Here we are in the middle of the tournament! These two episodes are right next to each other in the series and represents the exact middle of our tournament! I have my thoughts on where this 8-9 matchup is going, but we will see!
4.9 "Dinner Party"
Cold Open
This cold open was very long...almost 2 minutes. I really think cold opens should be less than 1:15. However, it was very funny and pertained to the episode. The entire office had to stay late to work due to some sort of project corporate wanted completed. Michael then pretended to call and tell corporate that they wouldn't stay and he let everyone go home early. This was all just a trick to get Jim and Pam to come over to his house for dinner. The open should have ended there but continued to show us that Andy and Angela were also invited, but Dwight was not. It just BARELY earned the 2nd star here. + 2 Stars
Story
There was only one plotline here and that was the dinner party Michael hosted. None of the other characters were even in the episode after the cold open. Michael and Jan had Jim, Pam, Angela, Andy and eventually Dwight over for dinner, and chaos broke loose. Michael and Jan got into such a bad argument that the police came and Michael went home with Dwight. Besides Michael getting Jim and Pam to finally hang out with him outside of work, nothing at all happened. I give it an average score. + 3 Stars
Jokes
This episode was hilarious. I hate Melora Hardin, but this was her strongest performance. Jim and Pam were the victims of the most awkward night ever. There were some hilarious moments during the tour, dinner, and after. Excellent all around. + 5 Stars
Mistakes
None. I did hear a very subtle reference to Michael being a screen writer, though. (Threat Level Midnight)
Best Quote
"You have no idea the physical toll that three vasectomies has on a person" -Michael
"That was a $200 plasma screen TV you just killed. Good luck paying me back on your $0 a year salary plus benefits babe" -Michael
Overall Score
10 Stars
4.10 "Chair Model"
Cold Open
This was a much better cold open than the one from Dinner Party. It was only 40 seconds long, and showed us the problem that Kevin and Andy are going to try to fix in the upcoming episode. It was also very funny. + 2 Stars
Story
What we had here was Michael trying to find love again after breaking up with Jan. Michael went on a stupid date with a friend of Pam that went no where. This episode wasn't very good. Just to fill in some time the writers had Andy and Kevin go on with some nonsense over parking spots. Very meh. + 2 Stars
Jokes
There was some stupid humor that was pretty good. Again, Creed saved the day with an awesome talking head moment. All in all very, very forgettable. + 2 stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Why'd you have to go off and die..." Michael
Overall Score
6 Stars
THE VERDICT
Even though these episodes were so close together, it is so obvious that one is extremely good and one is extremely bad. Easy call here.
DINNER PARTY is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 10-6
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Fun Run vs. Customer Survey
I'm not saying it's impossible, but I have been waiting for "Fun Run" for a while. I have a feeling that it could make it pretty far in this tournament! Customer Survey has a big game this week! Let's see how it breaks down...the premier of season 4 vs. an early episode of season 5...get it on!
4.1 "Fun Run"
Cold Open
A truly amazing cold open. Michael gives a basic summary of season 3 while showing a funny shot of Jan sleeping in his bed. Michael then drives to work and runs over Meredith! This sets up an entire season of laughs! Bravo! + 2 Stars
Story
Fun Run is a two-part episode that was the season 4 premier. Michael hit Meredith with his car and then put on a 5K to raise money for Rabies Awareness. We learned a lot of new information in this episode. First, Michael and Jan are still together. Second, Ryan did end up taking the job at corporate. Third, Jim broke up with Karen after their interviews that concluded season 3. Fourth, Karen, due to the break up, quit her job in Scranton and is no longer in the show. Fifth, Jim and Pam are now dating! Sixth, Dwight killed Angela's cat, which will most likely lead to them breaking up. So much to learn! It was all gold. I loved it all. + 5 Stars
Jokes
The comedy here was excellent. From Michael running over Meredith, to Dwight killing Angela's cat, to Michael throwing up at the finish line, it was all so good. Every character was in on the action in this episode. This is not an episode to watch if you have never seen The Office, but this is a classic episode that will go down as one of the best ever. + 5 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Michael, 5K means 5 kilometers, not 5,000 miles" -Pam
Overall Score
12 Stars
5.6 "Customer Survey"
Cold Open
I have mixed feelings about this one. Michael lied to the office and told everyone he was getting married to Holly. Obviously a lie, Michael is caught after he calls his mother in front of everyone. It was pretty awkward, so I guess I'll give it the point! + 1 Star
Story
I suppose there is nothing wrong with this episode going up against Fun Run. Customer Survey was about Dwight and Jim investigating after finding out that their customer reviews were bad. Also, Andy and Angela decided on Schrute Farms for their wedding venue. It turned out that Kelly forged the reviews, but Michael decided not to fire her. In all, a very average episode. + 3 Stars
Jokes
I enjoyed the comedy in this episode. Dwight and Jim were very good, especially on the phones. Michael wasn't in the episode very much, which kind of brought it down. Also, a lot of time for Kelly is never good. The "Buttlicker" joke is gold, which saved the joke score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"BUTTLICKER! OUR PRICES HAVE NEVER BEEN LOWER!" -Dwight
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
I was right about Fun Run, a perfect score! Fun Run is going to be VERY tough to beat....
