next epsiode is called "two weeks" so I'm guessing michael has to serve two weeks as notice. Is that the law in PA?

It's not a law (i.e. you can walk out of your job)....it's just generally considered good form to give 2 weeks, which is time to get your affairs in order and update the company on where you are with things, as to not leave them in a crunch.

This is of course assuming you want to leave your job on good terms and not burn bridges, etc.

... It's widely known that Amy Ryan is returning to the show. ....

I didn't know about it.:(
But then again, i also don't watch the previews for the upcoming week, if I can avoid it. I do this for most of the shows that I watch.

I don't get why this show is soooo popular, I find it very boring.

I don't get why this show is soooo popular, I find it very boring.
Do you currently work in an office or have you ever?

Do you currently work in an office or have you ever?

The poster is just a troll posting the something similar on other show threads so just ignore him/her.

I don't get why this show is soooo popular, I find it very boring.

Brilliant insight. You and skyehill should team up.

I think David Wallace does what anybody would do, put up with the crazy stuff of Scranton as long as they keep making their numbers.

Michael doesn't really report to Wallace. He has reported to Jan and Ryan and now Stringer... I mean "Charles". The only thing Wallace can do is point out to his VP that a region isn't doing very well and strongly recommend the "problem" be identified and rectified. When a middle manger gets fired, upper managers usually wait for a replacement to be hired and let them make the staff decisions.

Michael never got replaced probably because Jan was too busy visiting her sister in Scottsdale and Ryan was too busy falsifying sales, snorting coke and sleeping with women who look like models. In the meantime, the Scranton branch sales took off after absorbing the huge Stamford region allowing D-M to eliminate probably a dozen jobs (only Andy is left)! What company wouldn't be impressed with that, especially since Michael gets paid little more than a warehouse employee?

The real mystery is why they kept him on before that when Scranton was fourth out of five regions ("We're in the upper 80%!"). Remember that Dunder-Mifflin nearly put Michael on the street when they tried to close the Scranton branch and it was only by luck that he still has a job there. I think his near-brush with unemployment and his perceived feeling of success since that is what's motivating him now.

I love the way Andy Buckley plays David Wallace. He really acts like an executive who's trying his best to deal with the insecurities of a crazy manager but has just been worn down. Hiring a tough large guy no-nonsense VP like Charles Minor to keep Michael out of his hair made perfect sense.

I am just posting what I think, the show was forced upon after watching the super bowl, and after trying to watch a few episodes I just find very Unfunny. I don't get the hype.

I am just posting what I think, the show was forced upon after watching the super bowl, and after trying to watch a few episodes I just find very Unfunny. I don't get the hype.

This season has been pretty average to poor. Go back and watch Seasons 1-3.

This season has been pretty average to poor. Go back and watch Seasons 1-3.

I guess season 4 and 5 are not where to start then. :D

I am just posting what I think, the show was forced upon after watching the super bowl, and after trying to watch a few episodes I just find very Unfunny. I don't get the hype.
1. How were you forced to watch?

2. Commenting on shows that you don't like...seems to be a pattern for you.

Just tying to find some new shows since the ones I'm watching are coming to end for the season.

Still don't get this show, it's only funny when some stupid ridiculous situation happens like the FIRE DRILL, otherwise is pretty dull.

Just tying to find some new shows since the ones I'm watching are coming to end for the season.

Still don't get this show, it's only funny when some stupid ridiculous situation happens like the FIRE DRILL, otherwise is pretty dull.
...then don't watch. :rolleyes: Seems pretty simple to me. If you don't get it, you don't get it.

wife and I are HUGE fans of the show but last Thursday's show was EASILY

the worst episode EVER!! :(

Still don't get this show, it's only funny when some stupid ridiculous situation happens like the FIRE DRILL, otherwise is pretty dull.

I'm sensing that something like Two and a Half Men might be more up your alley then. Or The Three Stooges...

I guess season 4 and 5 are not where to start then. :D

If you don't understand the characters, you'll probably not get the humor. This show is all about the characters, not random people doing goofy things in goofy situations.

I guess season 4 and 5 are not where to start then. :D
That's right. As others have pointed out, The Office is almost totally driven by its characters. If you don't understand their quirks it's not very funny, which is made worse by how cringeworthy some of the humor is. It took me awhile to get in the swing of things but once I did I started to love the show. Nevertheless, it has to be said that The Office is not for all tastes.

Wow! Tough Audience. Some people just don't like to feel uncomfortable even though it does not involve themselves.

I think that is what separates the Office from all other shows and hope they keep it that way and for those that don't, then this show is not for you.

I love the idea of Michael quitting! Did you see the look on David Wallaces face, that tells me he does not want to lose him even though he is such a big PITA and will try to talk him out of it probably with some sort of concession. ( Holly ? )

So tonights show should be interesting, can't wait to see what happens! :D

^^ Awesome insight...I hope holly comes back!

I love the idea of Michael quitting! Did you see the look on David Wallaces face, that tells me he does not want to lose him even though he is such a big PITA and will try to talk him out of it probably with some sort of concession. ( Holly ? )

^^ Awesome insight...I hope holly comes back!
I agree with you guys that Holly's reappearance would be a big plus. I love Amy Ryan and have missed her tour de force performances as weird, squirrelly Holly.

I want to see if Jim - Mr. Informal Second-in-command, get made the new interim branch manager taking Michael's spot.

That could be good with how (Stringer?) the new regional manager views Jim after the tuxedo incident.

Also when Jim has taken over the branch for a day or two, he was very unpopular (like the birthday cake decision). It's possible that he could be an even worse manager than Michael. Where I work we've had employees drawn to the lure of big bonuses in management only to have them quietly go back to their original jobs after a few months of people threatening to quit.

Jim's character is interesting and a it is brave decision to make him, the sort-of-star-after-Michael, a person who is not really a very good worker. The wacko Dwight sells rings around him while Michael spends most of his days tormenting Dwight and flirting with Pam. The tux business sort of brought all of this to a head with the stern new boss. Let's hope they keep their relationship rocky.

Jim's character is interesting and a it is brave decision to make him, the sort-of-star-after-Michael, a person who is not really a very good worker. The wacko Dwight sells rings around him while Michael spends most of his days tormenting Dwight and flirting with Pam. The tux business sort of brought all of this to a head with the stern new boss. Let's hope they keep their relationship rocky.
I agree, it's fun to see smooth, charming Jim having to sweat for a change.

After all the lame pranks and smugness of Jim over the years it was great to have someone finally pointing out what an annoying dork he is. The guy is always mugging for the camera like everyone else is crazy and he is the only cool dude in the office. Maybe Stringer can push things so far that Jim's competence as a salesman will come into question while Dwight claims the plaudits.

The new regional manager is really bringing in some new dynamics to The Office. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the next few weeks. It was hard to believe Idris Elba in anything after his great performance in The Wire.

I agree with you guys that Holly's reappearance would be a big plus. I love Amy Ryan and have missed her tour de force performances as weird, squirrelly Holly.

Wallace may feel that Holly is the only person that can keep Michael sane and focused on the job. And he wants to keep the Scranton branch producing while every other branch is suffering because it makes him look good. Managerial motivations are often difficult to comprehend, but it often boils down to some guy wanting to save his ass any way possible. :p

We need more Creed. He should be the new Manager.

Maybe Stringer can push things so far that Jim's competence as a salesman will come into question while Dwight claims the plaudits.
The only time he claimed to put any effort as a salesman was when Ryan put him on probation.

He's an interesting character since it's impossible not to like him but we know he's really a slacker who's gotten some good breaks. Hmmm, maybe that's true of lots of people in the Scranton office except maybe Pam who, in every episode, appears to be not only doing her job but covering up that Michael isn't doing his job.

Good episode tonight.

