a long time," Daniels said. "Now that we have an end date, we can blow up things and take some chances. It's very freeing and creatively exciting for the audience."

Some of those chances include upcoming storylines like Nellie (Catherine Tate) holding a charity drive at the office and Dwight (Rainn Wilson) donating to the Taliban in retaliation. The identities of the documentary crew also will be a big part of season nine.

"All questions will be answered this year," said Daniels. "We'll see who's behind the documentary, and we'll meet some of them."

To bring it full circle, Daniels hopes that Ken Kwapis, who directed the pilot, will helm the final episode.

Does this mean that Steve Carell would return for a swan song as Michael Scott?

"We'll see," Daniels said of the idea to bring the actor back to the series that helped launch his career. "We have ideas for the ending, and obviously if he would participate, we would have a lot of good times. The idea will fly without him if he can't make it. He is pretty busy."

The news to end the series comes after Universal Television, one of the studios behind The Office, locked up former EP/current Parks & Rec showrunner Michael Schur in a new two-year overall deal that will see the Emmy winner develop additional projects for the studio.

Is anyone still watching this? The series finale is on tonight - should I tune in or not bother? Rumor is Steve Carrell might be making a cameo.

From what I've heard (since I haven't watched the last season and a half), it's gotten good again in the past few weeks, and I expect the finale will hit all the marks. I need to get caught back up before I can watch it, though, even if that means suffering through the rest of last season.

Yeah, I'd heard some of the original writers were back for the last half of the final season. I've decided I'm going to jump on Hulu to watch the last handful of episodes that are on there and then the finale. Not really bothered about being 100% caught up. I forget when it was I stopped watching to be honest. Probably around the time Michael left, because it was getting pretty tired by then anyway.