FUN RUN is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 12-7
4.1 "Fun Run"
Cold Open
A truly amazing cold open. Michael gives a basic summary of season 3 while showing a funny shot of Jan sleeping in his bed. Michael then drives to work and runs over Meredith! This sets up an entire season of laughs! Bravo! + 2 Stars
Story
Fun Run is a two-part episode that was the season 4 premier. Michael hit Meredith with his car and then put on a 5K to raise money for Rabies Awareness. We learned a lot of new information in this episode. First, Michael and Jan are still together. Second, Ryan did end up taking the job at corporate. Third, Jim broke up with Karen after their interviews that concluded season 3. Fourth, Karen, due to the break up, quit her job in Scranton and is no longer in the show. Fifth, Jim and Pam are now dating! Sixth, Dwight killed Angela's cat, which will most likely lead to them breaking up. So much to learn! It was all gold. I loved it all. + 5 Stars
Jokes
The comedy here was excellent. From Michael running over Meredith, to Dwight killing Angela's cat, to Michael throwing up at the finish line, it was all so good. Every character was in on the action in this episode. This is not an episode to watch if you have never seen The Office, but this is a classic episode that will go down as one of the best ever. + 5 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Michael, 5K means 5 kilometers, not 5,000 miles" -Pam
Overall Score
12 Stars
5.6 "Customer Survey"
Cold Open
I have mixed feelings about this one. Michael lied to the office and told everyone he was getting married to Holly. Obviously a lie, Michael is caught after he calls his mother in front of everyone. It was pretty awkward, so I guess I'll give it the point! + 1 Star
Story
I suppose there is nothing wrong with this episode going up against Fun Run. Customer Survey was about Dwight and Jim investigating after finding out that their customer reviews were bad. Also, Andy and Angela decided on Schrute Farms for their wedding venue. It turned out that Kelly forged the reviews, but Michael decided not to fire her. In all, a very average episode. + 3 Stars
Jokes
I enjoyed the comedy in this episode. Dwight and Jim were very good, especially on the phones. Michael wasn't in the episode very much, which kind of brought it down. Also, a lot of time for Kelly is never good. The "Buttlicker" joke is gold, which saved the joke score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"BUTTLICKER! OUR PRICES HAVE NEVER BEEN LOWER!" -Dwight
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
I was right about Fun Run, a perfect score! Fun Run is going to be VERY tough to beat....
FUN RUN is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 12-7
The Deposition vs. Night Out
This is basically where the tournament seedings meet! Only two episodes separate these two season 4 eps. It's nice to get to break down episodes that are so similar. Again, the break down is going to be way shorter because of how many episodes there are. Let's get it on!
4.8 "The Deposition"
Cold Open
Michael was pleased the one time Pam brought him a post-it note describing a call he had received, so he instructed Pam to do so every time he was in a meeting to look important. Michael was in a meeting with Ryan (his boss) and Pam brought him a post-it note with a picture of a smiling banana. Michael told Pam that he would call the client back, but Ryan insisted that Michael took the call. This put Michael in a tough spot, and he pretended to take the call. I was going to give this open zero stars, but the "Hiya Buddy" saved it for me at the end. + 1 Star
Story
There were two main plotline, Michael being deposed for Jan's lawsuit and Jim training for and playing a ping pong game against Darryl. I suppose you could make an argument that a lawsuit against Dunder Mifflin is big news, but the fact that Dunder Mifflin won kind of put closure on the whole ordeal. Jim and Pam's role in the ping pong game was pretty lame, to be honest. I saw way more of Kelly than I ever want to see in an episode. I would say that an average score would be a fair grade for this story. + 3 Stars
Jokes
To be fair, there were some pretty solid moments. No Creed didn't help, though. The plotline with Michael was very serious, though he was still able to create humor. Michael's diary being passed around was very funny. Michael also had a funny "That's what she said" moment during his deposition. Kelly was a large source of comedy in this episode, which wasn't good at all. Her character is just terrible! In all, I thought Michael was very good, and everyone else performed below average. No moments from Creed, Kevin, or Andy did not bode well with me. Even Dwight was a little off. Michael saved it from being a disaster. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
At the very beginning of the ping pong plot, Jim and Darryl are seen playing ping pong in the background of a talking head sequence with Pam. It is shown that Darryl is a vastly superior ping pong player, but in the background Jim wins the point that the two are playing. In an attempt to make himself look like a worse ping pong player, John Krasinski "pretends" to have missed the ball completely, even though he had already won the point.
Best Quote
"Mr. Scott, who is this other woman Ryan who you refer to here as 'just as hot as Jan, but in a different way?'" Dunder Mifflin lawyer
Overall Score
6 Stars
4.11 "Night Out"
Cold Open
Short and sweet, just how I like them. Michael got gum stick in his hair and Pam suggested that Dwight get it out with peanut butter. Dwight then rubs peanut butter all over Michael's head. + 1 Star
Story
Again we have 2 main plotlines, Michael going to New York with Dwight to party with Ryan and Jim convincing the rest of the office to stay late to avoid having to come in on a Saturday. I liked the episode from both a comedic and progressive standpoint. We learned some more information about Ryan, mainly the fact that he has a drug problem (which could lead to trouble down the road). Also, more importantly, we learned that Toby is leaving the office. After announcing that he was leaving for Costa Rica, Toby hopped the fence and ran away. To the viewer, that could have been the last of Toby Flenderson for all we knew. Very significant, especially with a finale coming up. Jim showed us his leadership potential, which was nice. I thought we could have learned more about corporate life, but still I was very pleased. + 4 Stars
Jokes
This episode was very funny. Creed had one line, but it was great! Michael wasn't exactly at his best, but the staff made up for it after they got locked in. Jim calling Hank was very awkward, and the episode ended at its highest point, which is always awesome! + 4 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found. However, at the end of the night in the office, the clock read 9:04...moments later it was 9:00. Very small, and I'm just nitpicking for the sake of nitpicking.