I thought this was a good one. Reminded me of some of the appeal of the original British series.

The look on Pam's face as they were walking out of the parking lot was priceless. ( oh,oh, what did I just do! ). :D

I was surprised there was any loyalty left to Michael and never expected her to be the one to exhibit it. Dwight yes, but even he turned him down.

Could Jim be the next one out the door to join them?

And how bout Holly working for Michael?

I never saw this coming and with Ryan in next wks preview, will he also be working for the Michael Scott Paper Co.! :D

Great Stuff!

It was a good episode. Kevin is the new receptionist and Stanley is the productivity czar. The look on their faces was hysterical.

Loved Michael wiggling on the floor. I didn't expect Pam to quit and join Michael. Now Pam wants to be a saleman.

Also, this episode had the worst opening scene this season. It wasn't funny.

Andy's reaction to Michael asking him to join his paper co. startup was awesome...and then passing it on to Dwight while he sneaked out the door was priceless.

The look on Pam's face as they were walking out of the parking lot was priceless. ( oh,oh, what did I just do! ). :D

I was surprised there was any loyalty left to Michael and never expected her to be the one to exhibit it. Dwight yes, but even he turned him down.

Remember that Michael was the only one that showed up at Pam's Art Exhibit and was supportive, so she knows despite all his flaws, he supports her. Oscar showed up as well, but his man friend derided her art. I think it was when Michael asked the question along the lines of "Are you giving your best?" and the look on Pam's face set up the fact that she would walk. After her printer project and the fact that she completed it largely unassisted, she knows that the receptionist job isn't a challenge. She was also the only one who did the firewalk at the lake, so there's potential there.

Great ep, and the fact that Chuck chose the two least upfront guys to be in key position shows that he's inept.

Could Jim be the next one out the door to join them?

Michael has to come back. Eventually. Maybe sooner.

The look of the preview seems to indicate the old truism of "be careful what you wish for because you might get it". Stanley particularly looked as if he was beginning to re-evaluate the advantages of having someone like Michael as his boss.

There could be a mass exodus of the office over to Michael, not to enable him to succeed but to pressure New York to persuade him to return.

Great episode. The season started off pretty rocky, but I think it's got pretty consistent after (and not including) the Super Bowl episode.

The writing was really in top form on this one, full of great little touches. Pam muttering "oh no" as she got up to follow Michael, as if she wasn't able to stop herself. Toby of all people realizing that Michael's presence would be missed. Meredith calling Pam an attention whore for showing off the copier and Pam simply chiding her with "Meredith..." Jim hearing monster noises coming from Michael's computer and instantly, nonchalantly informing him that it's monster.com, not monsters.com. That kind of subtle humor that takes you a couple seconds to get and at the same time tells you a lot about the characters is what I love about this show.

The show's also getting a bit darker, which I like. Prince Family Paper's prerecorded farewell message was a great callback and some of the blackest humor this show's had in a while.

It's nice that the show has a strong driving direction again, with Michael quitting and starting his own company with Pam. Still, whenever the show has a shake-up like this, it never concludes quite satisfyingly. Either everything eventually returns to normal, making it feel too sitcommy, or the change sticks a bit and the show loses some of its original dynamic (and loses great characters like Jan and Roy). It's a very hard balance to pull off. I imagine Michael will inevitably return and Pam will probably become a new salesperson or something, but it'd be a nice surprise if they could pull off a season of Michael and Pam (and probably Ryan and Jan) at a competing company. Hell, I wouldn't mind if the show ended in a season or two with pretty much everyone having come to work at Michael Scott Paper.

Toby of all people realizing that Michael's presence would be missed.
Comparing him to an in-flight movie was a backhanded compliment though!

And the business part was good. OK, if you show up at work drunk with a bottle of Scotch, that would most likely get you escorted out the door. But starting your own competing business is definitely grounds for immediate termination, and only Michael Scott could have revealed this in the most pointless way.

The show's also getting a bit darker, which I like. Prince Family Paper's prerecorded farewell message was a great callback and some of the blackest humor this show's had in a while.
That was great as well as Michael talking to a guy coming in to interview for his job and finding out that there aren't jobs waiting out there for him.

Still, whenever the show has a shake-up like this, it never concludes quite satisfyingly. Either everything eventually returns to normal, making it feel too sitcommy, or the change sticks a bit and the show loses some of its original dynamic (and loses great characters like Jan and Roy).
Unfortunately that's just how American television works. Unless a show has a rating crisis or has a bunch of main characters leave, they let the show go in circles on the same course for as long as they can.

Great ep, and the fact that Chuck chose the two least upfront guys to be in key position shows that he's inept.

I disagree there. I think it was more that he doesn't think Kevin could do anything except answer a phone and that he wants to make Stanley do some actual work.

I disagree there. I think it was more that he doesn't think Kevin could do anything except answer a phone and that he wants to make Stanley do some actual work.
I have to disagree with part of your disagreement. The receptionist at any company should be a very competent and capable person. The receptionist is the "front window" to an organization. I think the writers are trying to show that Chuck really isn't as sharp as he first appeared to be.

The show's also getting a bit darker, which I like. Prince Family Paper's prerecorded farewell message was a great callback and some of the blackest humor this show's had in a while.

Was that the paper company Michael and Dwight went to spy on?

The writing was really in top form on this one, full of great little touches. Pam muttering "oh no" as she got up to follow Michael, as if she wasn't able to stop herself. Toby of all people realizing that Michael's presence would be missed. Meredith calling Pam an attention whore for showing off the copier and Pam simply chiding her with "Meredith..." Jim hearing monster noises coming from Michael's computer and instantly, nonchalantly informing him that it's monster.com, not monsters.com. That kind of subtle humor that takes you a couple seconds to get and at the same time tells you a lot about the characters is what I love about this show.


I complete agree. Just an amazing episode. Both the wife and I were amazed.

-R

Pam to Kevin about the copier:

OK, well... come back soon.

LOL!!

I really thought Michael would name his company "Papergreat". Missed opportunity!

Was that the paper company Michael and Dwight went to spy on?Yup. There was some ambiguity over what their fate was before--people argued that their customers would be too loyal, etc.--but this closes the door on that. Michael was directly responsible for torpedoing a long-running, friendly family business where he probably would have thrived had they still been around to hire him.

I am a little disappointed that they seem to already be making Charles too easy to hate. Stern and serious is one thing, but being totally incompetent in misreading Kevin and Stanley and threatening Michael with actual physical violence is a bit much. This has always been one of the show's weaker points--when they want you to dislike a character, they tend to go over the top. See Roy, Jan, Ryan previously. I wouldn't mind a few more shades of gray.

After this last ep I get the feeling that everyone will quit and David will beg Michael to come back and bring his team AND

Tell Michael that the new corporate rep is filed and that Holly is back at Scranton if Michael and his team come back.

After this last ep I get the feeling that everyone will quit and David will beg Michael to come back and bring his team AND

To further postulate, Michael says he will return if Holly is allowed to come back. She does, but either brings her boyfriend or he pulls strings to get a job in Scranton. Many grisly possibilities of inappropriate behavior by all concerned should follow.

Loved the "Monster.com" gag, and the look on Kevin's face at the thought of being the receptionist. That's the kind of subtle humor the show does best. Much better than the gross slapstick moments of Micheal crawling on the floor.

I have to disagree with part of your disagreement. The receptionist at any company should be a very competent and capable person. The receptionist is the "front window" to an organization. I think the writers are trying to show that Chuck really isn't as sharp as he first appeared to be.
I agree. I think that one of the main reasons Pam decided to join Michael was what a bad manager Chuck has turned out to be. His demonstration of bad judgment in the employees meeting made my head spin. Turning a dork like Kevin into the face of the office, its receptionist, and making the laziest guy alive, Stanley, the productivity kingpin was dumb, dumb, dumb. Chuck might have got some personal satisfaction from the move but it was clear to me at least that he hurt the operation with it.

I have no idea where the show is going from here but wherever it is, it’s bound to be interesting and even more so if they figure a way to bring back Holly. :)

I'm hoping Stringer will hire Avon Barksdale. "He was something of an authority figure during his previous employment."

Much better than the gross slapstick moments of Micheal crawling on the floor.I dunno, this is one case where the situation had been built up enough that this kind of physical comedy seemed merited. The combination of Michael getting unceremoniously thrown out after 15 years without getting to say good-bye, his finally realizing just what he had gotten into by quitting, his fear of Charles AND his general propensity for theatrics made Michael crawling around on the floor make perfect sense to me. It was a big, big moment for Michael and Steve Carrell sold his character's complete panic well enough for me to buy it. Compare this to stupid, time-filling slapstick in the past, like running away from Dwight to protect the Prince Paper client list (why not just tear it up?), or chasing after Meredith to drag her into AA (a sitcommy plotline in the first place).

His demonstration of bad judgment in the employees meeting made my head spin. Turning a dork like Kevin into the face of the office, its receptionist, and making the laziest guy alive, Stanley, the productivity kingpin was dumb, dumb, dumb.

I completely disagree.

Managers do things like that on purpose. If Stringer thinks that these two are not good at their jobs, he is giving them a challenge to see how they'll perform. I don't think he was doing it because they were the best people for the jobs. If Kevin and Stanley fail miserably at these two tasks, they'll probably be shown the door.

I agree. I think that one of the main reasons Pam decided to join Michael was what a bad manager Chuck has turned out to be. Partly that and the fact that she's had aspirations to do more for years. The fact that learning the new copier backwards and forwards left her feeling empty probably had a lot to do with it too.

Managers do things like that on purpose. If Stringer thinks that these two are not good at their jobs, he is giving them a challenge to see how they'll perform.

That's true, but generally upper managers don't like to make lower levels personnel decisions, especially at the best-performing region in the company. In real life a VP wouldn't care who's answering the phones -- they have more important things to worry about. He'd get a replacement for Michael hired and let them do the changes.

It seems like Stringer is handing out orders just out of frustration with this mess of an office he's walked into and the joke of a boss who was clearly responsible for it all.

You gotta love the goo-goo eyes Angela and Kelly are giving him during the meetings!

"I know the effect I have on women".

Lol, he's turning out to be a bigger dick of a manager than Ryan. I'm sure they planned it that way too.

He's not necessarily that much of a dick, really. He's just an extremely severe manager with little sense of humor.

He does have that effect on women. Why deny it?

He does have that effect on women. Why deny it?Only Kelly and Angela. Does that really count?:p

Well, he didn't say all women. Pam seems to be immune to Stringer's love vibes but they certainly exist.

they have more important things to worry about. He'd get a replacement for Michael hired and let them do the changes.

No. If your receptionist walks out, you assign somebody immediately to cover the phones until a proper replacement is hired. You don't just let the phone ring unanswered. The receptionist, although a low paying job, is one of your most imporatant positions. Somebody has to answer when clients call, and direct them to the right person. If your clients can't reach who they need to talk to, they take their business elsewhere. You don't leave that seat empty even for an hour.

2 great episodes last night. Loved the way Dwight was goading Jim into playing soccer with the boss when Jim upped the brown nosing by claiming to play soccer rather than just be a fan of watching it.

2 great episodes last night. Loved the way Dwight was goading Jim into playing soccer with the boss when Jim upped the brown nosing by claiming to play soccer rather than just be a fan of watching it.

Yup. Particularly the second episode. I like the direction they've taken the plot with the Michael Scott Paper Company. A much needed change from Michael being the boss at Dunder Mufflin. Some hilarious scenes at the pancake breakfast with Creed. Also some great Ryan scenes, particularly when Ryan was saying over the phone that Pam would be "a 6 in New York, but she's a 7 in Scranton" while she's sitting right there listening.

Best Creed line of the series....

When the others were saying: I never see him eat.....OR go to the bathroom, and Creed said "He does.....believe me, HE DOES". LOL!!!

The Country Road Showdown turned to Duet between Andy and Dwight was awesome. I was looking online to see if they filmed more of this song, but even the clip from the show has been removed from YouTube.

Yeah that Creed line was hilarious. My other favorite line was, "I wish I could make calls on my IPod. No, I know what an IPhone is, I don't want that." Just struck me as funny.

"I got egg in my Crocs" made me crack up. And "Awwww, da new boss doesn't find Jim adorable" :D

No. If your receptionist walks out, you assign somebody immediately to cover the phones until a proper replacement is hired.

When our receptionist quit suddenly, HR called up a temp agency who had a replacement over in fifteen minutes. Amazingly no vice presidents needed to be consulted.

My favorite exchange:

Vikrem - "I think Nano brought up some good points. What kind of a name is Nano, anyway?"

Pam - "It's another name for grandmother."

Vikrem- "Oh, sweet Jesus! Please drop me back at the telemarketing company.":D

Well it looks like the Michael Scott Paper Co. is about to takeoff. I see a buyout coming and all employees must be retained. :D

Is there anything Creed won't steal! :D

This show has to win an award for the presenting the worst possible working conditions on television. What could be worse than hearing people urinate into a toilet above your head all day while human waste flushes down an ABS pipe right next to your desk. That's exactly what your clients want to hear in the background when they call your business! :)

This show has to win an award for the presenting the worst possible working conditions on television. What could be worse than hearing people urinate into a toilet above your head all day while human waste flushes down an ABS pipe right next to your desk. That's exactly what your clients want to hear in the background when they call your business! :)
It could be worse, they could have no ceiling lights or ventilation. I think Milton's desk in the basement in the movie "Office Space" sums it up pretty nicely.

Yeah there seemed to be plenty of fresh air coming down from the bathroom considering you could hear everything people were saying in there through the vent in the ceiling. :p

My favorite exchange:

Vikrem - "I think Nano brought up some good points. What kind of a name is Nano, anyway?"

Pam - "It's another name for grandmother."

Vikrem- "Oh, sweet Jesus! Please drop me back at the telemarketing company.":D

Did he say "Nano"? Michael called her Nanna, which is another name for Grandma, and I thought Vikrem said "what kind of name is Nanna".

...Also some great Ryan scenes, particularly when Ryan was saying over the phone that Pam would be "a 6 in New York, but she's a 7 in Scranton" while she's sitting right there listening.

I LOL'd seeing Ryan's mom picking him up in the station wagon after work :)

Did he say "Nano"? Michael called her Nanna, which is another name for Grandma, and I thought Vikrem said "what kind of name is Nanna".


He probably said Nanna, but in his Indian accent, it sounded like "Nano" which was part of the gag.

He probably said Nanna, but in his Indian accent, it sounded like "Nano" which was part of the gag.

It did not sound like "nano" and it was not part of the gag. The gag was that Vikram actually thought her name was "Nanna," not something racist related to his accent.

Very good episode tonight. Started a little slow but got a lot better when the battle between Dwight and Michael started.

that was a fantastic episode. that was an awesome teacher vs student setup.

I wonder how many takes they did with the cheese balls?

I wonder how many takes they did with the cheese balls?I was thinking that myself--particularly the three-way toss, or the shot with Pam yawning and getting one stuck in her hair. Kinda added to my enjoyment in a meta sort of way.

Also, I am so buying one of those giant tubs of Utz cheese balls next time I'm in Target.

Anyway, not quite as awesome as last week's double-header, but still pretty great. The Michael Scott Paper Company storyline has really reenergized the show. I assume you guys have seen this: http://www.michaelscottpapercompany.com/index.shtml

32 (or was it 37?) cheeseballs is pretty impressive.