Best Quote
"SON OF A BITCH!" -Hank
Overall Score
9 Stars
THE VERDICT
This wasn't all that tough. Toby is leaving the show? Ryan has a drug problem? These are very big cliffhangers that I couldn't wait to see explored. The other episode was centered heavily around Jan and Kelly...potentially the two worst characters on The Office. Easy call.
NIGHT OUT is the better episode and will advance in the tournament by the score of 9-6
4.8 "The Deposition"
Cold Open
Michael was pleased the one time Pam brought him a post-it note describing a call he had received, so he instructed Pam to do so every time he was in a meeting to look important. Michael was in a meeting with Ryan (his boss) and Pam brought him a post-it note with a picture of a smiling banana. Michael told Pam that he would call the client back, but Ryan insisted that Michael took the call. This put Michael in a tough spot, and he pretended to take the call. I was going to give this open zero stars, but the "Hiya Buddy" saved it for me at the end. + 1 Star
Story
There were two main plotline, Michael being deposed for Jan's lawsuit and Jim training for and playing a ping pong game against Darryl. I suppose you could make an argument that a lawsuit against Dunder Mifflin is big news, but the fact that Dunder Mifflin won kind of put closure on the whole ordeal. Jim and Pam's role in the ping pong game was pretty lame, to be honest. I saw way more of Kelly than I ever want to see in an episode. I would say that an average score would be a fair grade for this story. + 3 Stars
Jokes
To be fair, there were some pretty solid moments. No Creed didn't help, though. The plotline with Michael was very serious, though he was still able to create humor. Michael's diary being passed around was very funny. Michael also had a funny "That's what she said" moment during his deposition. Kelly was a large source of comedy in this episode, which wasn't good at all. Her character is just terrible! In all, I thought Michael was very good, and everyone else performed below average. No moments from Creed, Kevin, or Andy did not bode well with me. Even Dwight was a little off. Michael saved it from being a disaster. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
At the very beginning of the ping pong plot, Jim and Darryl are seen playing ping pong in the background of a talking head sequence with Pam. It is shown that Darryl is a vastly superior ping pong player, but in the background Jim wins the point that the two are playing. In an attempt to make himself look like a worse ping pong player, John Krasinski "pretends" to have missed the ball completely, even though he had already won the point.
Best Quote
"Mr. Scott, who is this other woman Ryan who you refer to here as 'just as hot as Jan, but in a different way?'" Dunder Mifflin lawyer
Overall Score
6 Stars
4.11 "Night Out"
Cold Open
Short and sweet, just how I like them. Michael got gum stick in his hair and Pam suggested that Dwight get it out with peanut butter. Dwight then rubs peanut butter all over Michael's head. + 1 Star
Story
Again we have 2 main plotlines, Michael going to New York with Dwight to party with Ryan and Jim convincing the rest of the office to stay late to avoid having to come in on a Saturday. I liked the episode from both a comedic and progressive standpoint. We learned some more information about Ryan, mainly the fact that he has a drug problem (which could lead to trouble down the road). Also, more importantly, we learned that Toby is leaving the office. After announcing that he was leaving for Costa Rica, Toby hopped the fence and ran away. To the viewer, that could have been the last of Toby Flenderson for all we knew. Very significant, especially with a finale coming up. Jim showed us his leadership potential, which was nice. I thought we could have learned more about corporate life, but still I was very pleased. + 4 Stars
Jokes
This episode was very funny. Creed had one line, but it was great! Michael wasn't exactly at his best, but the staff made up for it after they got locked in. Jim calling Hank was very awkward, and the episode ended at its highest point, which is always awesome! + 4 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found. However, at the end of the night in the office, the clock read 9:04...moments later it was 9:00. Very small, and I'm just nitpicking for the sake of nitpicking.
Best Quote
"SON OF A BITCH!" -Hank
Overall Score
9 Stars
THE VERDICT
This wasn't all that tough. Toby is leaving the show? Ryan has a drug problem? These are very big cliffhangers that I couldn't wait to see explored. The other episode was centered heavily around Jan and Kelly...potentially the two worst characters on The Office. Easy call.
NIGHT OUT is the better episode and will advance in the tournament by the score of 9-6
Branch Wars vs. Job Fair
4.6 “Branch Wars” vs. 4.13 “Job Fair”
I know it has been a while since I updated the tournament, and things are going to change to make it quicker to review. I am no longer going to spell out the entire synopsis of the episode. I will only be evaluating the story based off of relevance in the overall progression of the series, creativity of the plotlines, etc. The jokes will be very simple; I will mention the best quote, moments that stood out, and then give a score. Mistakes and Cold Open will still be included.
4.6 Branch Wars
Cold Open
I was pleasantly surprised with this Cold Open. We see Karen talking to a Scranton employee about a transfer, then warped to Scranton where Michael was making a Ferris-Bueller-like contraption to make it look like he was asleep at his desk. Stanley then entered and explained that he was going to transfer to Utica because the pay was higher. Funny and important! + 2 Stars
Story
The main plotline deals with Michael, Jim and Dwight heading to Utica to try to prank Karen because they think she is trying to “steal” Stanley from them in retaliation for Jim breaking up with her. After the prank goes horribly wrong, Michael returns and tells Stanley he may leave. Stanley then admits that he was never considering a move, but was just trying to get a raise. The B story shows Oscar, Pam and Toby in their “Finer Things Club”. Andy tries to join and is hilariously rejected, but Jim is offered a seat after he was humiliated in Utica. Jim embarrasses himself and Pam as a result. Creed, Kevin, Angela, Kelly, Ryan, and Meredith were not in this episode. Overall, a very intriguing plot that kind of cheated us at the end. I thought it was a good idea, but ultimately very average. + 3 Stars
Jokes
This episode was VERY funny! Michael, Jim and Dwight wearing mustaches was hilarious. Jim being a part of the finer things club was classic, and Andy was short and sweet in this episode. Michael had a confrontation with Toby that was so funny I had to watch it again! Oscar had a funny talking head moment, and even Phyllis got in on the action! Superb, but where was Creed to top it all off!?! + 4 Stars
Mistakes
When Dwight took Jim’s cell phone and threw it out the window, it was obvious that Michael was driving in the left lane. Being that Dwight threw the phone out of the passenger window, and judging by the speed the car was traveling and the angle that Dwight threw the phone, there would be almost no chance that Jim’s phone would still work after it was retrieved.