I need to go buy a big tub to see if I can beat that.

I assume you guys have seen this: http://www.michaelscottpapercompany.com/index.shtml
One thing I know about photography. When taking portraits you should not have your subject leaning back so you can see up their nostrils! :D

Really funny episode. I like shows where you see the other side of Michael. As much as he is a total doof as a manager, he's a darn good salesman. Love that he left his sell phone on to taunt Dwight during the sales call.

I should start using his color coding system. "Orange means: orange you glad you didn't say that".

Green means "go ahead and don't mention it."

better than last week's ep for sure but the last month has been a nosedive overall!

Green means "go ahead and don't mention it."

LOL...that was my favorite one.

"How is your homosexual sophomore?"

better than last week's ep for sure but the last month has been a nosedive overall!
I have no idea what you're talking about.

This month has been fantastic! Michael giving his two week's notice, showing up drunk, pasting his company's letterhead to D/M paper, crawling around on the floor to avoid Stringer, Jim trying to impress Stringer, Kevin attempting to answer the phones, Michael's company headquarters under the toilets, finding former D/M executive Ryan working at a bowling alley, Duh-wight passing company information to Michael then switching sides, Dwight becoming buddy's with Andy, Michael's pancake sales event, Michael stealing a D/M client...

Damn... what did I miss? The last three or four episodes were outstanding writing. When Michael started his own paper business, I wouldn't have guessed it would be this funny or that they could keep it going for more than a couple of episodes (like Dwight working for Staples).

I have no idea what you're talking about.

This month has been fantastic! Michael giving his two week's notice, showing up drunk, pasting his company's letterhead to D/M paper, crawling around on the floor to avoid Stringer, Jim trying to impress Stringer, Kevin attempting to answer the phones, Michael's company headquarters under the toilets, finding former D/M executive Ryan working at a bowling alley, Duh-wight passing company information to Michael then switching sides, Dwight becoming buddy's with Andy, Michael's pancake sales event, Michael stealing a D/M client...
I agree that the episodes beginning with Michael's resignation have been outstanding. This week's show particularly was funny and sly.

I assume you guys have seen this: http://www.michaelscottpapercompany.com/index.shtmlUnfortunately, the world is filled with pig slaughtering beet farmers-who don't value loyalty and are only concerned with bottom lines and profit margins. So for those of you who have experienced the curt bedside manner of Dwight Schrute, a better, warmer, cheaper world of paper awaits you at the Michael Scott Paper Company.

Love it.

(long post demonstrating unparalleled correctness of opinion)Yeah, what he said. The Michael Scott Paper Company storyline has re-energized the show. It has an actual direction for the first time since Jim and Pam got together. Hopefully they can keep it going for a while before inevitably returning to status quo--or better yet, surprising us and never returning to status quo.

I kinda hope MSPC eventually brings in Jan to do corporate things that Michael will undoubtedly be unable to handle. Mostly because I like looking at Jan, I admit.

I don't know why, but I feel like the inevitable conclusion to the Michael Scott Paper company is that the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflen goes out of business, and Dunder Mifflen buys out MSPC, and appoints Michael to be Branch Manager of the new branch of Dunder Mifflen in Scranton. Then we're all back to status quo.

I guess we can say goodbye to the Michael Scott Paper Company.

Another fantastic episode tonight. Jim was great. Loved the ass-kissing sound that Jim made about Dwight.

Dwight was awesome, especially about the bees.

I think the ass-kissing noise was for the way the new boss was acting towards David, not about Dwight.

Great episode tonight!

my balls are in your court

thank god they kept the new receptionist

Another great episode, Michael showed that when it comes down to it, he can run with the "best" of them. He actually knew more then he lead on when going in (I dont beleive they discussed the shareholders meeting, ect). Loved the way Jim intercepted Dwight for the save, knowing he was already on thin ice. Hopefully we will see more of the "new" MS rather than the old MS.

I am sad to see Stringer go, but at least this was more cordial then the 1st time he left a show ;).

LOL @ the Korean women getting in the bus

Dwight further revealed himself to be a classic (to me) toadie when he was ready to run to Stringer with the news about the MS Paper Co. Granted some might call it company loyalty but I don't know ... I wonder if this put Dwight in the same situation he was in when he went to Jan to subvert Michael a couple of seasons ago, and he ended up doing Michael's laundry.

With Michael Schur's involvement on Parks and Recreation, I hope we're still going to be seeing Mose. I know Schur has been a writer on The Office, but I don't know what his prior background is. I really enjoy someone who can get laughs with physical mannerisms. I'm not putting Mose at this level, but Michael Richards did it as Kramer, even aside from the pratfalls. And for us oldtimers, Art Carney did it as Norton on the Honeymooners. Mose is a character that has to be used sparingly, but I love it when he's on.

"Well, well, well...look at the turn...tables...."

"Well, well, well...look at the turn...tables...."

Well, well, well. How the turn tables.

That was greatness!

Well, well, well. How the turn tables.

It's been a while since a one-liner has made me laugh so hard that I had to pause the show. It reminded me of a classic MST3K one-liner: "Well, well, well. The cat's on the other foot now, isn't it?"

I also liked the accountant crunching the numbers a second time. "Crunch". And since I liked anything that's business related, the explanation of variable costs and how he would start losing money as he expanded was interesting. So it wasn't "corporate greed" after all!

And it was spooky to see Michael Scott nail Wallace to the wall about why he really wanted to buy him out. I haven't heard him act this competent for so long, probably not since The Client in the second season.

it's also like Austin Power's "allow myself to introduce.... myself" :)

The whole scene at the negotiating table was an instant classic. One of the best scenes in the history of this show.

And it was spooky to see Michael Scott nail Wallace to the wall about why he really wanted to buy him out. I haven't heard him act this competent for so long, probably not since The Client in the second season.
I really liked this part as well. Although, Michael has been acting like that for the last several episodes. Like last week, when he stole away Dwight's client; he did it with facts and salesmanship. His flashes of genius show why his branch is the most profitable in Dunder Mifflen, even though he can't explain it. It shows why he got promoted to manager in the first place, and why he was a strong candidate for Jan's job.

I tend to like the show best when they show Michael as the idiot savant, because that is a better character synopsis than him just being all around dumb. A guy who can successfully negotiate a buy-out, but still says things like "look at how the turn tables..." is classic comedy gold!

Well, well, well. How the turn tables.

That was greatness!

Ah yes, I knew I was close. That line had me laughing so hard. This was just an excellent episode.

Another favorite: although the Korean women getting in the van was a running gag throughout, the one that made me lol was when they were in a quiet state of depression after speaking to the accountant. They're riding in the van, and it looks like Michael is stopping at a red light, and without saying a word, Pam opens up the door to let one in. So classic and unexpected.

Also loved how Jim was able to get a dig in of his own to Stringer at the negotiating table.

I really liked this part as well. Although, Michael has been acting like that for the last several episodes. Like last week, when he stole away Dwight's client; he did it with facts and salesmanship.
That's a good point and it's consistent with him being a great salesman but a terrible everything-else.

His flashes of genius show why his branch is the most profitable in Dunder Mifflen, even though he can't explain it. It shows why he got promoted to manager in the first place, and why he was a strong candidate for Jan's job.
Jan's lawsuit showed that he was not a serious candidate for Jan's job. In "The Deposition" episode I really liked the pained expression on Wallace's face when they read back his testimony of him trying to avoid admitting that Michael wasn't a serious candidate for the job. He finally relented and said "He's a nice guy. What can I say?"

I like how they made Wallace's character be a 100% believable business guy who has to put up with the kooky characters.

"Time to make the donuts (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwfrBbNo5Jg)."