The way Michael, Dwight and Jim used their radios was completely unrealistic.
Best Quote
“Besides having sex with men, I’d say the ‘Finer Things Club’ is the gayest thing about me” –Oscar
Overall Score
9 Stars
4.13 “Job Fair”
Cold Open
Again, pleasantly surprised! Michael explained that Oscar, Pam, Darryl and he were going to “Valley View High School” to look for summer interns. Michael had some very good one-liners with Pam and Darryl, and that was that. It was short, to the point, and explained what we were about to see in a very funny and simple way. I really, really liked it. + 2 Stars
Story
This episode is presented in the classic “ABC” format. Our A story shows Michael, Pam, Oscar and Darryl head off to a nearby high school to look for a summer intern. Michael’s idea for his booth was incredibly dull, which led to zero interest in the company. Michael, in a last ditch effort to drum up business, publicly dissed all of the other companies, which resulted in nothing except him looking like an ass. The B story showed Jim, Kevin and Andy out playing golf with a potential client. Jim explained that getting this account was a big deal, and he ultimately closed it. Kevin and Andy offered comedic relief. Our C story was Dwight and Angela sitting at the office until 5 pm. Nothing much here, just an excuse to get Dwight in the episode. We discovered that Pam may consider leaving Scranton for New York or Philadelphia, and that Jim has big plans in his near future with Pam. A very nice, though average, plot. + 3 Stars
Jokes
The episode was very funny. Andy and his blisters, Michael disrupting the job fair, Dwight being Dwight. All of it was very good. The funniest part of the episode, arguably, was Andy wrecking the golf cart into the sand trap. In all, very good, but not better than average. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
Pam explains that she “used to pretend she had PMS” so she wouldn’t have to play volleyball during gym class. In the season finale of season 5, Pam is the BEST volleyball player in the entire company and even admits that she played volleyball in college. This is a mistake in that finale, not this episode.
Just like in “Basketball” from season 1, Oscar has no problem shooting hoops. In a late season 6 episode, Oscar is unable to even get the ball near the goal. That episode highlighted Oscar’s gayness, and having him be bad at sports was obviously something the writers wanted to drive home to underscore the fact that Oscar was gay. They forgot, however, that Oscar is actually good at basketball.
Best Quote
“Yeah, I’m trying to lure these kids into my booth, but kids are very wary of being lured these days. Thank you Dateline.” -Michael
Overall Score
8 Stars
This was very difficult. I hated this because there are so many episodes that have advanced that are not as good as either of these two. I suppose it doesn’t really matter, but I am considering a “reseeding” for the next round because of the unbalance in the tournament. With that said, a very good episode will be leaving…
“Branch Wars” is the better episode and will be moving on by the score of 9-8
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Dwight's Speech vs. Shareholder Meeting
Tonight brings us yet another season 2 vs. season 6 matchup. Season 2 won the first matchup and season 6 won the second. Tonight, interestingly enough, both episodes take place at a large convention!
2.17 "Dwight's Speech"
Cold Open
The Cold Open was very funny, but had nothing to do with the episode. Michael was tossing Dwight a football while talking. Jim was obviously annoyed and asked them to stop. When Michael started passing the ball to everyone around the office, Jim intercepted the ball and began to play keep away from Michael. Creed eventually passed the ball to Ryan, who was tackled by Dwight. Dwight then ran around the room trucking everyone and eventually passed the ball back to Michael. Michael looked upset for about 5 seconds, and then screamed Pam's name and threw the ball to her. Very funny, but didn't mention Dwight's speech at all. + 1 Star
Story
There are two main plotlines in this episode. First, Dwight has won salesman of the year and must give a speech at a convention, but he is horrified of public speaking. Second, Jim has had enough with Pam's wedding planning and decides to book a vacation during the time of Pam's wedding. The episode is basically two in one, with Michael and Dwight out of the office for the majority of the episode. The plotline with Michael and Dwight serves the comedic purpose, while the plotline with Jim and Pam is more serious and series progressing.
The story opens with Dwight bragging and making fun of Jim. Apparently, Dwight had won "top salesman" in Dunder Mifflin during that year, while Jim finished in 9th. Dwight's gloating quickly came to a hault when Michael informed him that he would have to give a speech at a convention. In order to help Dwight, Michael calls a meeting to give advice on public speaking. Michael's meeting proved to be no help to Dwight, as he considered the staff lower than him, thus they did not intimidate him. Jim offered to help Dwight, which was really just a prank, by offering him a sample speech by the Italian dictator during WWII. Thinking that Jim had majored in Public Speaking, Dwight kept the speech as a reference. At the convention, Dwight's name was called and he was unable to go up to the stage due to stage fright. Michael quickly offered to fill in for him while he gained confidence, and went on to make a fool of himself. When Michael was really starting to look bad, Dwight ran up to the stage in order to save him. Dwight then recited the speech Jim had given him, which shockingly motivated the large crowd. In minutes, Dwight had the crowd under his control, an obvious joke on how persuasive dictators were. Michael became extremely jealous that the crowd had enjoyed Dwight, and he left the room and went to the bar. After his speech, Dwight joined Michael at the bar. Michael, in an attempt to down-play Dwight's success, exaggerated a story about a woman he had met at the bar to make it seem more interesting than Dwight's hit speech. Dwight, a loyal friend, was immediately interested in Michael's story, leaving Michael satisfied. In the end, Michael congratulated himself for his ability to entertain the man that entertained a thousand people, and saw his accomplishment as being greater than Dwight's.
The "B" story evolved around Jim being fed up with Pam's wedding planning. Jim is obviously in love with Pam, and he literally cannot stand to be around her being with another man any longer. Jim decided that he needed to go on vacation, but received mixed reactions from the staff. Ryan admitted that he did not think that Jim was the kind of guy to even leave Pennsylvania, and gave several examples of how predictable Jim really was. Jim booked a trip to Australia and told Pam that he would not be attending her wedding. This made Pam upset, but it seemed as if she wasn't going to stop Jim from going.
I liked this episode a lot. Following the "Dundies" is a tough task, but I feel like Dwight's Speech did well. We found out that Dwight is a better salesman than we thought, and that Jim is actually making a move. This move, even though it seemed like he was giving up, shows how emotionally distraught Jim was that Pam was going through with the wedding. We now have to wait and see if Jim really goes on his trip, and if Pam goes through with her wedding. Nice cliffhanger. + 3 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were about average in this episode. I was, again, put off by the disclusion of Creed. Dwight's speech was pretty funny, and Michael making an ass of himself was also pretty humorous. I guess the comedic highlight was when Dwight decided to read the speech that Jim had given him. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"What is the difference between a business man and a business woman?...Boobs." Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
6.10 "Shareholder Meeting"
Cold Open
There is really just one word to describe this cold open. Recyclops. Yes, Dwight dressed up as "Recyclops" for Earth Day to raise awareness for recycling. The Open showed Dwight dressed up throughout several years (Even showing Ryan and Ronnie as receptionists!!) and gave a short, but hilarious, history of Recyclops. In short, Recyclops's planet was destroyed by "Pollutocorn" and now Recyclops hates earth. Dwight barged into the office and began to destroy everything. Awesome. I am making an exception and awarding the second star even though this had nothing to do with the episode because of the inclusion of Ronnie and the nostalgic look at past seasons. One of the better Cold Opens in the entire series. + 2 Stars
Story
Like in most episodes, there are two main plotlines. The "A" story deals with Michael, Dwight, Andy, and Oscar heading to a Shareholder Meeting in New York. The "B" story centers around Jim dealing with an insubordinate Ryan in order to prove his authority to the rest of the staff.
The episode opens with Michael going over strategies on how to address the crowd when his name is called at the Shareholder Meeting. Michael is expecting a large ovation because he is the only bright spot for the company that will be introduced during the entire meeting. Dunder Mifflin is going bankrupt, and Michael was invited to the meeting as a device to instill false confidence into the minds of the shareholders. After Michael perfected his introduction, he was notified by Erin that a limo had arrived to pick him up. Michael, along with the rest of the staff, was completely blown away by the limo. Because the limo held so many people, Michael invited Oscar, Dwight, and Andy to come along. Andy and Dwight came along for the thrill of the trip, while Oscar was more interested in what would be discussed at the meeting. It was clear that Oscar was not only aware of the company's bankruptcy, but that he possibly had a realistic plan to save the company. Upon arrival, Michael was ushered up to a suite where he met with David Wallace and other executives, including the CEO of Dunder Mifflin. Michael was completely ready for his huge entrance into the meeting, but was disappointed when he was greeted with boos. Michael was equally disappointed in his ovation, which was only a few claps from Dwight and Andy, and he was further infuriated when another introduction received a slightly louder applause. After the CEO announced that there would be a short intermission, Michael took over the microphone and promised that they would return with a "45 day plan" to save the company. Michael then received a standing ovation and performed his "spin" as he had practiced it earlier that morning. Back in the suite, the CEO and other executives scolded Michael for what he had promised. It was at this time that the CEO revealed that there wasn't a plan to save Dunder Mifflin, and that bankruptcy was inevitable. Michael, in a last ditch effort to save his beloved company, texted Oscar to come up to the suite to pitch his idea. Oscar, smartly, declined to comment because he likely knew that another company would soon be taking over, and it would be best for his job security to not reveal what he knew. After this, the executives became furious and booted Michael out of the meeting. The 4-some ran out of the building and caught the limo in time for a ride back to Scranton. The story left us with the "DMI" symbol on wall-street at a record low, a clear indication that big change is ahead.
The "B" story happened back in Scranton at the office. Jim, regardless of the bankruptcy issue, asked Ryan to organize a specific file. Ryan, lazy and figuring that the company was out of business anyways, refused and kept on wasting time playing computer games and talking to Kelly. After more staff members overlooked his authority, Jim publicly exclaimed that he was just as much a boss as Michael. In order to prove his authority, Jim moved all of Ryan's things into a closet and forced him to work there. Ryan tried to dissuade Jim, but to no avail. Jim, now seen as an authority figure, was visibly pleased when he looked into the camera. This served a purpose of not only establishing Jim as an authority, but a win for Jim against Ryan. Ryan had always talked down to and threatened Jim in the past, and it was a nice touch to see Jim finally rise above his old rival. I am sure a lot of 9-5 workers out there can identify with this.