Yah, but that begs the question- Why would Michael want to come back to a place where he was treated so badly to begin with? For the last 4yrs of the series he would continuously complain about how underappreciated he was (as I recall, that's why he quit), and now he just ends up back in the same position with the same exact boss, and can now be treated like crap all over again. The least he should have done was asked for a better position.

Yah, but that begs the question- Why would Michael want to come back to a place where he was treated so badly to begin with?
Because Michael's mood continually swings from hopeless pessimism (something bad just happened) to childish optimism (something good just happened). He just bagged more than his yearly salary in three weeks and nailed that jerk Stringer to the wall while proving to Dunder/Mifflin that the company needs him. To him, that's worth more than anything in the world especially since he has nothing going in the romance department.

The least he should have done was asked for a better position.
Or a better salary! Instead he demanded jobs for Ryan and Pam because their loyalty and (stupid) belief in him is all he needed during the past three weeks.

It does make sense that they'd hire another sales person. The only reason Scranton is the most profitable branch is because they absorbed the profitable Stamford branch and got rid of all but one employee thanks to Michael's "managerial skills". The sales force is probably handling double the accounts now.

Yah, but that begs the question- Why would Michael want to come back to a place where he was treated so badly to begin with? For the last 4yrs of the series he would continuously complain about how underappreciated he was (as I recall, that's why he quit), and now he just ends up back in the same position with the same exact boss, and can now be treated like crap all over again. The least he should have done was asked for a better position.

Scowl makes good points in response to your message, but in your defense...as I watched the episode, I expected Michael to demand Toby and Holly switch locations so he can Holly back. That would be a huge reason why he'd want to come back to a place where he was so badly treated. :D

Yes, great episode. Maybe the best one ever. Loved Dwight's story about catching the beet bandit ("Mose in socks. Case closed."). The way Jim played him was brilliant.

-R

That was a sweet ride! No, not on the Korean Church Bus, but the whole journey from Charles coming on to Michael treating him the same way he was treated when he left. And people doubted it, oh ye of little faith.

does it bother anyone else that Michael alternates between being a dolt (a child, in Pam's words) and financially clueless with being incredibly shrewd and insightful ("I don't need to outlast Dunder, I just need to outlast YOU") at the convenience of the plot? We all know people who are really dumb at most things but really smart about certain things, but Michael is like simultaneously dumb and smart about the same thing.

does it bother anyone else that Michael alternates between being a dolt (a child, in Pam's words) and financially clueless with being incredibly shrewd and insightful ("I don't need to outlast Dunder, I just need to outlast YOU") at the convenience of the plot? We all know people who are really dumb at most things but really smart about certain things, but Michael is like simultaneously dumb and smart about the same thing.
That's what I was talking about earlier, and no it doesn't bother me, its actually what I like best about Michael.

i guess you could think of Michael's brain as a muscle he never uses :)

i wonder if they're going to change the Dwight/Michael dynamic. Dwight is no longer the sycophant he once was, which might result in a less likeable/funny character. his scenes with Andy showed promise though.

This week''s show was one of the best episodes ever! Michael was shown at his weird best. He is clumsy and clueless, and yet somehow competent at crunch time. Michael's best trait, though, may be his bone loyalty. He showed it in this week's show by not even bargaining for a raise for himself but instead making sure that Dunder-Mifflin rehired both Pam and Ryan. This was funny but sweet stuff! Nevertheless, meanspirited fellow that I am, I also enjoyed seeing Charles sweat for a change.

I used to think I was a Dwight guy, but ever since the ep where Ryan takes Michael to speak at his Business Class for the letter grade bump, "I'd be foolish not to...riiight?", how he handled Ryan's perceived insubordination, "A good boss doesn't fire people, he hires them", and the fact that he encouraged Pam's art, I've really come to embrace and root for Michael. Michael really does value people over the company. Funny how the two employees key to that ep ended up at the Michael Scott Paper Company.

Well I saw this coming from my post a couple of weeks ago but I would have liked to have seen it last a little longer.

Anyhow, it was a great episode, one of the best and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

And I agree, it's good to see Michael back to his old self. he knocked it out of the park at the negotiation table to the surprise of everyone when we all thought he would end up screwing it up.

Great Writing the way they sucked us in only to have Michael lower the hammer!:D

I used to think I was a Dwight guy, but ever since the ep where Ryan takes Michael to speak at his Business Class for the letter grade bump, "I'd be foolish not to...riiight?", how he handled Ryan's perceived insubordination, "A good boss doesn't fire people, he hires them", and the fact that he encouraged Pam's art, I've really come to embrace and root for Michael. Michael really does value people over the company. Funny how the two employees key to that ep ended up at the Michael Scott Paper Company."It's not the horniness, it's the loneliness...." :p Michael

I liked this episode, but I'm disappointed that we're already back to status quo. I feel there was a lot more mileage to wring out of a start-up paper company. I bet they could've stretched the MSPC plotline over at least half the season, which would've been far better than the "Pam at art school" waste of a plotline we got at the beginning of the season.

I guess what I'd like them to do is stop scheduling storylines around guest stars with such limited stints. I could've used a whole season of Holly and Charles Miner.

does it bother anyone else that Michael alternates between being a dolt (a child, in Pam's words) and financially clueless with being incredibly shrewd and insightful ("I don't need to outlast Dunder, I just need to outlast YOU") at the convenience of the plot? We all know people who are really dumb at most things but really smart about certain things, but Michael is like simultaneously dumb and smart about the same thing.

A lot of classic sitcom characters are contradictions like this. Archie Bunker was a dumb bigot who occasionally surprised everyone with his generosity when it made him look good. Homer Simpson is the definition of stupid and lazy yet he can be clever and have superhuman motivation in certain conditions. Kramer was not corporate material but regularly brewed up brilliant plans to make a few bucks. I think these characters are secretly smart but most of the time don't feel like they should need to use their brains until they're in a bind or see an opportunity.

I liked this episode, but I'm disappointed that we're already back to status quo. I feel there was a lot more mileage to wring out of a start-up paper company. I bet they could've stretched the MSPC plotline over at least half the season, which would've been far better than the "Pam at art school" waste of a plotline we got at the beginning of the season.

I guess what I'd like them to do is stop scheduling storylines around guest stars with such limited stints. I could've used a whole season of Holly and Charles Miner.

Yes I agree with this completely. I would have liked to see this drag on as I've loved every minute of this story arch. I hope we see Stringer Bell again in the future(he's still with the company right?).

No one else was rubbed the wrong way by Jim's actions? To me he crossed the line a bit in his actions and really, should be fired if anyone figured out his role in this.

He's never crossed that line before I don't think.

No one else was rubbed the wrong way by Jim's actions? To me he crossed the line a bit in his actions and really, should be fired if anyone figured out his role in this.I see your point, but it wouldn't really be in character for Jim to go stooge to corporate at the expense of his friends, let alone his fiance. He did withhold vital info, but frankly it was nothing that people on Wallace and Miner's level shouldn't have been able to figure out.

I'm a little unclear on whether Miner was fired as part of the deal or merely is not allowed to show up at the Scranton branch as much (if at all).

It's amusing how invested people are in the plot of a sitcom. Now it is a good sitcom, but a sitcom none the less.

It's because people are invested in the characters that we get this "Friends"-like stuff.

What's my point, you might ask: it's simple. IMHO, it doesn't matter how "long" the MSPC lasted. It doesn't matter whether Michael was "out of character." It's a sitcom, heavy on the COM (Comedy). As long as it is funny, I'm happy.

What's interesting to me about Michael is that while he is one of the funniest characters in the show, at times he has been the most "unfunny," like times when he is too "mean" that laughs are not invoked in the audience. Fascinating that a character can be the best and worst of the show, at different times. You don't usually see it on other shows.

Thank you, pappy. I've tried to explain that to these people, but it's like talking to a brick wall. People put way too much stock in sitcoms.

It's a sitcom, heavy on the COM (Comedy). As long as it is funny, I'm happy.Sure, I can agree with that as a general rule. I myself don't get the fans who wish this show were a written like a romance novel. But even in light of that: IMHO, it doesn't matter how "long" the MSPC lasted.I wanted MSPC to go longer specifically because I think they could've gotten a lot more laughs out of it. It's the freshest storyline they've had on the show in a long while--miles more interesting AND funnier than any of the love-centric stuff they've been doing for most of this season. Does wanting more of a good thing make me too "invested"?
It doesn't matter whether Michael was "out of character."I'd argue that it matters quite a bit on a character-comedy-based sitcom, actually.

Don't get me wrong: the Office is indeed a sitcom, but one with much better-crafted characters and a lot more genuine emotion than what we would've seen out of older shows. Sure, a lot of fans go way overboard (such as anyone who uses the term "JAM"), but I don't think there's anything wrong with getting a bit invested in good writing and good characters.

What's interesting to me about Michael is that while he is one of the funniest characters in the show, at times he has been the most "unfunny," like times when he is too "mean" that laughs are not invoked in the audience. Fascinating that a character can be the best and worst of the show, at different times. You don't usually see it on other shows.
No character is a better example of this than Archie Bunker.

Very funny episode tonight. The scene with Meredith wearing too revealing clothing was hysterical. Dwight using urine as invisible ink was awesome. The opening with Kevin spilling the chili all over floor was also very funny.

Kevin and the chili during the intro was perhaps the funniest thing I've seen on the Office. I thought I was gonna die laughing.

i LOVED how michael went back to the fake firing prank again, from the very FIRST episode right? the british series did the same thing if i recall correctly. new receptionist is hot!

Very funny episode tonight. The scene with Meredith wearing too revealing clothing was hysterical. Dwight using urine as invisible ink was awesome. The opening with Kevin spilling the chili all over floor was also very funny.

Yes, funny, but what made it funnier is that it was Ryan's coffee cup he peed in.

Yes, awesome episode. The Meredith sequence was brilliant.

I didn't even notice that it was Ryan's cup.

-R

Very funny episode tonight. The scene with Meredith wearing too revealing clothing was hysterical. Dwight using urine as invisible ink was awesome. The opening with Kevin spilling the chili all over floor was also very funny.

My wife and I were crying during that scene. This was probably Toby's best episode as well. Giant blob of khaki and all. :)

Meredith.....boob!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My wife and I were crying during that scene. This was probably Toby's best episode as well. Giant blob of khaki and all. :)

Meredith.....boob!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Toby was hilarious with the meeting about causal Friday. And when he mentioned that no one was wearing appropriate clothes except for maybe himself, I thought to myself that hot new receptionist was dressed very casually in an approriate office manner! I hope Michael wasn't going to real-fake-fire her, cause she needs to stick around!

Much of the humor in this ep was leaning toward the broadness that I don't really care for, but there were some good moments in this one. Toby's exasperated delivery of "I haven't seen a single appropriate outfit today. Except for mine, quite frankly" killed me. Jim's likening his day with Creed as feeling like "describing a dream" was good too.

Sad if Ryan's leaving again, though. I really enjoy his latest incarnation.

The new receptionist is cute in the same kinda low-key, approachable way Pam is, except with a much higher probability that she's into really kinky stuff.

Kelly, "Meridith, where are your panties?" Also Ryan "You need to go in and bust some heads Chiklis style." Michael "Yeah Chicklis like the Commish." Ryan "Yeah Chicklis but The Sheild not the Commish." Very funny to see Dwight having changed so much. In the early episodes of the show he was such a toady to Michael.

"I'm going to have some Meat Sandwich" <Dwight> "It's Pony"

Kevin and the chili during the intro was perhaps the funniest thing I've seen on the Office. I thought I was gonna die laughing.

Shoot, our affiliate was still showing the Blazers game (which was pretty much over by the third quarter!) so we missed the beginning here. Guess I'll have to watch it on nbc.com.

Sad if Ryan's leaving again, though. I really enjoy his latest incarnation.


Since he's one of the writers, I don't think he'll be going too far.

A brave episode, to have Michael come back and it not be all kissy-kissy, how-nice-to-have-you-back.

What did I tell you about building forts in my warehouse?

I think the show is on a roll right now. Some of the best episodes have happened in the last few weeks and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

I like the new receptionist too! :D

What did I tell you about building forts in my warehouse?

In an episode filled with great lines, that one was the best.

Congrats to Mindy Kaling who just scored a two year, 7 figure deal with NBC to continue to write and appear on "The Office" and get her own show. The article here makes comparisons to Tina Fey.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118003228.html?categoryid=14&cs=1

Much like "30 Rock" star-exec producer Fey, Kaling is known for both her writing and acting skills. Behind the scenes, Kaling is a co-exec producer on "The Office," having written notable episodes including "The Dundies," "Diwali" and this season's "Golden Ticket."

"Who tipped you over.......?" :D

"Who tipped you over.......?" :D

"Was it Phillip"

What was the opening gag with Dwight and the new receptionist? My DVR missed it, and the recording started with Dwight paying her.

Great episode. I loved the part where Dwight lists the reasons for going to a court in Ohio: to get a learners permit at 14 1/2 instead of 15 years old.

The opening gag was the new receptionist saying she just won an art contest. It was supposed to get Pam angry which it didn't.

Dwight - "You can't steal what's legally yours...."

Wow...that's so wrong, but so funny...haha

Great episode. I loved the part where Dwight lists the reasons for going to a court in Ohio: to get a learners permit at 14 1/2 instead of 15 years old.

The opening gag was the new receptionist saying she just won an art contest. It was supposed to get Pam angry which it didn't.

It looked like the joke angered her, which was good enough for me (us?). :D

New Receptionist is really really cute.

Creed "I hear it too boss"

and LOL @ Phylis getting a horse massage from Dwight...and him feeding her carrots LOL

Loved this episode. There have been funnier episodes, but part of the brilliance of this show is how they make you really care for some of the characters and the depth they give them. After all the drama lately, it was nice to have a feel-good episode where they all reconnect as a team. For example, Micheal being nice to and dancing with Phyllis, Dwight helping out Phyllis with her back, Micheal being ecstatic that his coffee bar disco caught on, and the "dance off" between Kelly and Andy.
I watched the whole episode with a smile on my face.

Oh, and +1 that the new secretary should stick around. She has a naive optimism that is a perfect match for Michael. And she's very cute.

I liked the dance off.

One of my favorite lines was Micheal saying "Someone instituted a strict no eating lunch with the Boss policy here.

I think the Jim and Pam relationship is stagnating. Pam seemed to go from the cute young receptionist to just an average middle age woman this past year. I always thought when she went to art school, they would bring in a cute young girl and Jim would slowly start flirt and fall for her. Then he would question whether he was really in love or was this just a product of spending 8 hrs a day sitting next to someone who is cute and personable.

The opening gag was the new receptionist saying she just won an art contest. It was supposed to get Pam angry which it didn't.

It certainly did.

Dwight - "You can't steal what's legally yours...."

Wow...that's so wrong, but so funny...haha

"You can't steal what you legally OWN."

Oh, and +1 that the new secretary should stick around. She has a naive optimism that is a perfect match for Michael. And she's very cute.

and you forgot to mention, she is very kinky:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hm7pp_JFOs NSFW

she has some other stuff on funnyordie too. she cleaned up well for the office.

Michael consistently messing up words like calling espresso "expresso" (I used to make this same mistake since I don't drink coffee) and recommending that people "stay dehydrated".

and you forgot to mention, she is very kinky:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hm7pp_JFOs NSFW

she has some other stuff on funnyordie too. she cleaned up well for the office.

LOL - that link was hilarious

and recommending that people "stay dehydrated".