In all, I really liked the story. Obviously, the "A" showed us that Dunder Mifflin is soon to be no more. That is a HUGE realization. Where will everyone go if there is no company? I even loved the way they presented this huge twist in the series. Michael rallying up the meeting was so funny, even though I had in the back of my mind the question of where the company went from that point. Even the "B" story was effective in showing us that Jim can be the manager, and taking down his biggest rival was where he started. Jim had always been mismanaged by Ryan, and now to see Jim getting his shots in was a real treat. I know I hate late seasons, but this was a diamond in the rough. + 4 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were only average. Michael at the meeting was obviously the comedic highlight, with the "spin" taking the cake as best moment. Michael dealing with the executives was also very funny. The jokes in the "B" story just didn't work for me, and this episode forced me to start hating Phyllis's character. Andy didn't bring his A game, but Dwight saved it with some quality one-liners and his "question" at the meeting. In all, very average, with some memorable moments. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Where's the off button on this moron!" -Alan Brand, CEO of Dunder Mifflin to Michael
Overall Score
9 Stars
THE VERDICT
I was shocked that Shareholder Meeting scored as high as it did. When I looked at it, it was really just as significant as many other moments earlier in the series. I have to admit, what is more significant than confirmation from the CEO that Dunder Mifflin is going out of business? I have to put that up there with Ryan going to jail, Toby leaving the show, Michael falling in love with Holly, and so on. I may be wrong, but Shareholder Meeting may be the last of the "very good" episodes. I am interested to see how it stacks up against other competition.
SHAREHOLDER MEETING is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the shocking final score of 9-7
2.17 "Dwight's Speech"
Cold Open
The Cold Open was very funny, but had nothing to do with the episode. Michael was tossing Dwight a football while talking. Jim was obviously annoyed and asked them to stop. When Michael started passing the ball to everyone around the office, Jim intercepted the ball and began to play keep away from Michael. Creed eventually passed the ball to Ryan, who was tackled by Dwight. Dwight then ran around the room trucking everyone and eventually passed the ball back to Michael. Michael looked upset for about 5 seconds, and then screamed Pam's name and threw the ball to her. Very funny, but didn't mention Dwight's speech at all. + 1 Star
Story
There are two main plotlines in this episode. First, Dwight has won salesman of the year and must give a speech at a convention, but he is horrified of public speaking. Second, Jim has had enough with Pam's wedding planning and decides to book a vacation during the time of Pam's wedding. The episode is basically two in one, with Michael and Dwight out of the office for the majority of the episode. The plotline with Michael and Dwight serves the comedic purpose, while the plotline with Jim and Pam is more serious and series progressing.
The story opens with Dwight bragging and making fun of Jim. Apparently, Dwight had won "top salesman" in Dunder Mifflin during that year, while Jim finished in 9th. Dwight's gloating quickly came to a hault when Michael informed him that he would have to give a speech at a convention. In order to help Dwight, Michael calls a meeting to give advice on public speaking. Michael's meeting proved to be no help to Dwight, as he considered the staff lower than him, thus they did not intimidate him. Jim offered to help Dwight, which was really just a prank, by offering him a sample speech by the Italian dictator during WWII. Thinking that Jim had majored in Public Speaking, Dwight kept the speech as a reference. At the convention, Dwight's name was called and he was unable to go up to the stage due to stage fright. Michael quickly offered to fill in for him while he gained confidence, and went on to make a fool of himself. When Michael was really starting to look bad, Dwight ran up to the stage in order to save him. Dwight then recited the speech Jim had given him, which shockingly motivated the large crowd. In minutes, Dwight had the crowd under his control, an obvious joke on how persuasive dictators were. Michael became extremely jealous that the crowd had enjoyed Dwight, and he left the room and went to the bar. After his speech, Dwight joined Michael at the bar. Michael, in an attempt to down-play Dwight's success, exaggerated a story about a woman he had met at the bar to make it seem more interesting than Dwight's hit speech. Dwight, a loyal friend, was immediately interested in Michael's story, leaving Michael satisfied. In the end, Michael congratulated himself for his ability to entertain the man that entertained a thousand people, and saw his accomplishment as being greater than Dwight's.
The "B" story evolved around Jim being fed up with Pam's wedding planning. Jim is obviously in love with Pam, and he literally cannot stand to be around her being with another man any longer. Jim decided that he needed to go on vacation, but received mixed reactions from the staff. Ryan admitted that he did not think that Jim was the kind of guy to even leave Pennsylvania, and gave several examples of how predictable Jim really was. Jim booked a trip to Australia and told Pam that he would not be attending her wedding. This made Pam upset, but it seemed as if she wasn't going to stop Jim from going.
I liked this episode a lot. Following the "Dundies" is a tough task, but I feel like Dwight's Speech did well. We found out that Dwight is a better salesman than we thought, and that Jim is actually making a move. This move, even though it seemed like he was giving up, shows how emotionally distraught Jim was that Pam was going through with the wedding. We now have to wait and see if Jim really goes on his trip, and if Pam goes through with her wedding. Nice cliffhanger. + 3 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were about average in this episode. I was, again, put off by the disclusion of Creed. Dwight's speech was pretty funny, and Michael making an ass of himself was also pretty humorous. I guess the comedic highlight was when Dwight decided to read the speech that Jim had given him. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"What is the difference between a business man and a business woman?...Boobs." Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
6.10 "Shareholder Meeting"
Cold Open
There is really just one word to describe this cold open. Recyclops. Yes, Dwight dressed up as "Recyclops" for Earth Day to raise awareness for recycling. The Open showed Dwight dressed up throughout several years (Even showing Ryan and Ronnie as receptionists!!) and gave a short, but hilarious, history of Recyclops. In short, Recyclops's planet was destroyed by "Pollutocorn" and now Recyclops hates earth. Dwight barged into the office and began to destroy everything. Awesome. I am making an exception and awarding the second star even though this had nothing to do with the episode because of the inclusion of Ronnie and the nostalgic look at past seasons. One of the better Cold Opens in the entire series. + 2 Stars
Story
Like in most episodes, there are two main plotlines. The "A" story deals with Michael, Dwight, Andy, and Oscar heading to a Shareholder Meeting in New York. The "B" story centers around Jim dealing with an insubordinate Ryan in order to prove his authority to the rest of the staff.