Considering that caffiene is a diuretic, he's not wrong in that case. It's kind of funny that he's actually right for once.

Another terrible episode in a terrible season. Cancellation wouldn't be a bad thing.

Another predictable post from a predictable person who doesn't even watch the show.

and you forgot to mention, she is very kinky:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hm7pp_JFOs

OK, so now I will never be able to see her on the Office again without the phrase 'so dry' popping in to my head. Thanks.

"Funk is the problem, and the solution."

"That makes sense."

Another terrible episode in a terrible season. Cancellation wouldn't be a bad thing.

Hey, it's that troll guy again. Still not changing up your shtick, eh? I hope that works out well for you.

Another terrible episode in a terrible season. Cancellation wouldn't be a bad thing.
Cancellation of what? Your membership here?

A good episode tonight. Not as funny as some of the previous episodes.

Dwight's friend was hysterical. His comment to Angela "What is 1 fiance + 1 lover = 1 whore" had me laughing so hard.

Wha???
Is Pam pregnant? Wow, that was unexpected.

yeah, it's pretty obvious that Pam is pregnant :)

Nice. Dwight's friend was hilarious.

And what about that 'bomb' Holly and Michael laid at the picnic? that was classic ;)

I particularly liked Jim's PEWPEWPEW.

http://i43.tinypic.com/11jn6rq.gif

damnit michael!! she wanted you :(

Probably my favorite episode since the trio left DM! Dwight had some nice zingers!

It was a great one. Great way to end the season.

-R

Michael's bullet point list to Holly: You and I are Soup Snakes.

Andy and Dwight are Bro-migos!

Kid to Michael: Is my Daddy gonna have a job at Christmas?
Michael to David: He's just thinking about his own gifts.

Good episode overall. Way to go Jim! Your boys can swim!

Ugh, Pam's pregnant? Awful. Why must they feel compelled to run the soap opera cliche cliffhanger gamut for Jim and Pam? Jim and Pam used to be super-relatable everypersons but they've steadily made them kind of creepy and way too into each other. Is that how most couples their age would react to an unexpected pregnancy?
No.
This episode was pleasant enough, but it's too bad they couldn't resist the compulsion to tack on an asinine Jim and Pam cliffhanger. Don't they already have the impending wedding to hang over the head of the romance-obsessed part of the fanbase? Why trot out this old chestnut already too? Ugh. I would've preferred Cafe Disco as the season-ender.

Is that how most couples their age would react to an unexpected pregnancy?

This episode was pleasant enough, but it's too bad they couldn't resist the compulsion to tack on an asinine Jim and Pam cliffhanger.

I think the keyword there is "most"....as different couples would react differently. Duh. My wife and I were extremely happy when we found out about our unexpected pregnancy, but I have friends who were devastated about theirs.

And the cliffhanger wasn't Pam being pregnant. It was who is going to win the volleyball game. :)

Ugh, Pam's pregnant? Awful. Why must they feel compelled to run the soap opera cliche cliffhanger gamut for Jim and Pam? Jim and Pam used to be super-relatable everypersons but they've steadily made them kind of creepy and way too into each other. Is that how most couples their age would react to an unexpected pregnancy?
No.
This episode was pleasant enough, but it's too bad they couldn't resist the compulsion to tack on an asinine Jim and Pam cliffhanger. Don't they already have the impending wedding to hang over the head of the romance-obsessed part of the fanbase? Why trot out this old chestnut already too? Ugh. I would've preferred Cafe Disco as the season-ender.

Agreed. Pam-Jim is by far the worst part of the show.

Right...they've been given so much screen time because they're so unpopular. :rolleyes:

I think the keyword there is "most"....as different couples would react differently. Duh. My wife and I were extremely happy when we found out about our unexpected pregnancy, but I have friends who were devastated about theirs.Fair enough, that was sorta close-minded of me to say. And it is in character for them to react that way given how lovey-dovey they are. But my point is they're becoming relatable to less and less people. Everyone can relate to pining for the cute person in the office, but considerably fewer people can relate to buying a wedding ring two weeks after you start dating someone, I'm betting.

Ever since Pam and Jim got together, they've been moved to the background a bit in favor of more of an ensemble cast. This was a smart move, but every time they trot out their Relationship Drama it's so grating because it's clearly just pandering to the people who used to watch this show just for the "will they or won't they?" stuff.

The Michael Scott Paper Company storyline fixed a lot of what's wrong with Pam and Jim. It separated them (but not too much) in a way that made sense. It gave them both something to do as characters besides love each other. Pam got her ambition back. Jim's smugness got knocked down a couple pegs. But now that everything's basically back to status quo, they make the pregnancy play to shake things up, and it just seems desperate.

yeah, it's pretty obvious that Pam is pregnant :)

Nice. Dwight's friend was hilarious.

And what about that 'bomb' Holly and Michael laid at the picnic? that was classic ;)

Walt wa splayed by teh multi-talented uber-elite charecter actor James Urbaniak, He's most notable as portraying Harry Crumb(in the acclaimed movie "American Splendor", Simon Grim from the movie Henry Foole(and sequel Fay Grim). He also voices Dr. Russell Thadius Venture from the Venture Bros. Dr. Venture's voice leaked in a bit when he went off on Angela.

Is that how most couples their age would react to an unexpected pregnancy?

Why do you think they didn't expect it? They're nearly married and most couples know where babies come from.

Walt wa splayed by teh multi-talented uber-elite charecter actor James Urbaniak, He's most notable as portraying Harry Crumb(in the acclaimed movie "American Splendor", Simon Grim from the movie Henry Foole(and sequel Fay Grim). He also voices Dr. Russell Thadius Venture from the Venture Bros. Dr. Venture's voice leaked in a bit when he went off on Angela.That was Dr. Venture? Awesome.
Why do you think they didn't expect it? They're nearly married and most couples know where babies come from.Uh, they clearly didn't expect it. Neither one had any idea before the nurse ran the mandatory pregnancy test before the X-ray.

I think their reaction was perfectly played and spot on.

pshhhhh how do you know she's really preggers... maybe she was just happy her xrays were negative.... yeah......

Walt wa splayed by teh multi-talented uber-elite charecter actor James Urbaniak, He's most notable as portraying Harry Crumb(in the acclaimed movie "American Splendor", Simon Grim from the movie Henry Foole(and sequel Fay Grim). He also voices Dr. Russell Thadius Venture from the Venture Bros. Dr. Venture's voice leaked in a bit when he went off on Angela.

He also did a great job as a very sinister villain - "the Accountant" - in NBC's short-lived but outstanding serial drama 'Kidnapped' a couple of years back.

pshhhhh how do you know she's really preggers... maybe she was just happy her xrays were negative.... yeah......Ha, I would enjoy if their elation and surprise was really about something else completely random, like spotting their very favorite X-ray machine or the nurse agreeing to join them for a three-way.

Uh, they clearly didn't expect it. Neither one had any idea before the nurse ran the mandatory pregnancy test before the X-ray.
They didn't expect to find out about it at that moment but they didn't seem the slightest bit shocked about it. They looked very happy just like any couple who had been planning a family.

I particularly liked Jim's PEWPEWPEW.

http://i43.tinypic.com/11jn6rq.gif

wait Jim is in that pic?

They didn't expect to find out about it at that moment but they didn't seem the slightest bit shocked about it. They looked very happy just like any couple who had been planning a family.I really don't see how anyone can watch that scene and not think they're surprised. I mean, even if it's like you say and they just didn't expect to find out at that exact moment, that would entail at least some amount of surprise at that moment then, yes? But I suppose it doesn't really matter. Whatever floats your boat!

Why do you think they didn't expect it? They're nearly married and most couples know where babies come from.

i'm still a little unclear about this.

could you explain to me exactly where babies come from?

loved the prank at the beginning of the show, but it had nothing to do
with any of the rest of the episode.

i agee having pam get pregnant at this point in their relationship, detracts from
all the other great story lines they have going with the characters. i hope
they just set us up. and you don't xray pregnant women unless your doctor is dwight.

loved dwight's friend. he had the best lines of the episode.

Agreed. Pam-Jim is by far the worst part of the show.

Right...they've been given so much screen time because they're so unpopular.

I think people are missing the point as to why there are those of us upset over throwing this pregnancy thing here: the point is that bringing in this pregnancy with two of the central characters is yet another "Friends" moment and there are many of us who think the show should stay pure comedy, not soapy dramedy like "Friends."

Of course, NBC wants to make an attempt to cater to women (i.e., former "Friends" fanatics) and that's why several of the season finales have involved romance (Jim kissing Pam, this pregnancy thing). Of course, that would beg the question: With The Office up against Grey's Anatomy, is there really any point to cater to the female demographic who eats this "Friends"-like stuff up?

I think people are missing the point as to why there are those of us upset over throwing this pregnancy thing here: the point is that bringing in this pregnancy with two of the central characters is yet another "Friends" moment and there are many of us who think the show should stay pure comedy, not soapy dramedy like "Friends."


I have to admit it was a "WTF?!" moment for me, only I didn't think of Friends, probably since I never watched that show, but it felt like I'd fallen into a Time Warp because the pregnancy angle seems so cliched, like something on a 70s sitcom.

They are getting married and having a baby. Lighten up and move on. It's happening.

Let's also can the sexist remarks about a pregnancy in the storyline only appealing to the female demographic. :rolleyes:

I think their reaction was perfectly played and spot on.
I liked the Pam-gets-pregnant ploy,too. I thought Pam and Jim's joyful reaction was perfect. They, of course, had to be somewhat surprised by the pregnancy, but its clear they weren't shocked.

I really enjoyed the interplay between Dwight and his squirrely friend. As always, the scenes featuring Michael and his analog, the equally socially clueless, Holly, were great. The finale was a terrific finish to the season.

the scenes featuring Michael and his analog, the equally socially clueless, Holly, were great.

I wouldn't discount the little skit they came up with being a strike back at corporate for pulling them apart. It's interesting the developments of late demonstrating Michael being a bit craftier than we might have supposed years back.

the scenes featuring Michael and his analog, the equally socially clueless, Holly, were great.

I wouldn't discount the little skit they came up with being a strike back at corporate for pulling them apart. It's interesting the developments of late demonstrating Michael being a bit craftier than we might have supposed years back.

I Am glad you wrote that, as it is an interesting angle. I thought the skit was horrible, and was thinking no way someone would bring up a branch closing, not even Michael. But the fact that he mentions that David told him in private....hmmmm

the scenes featuring Michael and his analog, the equally socially clueless, Holly, were great.

I wouldn't discount the little skit they came up with being a strike back at corporate for pulling them apart. It's interesting the developments of late demonstrating Michael being a bit craftier than we might have supposed years back.
That's a very interesting thought! I wouldn't put it past Michael to have intentionally embarrassed corporate, either. The man has certainly proved that it doesn't pay to underestimate him.:)

every time they trot out their Relationship Drama it's so grating because it's clearly just pandering to the people who used to watch this show just for the "will they or won't they?" stuff.

Or, they are just trying to be realistic. I've seen no less than 5 office marriages so far in my career. And at least one unplanned baby from coworkers dating but not married.

They are getting married and having a baby. Lighten up and move on. It's happening.

Let's also can the sexist remarks about a pregnancy in the storyline only appealing to the female demographic. :rolleyes:

I totally agree with you on this.

Or, they are just trying to be realistic. I've seen no less than 5 office marriages so far in my career.

Same here. On one congratulations card a few years ago, I jokingly wrote something that now sounds exactly like what Dwight would have written: "Why didn't you two consult with the group on this decision?"

Pregnancy, great. Now the show can concentrate on the worst part of the show even more. Michael and his ex were the highlight of the show for me. They're a couple of nutjobs, but somehow it comes off as very sweet, whereas Jim and Pam come off as a couple of holier-than-thou morons.

Pregnancy, great. Now the show can concentrate on the worst part of the show even more. Michael and his ex were the highlight of the show for me. They're a couple of nutjobs, but somehow it comes off as very sweet, whereas Jim and Pam come off as a couple of holier-than-thou morons.

you ... have a highlight of the show? you?

Pregnancy, great. Now the show can concentrate on the worst part of the show even more... Jim and Pam come off as a couple of holier-than-thou morons.

Wow, it must suck to watch a show you clearly hate. I don't envy you.

Pregnancy, great. Now the show can concentrate on the worst part of the show even more. Michael and his ex were the highlight of the show for me. They're a couple of nutjobs, but somehow it comes off as very sweet, whereas Jim and Pam come off as a couple of holier-than-thou morons.
:rolleyes: That took longer than expected.

Woot Pam's preggers!

Is gonna be all about her pregnancy next season and perhaps concluding on the birth, will they get married finally?

Pregnancy, great. Now the show can concentrate on the worst part of the show even more. Michael and his ex were the highlight of the show for me.
I thought coming here and complaining about the show was. :D

Dwight: I need to leave early because I have an appointment with the horse doctor, how that horse ever became a doctor, I'll never know! :D

Great ending to a great season. I'm also in the camp of Michael and Holly doing such a bad skit on purpose. It was almost as if they were saving up for the opportunity.

I don't see anything wrong with Pam being pregnant, after all they are the supposed normal couple.

Can't wait for next season!

Another great season-ending episode of the Office. The Jim/Pam scene was done perfectly.

Michael's boss shouldn't have been mad at him for breaking the news, he was the idiot that told him about it in the first place. :D

Skyehill, if you dislike this show so much why even watch it? As much as I detest American Idol, Dancing With the Stars, and any of the "reality" crap on television, I'm not going to force myself to watch it and then thread crap in the AVS threads for those shows. That's just bad manners IMO.

I'm kinda hoping the kid is not Jim's, but Dwight's.

DUNDA DUN DUN DUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ;)

angela's interest in dwight clearly re-ignited during the finale. this is the new ross-rachael, people!! get ready for this to drag on forever.

Skyehill, if you dislike this show so much why even watch it?
This fact may provide some insight. He said in the American Idol thread how much he hates So You Think You Can Dance (more specifically he's programming his DVR so it won't record it, whatever that means). Then in the SYTYCD thread he said, "I hope its not as terrible this season as all the previous seasons," implying that he does go out of his way to watch shows he despises, multiple seasons in fact.

Maybe he doesn't have cable. :confused:

He said in the American Idol thread how much he hates So You Think You Can Dance (more specifically he's programming his DVR so it won't record it, whatever that means). Then in the SYTYCD thread he said, "I hope its not as terrible this season as all the previous seasons,"

Wow, I don't know what's more pathetic: consistently watching shows you hate or lying about what you watch.

This fact may provide some insight. He said in the American Idol thread how much he hates So You Think You Can Dance (more specifically he's programming his DVR so it won't record it, whatever that means). Then in the SYTYCD thread he said, "I hope its not as terrible this season as all the previous seasons," implying that he does go out of his way to watch shows he despises, multiple seasons in fact.

Maybe he doesn't have cable. :confused:

Wow. It must suck to be him, having to go through life so miserable. My sympathies.

The Office gets another season!
NOT CANCELLED

Woot!

The Office gets another season!
NOT CANCELLED

Woot!
I, too, am really glad to hear that The Office will be back but I had no idea that it might get cancelled. That's probably all right; what I don't know can't hurt me.:)

The Office is the stalwart of NBC's Thursday comedy lineup and they're kind of short on stalwarts these days. It was never in any danger of being canceled.