The episode opens with Michael going over strategies on how to address the crowd when his name is called at the Shareholder Meeting. Michael is expecting a large ovation because he is the only bright spot for the company that will be introduced during the entire meeting. Dunder Mifflin is going bankrupt, and Michael was invited to the meeting as a device to instill false confidence into the minds of the shareholders. After Michael perfected his introduction, he was notified by Erin that a limo had arrived to pick him up. Michael, along with the rest of the staff, was completely blown away by the limo. Because the limo held so many people, Michael invited Oscar, Dwight, and Andy to come along. Andy and Dwight came along for the thrill of the trip, while Oscar was more interested in what would be discussed at the meeting. It was clear that Oscar was not only aware of the company's bankruptcy, but that he possibly had a realistic plan to save the company. Upon arrival, Michael was ushered up to a suite where he met with David Wallace and other executives, including the CEO of Dunder Mifflin. Michael was completely ready for his huge entrance into the meeting, but was disappointed when he was greeted with boos. Michael was equally disappointed in his ovation, which was only a few claps from Dwight and Andy, and he was further infuriated when another introduction received a slightly louder applause. After the CEO announced that there would be a short intermission, Michael took over the microphone and promised that they would return with a "45 day plan" to save the company. Michael then received a standing ovation and performed his "spin" as he had practiced it earlier that morning. Back in the suite, the CEO and other executives scolded Michael for what he had promised. It was at this time that the CEO revealed that there wasn't a plan to save Dunder Mifflin, and that bankruptcy was inevitable. Michael, in a last ditch effort to save his beloved company, texted Oscar to come up to the suite to pitch his idea. Oscar, smartly, declined to comment because he likely knew that another company would soon be taking over, and it would be best for his job security to not reveal what he knew. After this, the executives became furious and booted Michael out of the meeting. The 4-some ran out of the building and caught the limo in time for a ride back to Scranton. The story left us with the "DMI" symbol on wall-street at a record low, a clear indication that big change is ahead.
The "B" story happened back in Scranton at the office. Jim, regardless of the bankruptcy issue, asked Ryan to organize a specific file. Ryan, lazy and figuring that the company was out of business anyways, refused and kept on wasting time playing computer games and talking to Kelly. After more staff members overlooked his authority, Jim publicly exclaimed that he was just as much a boss as Michael. In order to prove his authority, Jim moved all of Ryan's things into a closet and forced him to work there. Ryan tried to dissuade Jim, but to no avail. Jim, now seen as an authority figure, was visibly pleased when he looked into the camera. This served a purpose of not only establishing Jim as an authority, but a win for Jim against Ryan. Ryan had always talked down to and threatened Jim in the past, and it was a nice touch to see Jim finally rise above his old rival. I am sure a lot of 9-5 workers out there can identify with this.
In all, I really liked the story. Obviously, the "A" showed us that Dunder Mifflin is soon to be no more. That is a HUGE realization. Where will everyone go if there is no company? I even loved the way they presented this huge twist in the series. Michael rallying up the meeting was so funny, even though I had in the back of my mind the question of where the company went from that point. Even the "B" story was effective in showing us that Jim can be the manager, and taking down his biggest rival was where he started. Jim had always been mismanaged by Ryan, and now to see Jim getting his shots in was a real treat. I know I hate late seasons, but this was a diamond in the rough. + 4 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were only average. Michael at the meeting was obviously the comedic highlight, with the "spin" taking the cake as best moment. Michael dealing with the executives was also very funny. The jokes in the "B" story just didn't work for me, and this episode forced me to start hating Phyllis's character. Andy didn't bring his A game, but Dwight saved it with some quality one-liners and his "question" at the meeting. In all, very average, with some memorable moments. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Where's the off button on this moron!" -Alan Brand, CEO of Dunder Mifflin to Michael
Overall Score
9 Stars
THE VERDICT
I was shocked that Shareholder Meeting scored as high as it did. When I looked at it, it was really just as significant as many other moments earlier in the series. I have to admit, what is more significant than confirmation from the CEO that Dunder Mifflin is going out of business? I have to put that up there with Ryan going to jail, Toby leaving the show, Michael falling in love with Holly, and so on. I may be wrong, but Shareholder Meeting may be the last of the "very good" episodes. I am interested to see how it stacks up against other competition.
SHAREHOLDER MEETING is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the shocking final score of 9-7
Monday, January 31, 2011
Drug Testing vs. Koi Pond
Here we have yet another matchup between a late episode of season 2, and an early episode of season 6. It is so ironic that these two episodes are against each other because episodes 2.21 and 6.6 JUST went up against each other! The episode from season 2 won easily, and I am starting to see a pattern as I watch episodes from conflicting seasons. It seems that the earlier the episode, the more involved I feel. I am starting to feel like I am the camera man in these episodes. In the later seasons, I feel like I am watching a television show. Although this may be good for my sanity, it hasn't been as good for the episodes in the tournament. Let's see how this one plays out.
2.20 "Drug Testing"
Cold Open
Dwight is dressed like a cop to investigate a joint found on company property over the weekend. During an interview with Kevin, Dwight compares Kevin's personality to that of a dope user. The Open was pretty funny. I like how it incorporated the premise of the episode and wasn't just childish nonsense. I had a hard time deciding on 1 star or 2 stars, but I think Dwight admitting that being a volunteer deputy has made him zero friends put it over the top. + 2 Stars
Story
This episode was pretty straight-forward. We open with Dwight launching an investigation because he found a joint in the parking lot. This leads to a bunch of nonsense that ends with him calling in drug testers. We do have an interesting "B" story where Jim in jinxed by Pam and cannot speak until he buys her a coke.
Dwight found a joint in the parking lot and now will stop at nothing to find who has left it there. Dwight put on his deputy uniform and conducted interviews with everyone in the office. Though several employees seemed suspicious, Dwight was unable to come to any conclusions. He then decided to call in special drug testers to sample everyone's urine, which scared Michael. Michael revealed to Dwight that he may have accidentally used drugs at a concert he had attended a few days back, that the joint wasn't his, and that he needed Dwight's urine. Although a very proud man, Dwight finally agreed to give Michael his urine. Distraught at his illegal behavior, Dwight turned in his deputy uniform. Michael, happy to have avoided suspicion, made him an hororary corporal in the security of the building. Ultimately, though we suspected Ryan, Dwight's investigation yielded no conclusive evidence of who had left the joint in the parking lot.
Meanwhile, Pam "jinxed" Jim, which meant he was not allowed to speak until he bought Pam a coke. Jim went to the coke machine, and Pam was delighted when she found out that the machine was out of coke. For the rest of the day Pam tried to lure Jim into situations that would require him to speak. Jim played it through the entire day without speaking, even during an intense moment where it appeared that Pam finally realized that she was really in love with Jim instead of Roy. In the end, Jim bought Pam her coke, and all was well.
I know this is a set up episode, but something is lacking. There wasn't as much story progression as I like to see, and this episode did little to set up "Conflict Resolution". I hate to say it, but taking this episode out wouldn't hurt the season. That is never a good thing. In all, it wasn't the best story. + 2 Stars
Jokes
Dwight had some really funny moments in this episode. Dwight's interviews with Creed and Oscar were particularly funny. Besides that, Dwight and Michael delivered on their usual one-liners and that was about it. I don't know why this review is so short, there really is just not much more to say. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
Dwight claims that his grandfather's last name was "Shrude", although it is stated in later episodes that Dwight's ancestry came from a last name pronounced similarly to "Beiheim". I'll check on this in future episodes.
Best Quote
"Do you think that smoking drugs is cool? Do you think that doing alcohol is cool?" Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
6.7 "Koi Pond"
Cold Open
We opened with Jim and Michael having a discussion in Jim's office. Apparently, Jim was all set to leave for a meeting somewhere when Erin explained that whoever they are meeting with would also like Michael to come along. Jim called and explained that he is a manager now, but the voice on the other side insisted Michael join him. This obviously pleased Michael and irritated Jim. The Open wasn't very funny, but did set us up for the episode we were about to see. It wasn't the lamest Open ever, but it wasn't anything good. + 1 Star
Story
"Koi Pond" follows an "A" and a "B" story. The A centers around Michael trying to avoid teasing after he fell into a koi pond during a sale. The B followed Andy and Pam on cold calls around Scranton. We learned that Andy and Erin is a love possibility, and that's about it.
The beginning of the episode showed Michael and Jim returning from a sales call with Michael soaking wet from head to toe. Originally, Michael tried to say that he was caught in a rain storm, but it was eventually figured out that he had fallen into a koi pond. Michael, upset that he was being made fun of, decided to host a Sensitivity Training seminar in order to put his koi pond incident off limits from all teasing. All that was accomplished during the seminar was embarrassing moments for staff members that were later used to mock them. Because Michael had only made matters worse with his seminar, he looked to Jim for advice. Jim claimed that sometimes when people make fun of themselves, people tend to forget the whole thing. Michael was initially successful, but took it too far after several humiliating stories. With things at their worst, the footage of Michael falling fell into the hands of the staff. Jim tried to prevent the staff from watching the film, but Michael told them it was ok. It was discovered in the video that Jim could have easily prevented Michael from falling, but did not because he was still upset over Michael having to come with him. This immediately started a barrage of jokes against Jim, which was a welcomed change for Michael. In the end, Michael and Jim made up and were back to the way they were at the beginning of the episode.
The "B" story followed Pam and Andy on cold calls. It was revealed that Pam and Andy had the lowest sales numbers, thus having to go on the cold calls. Pam and Andy had very little success, and Andy was offended when Pam insisted to potential clients that she was not in a relationship with Andy. Andy, in order to get back at Pam, went over the top in describing the kind of women he dates to a potential client. This, of course, made the client very uncomfortable. After realizing that they were having no luck, they decided to pretend that they were, in fact, a couple. This yielded similar results, although slightly more positive. Andy creeped out Pam with his vast knowledge of birthing coaches, which led to Andy admitting that he was incredibly lonely. Andy admitted that he was interested in Erin, and it was confirmed that the feelings were mutual when Pam talked to Erin at the end of the episode.
It is hard to evaluate this episode. Most of the "A" story was complete nonsense, but I liked it. Most of the "B" story was simply there to lead up to Andy liking Erin, which I felt was poorly drawn out. I cannot argue with the fact that the writers were trying hard to create more plotlines to explore, so I give points for bringing the Andy/Erin fiasco to life. As far as all other story progression, nothing was made. + 3 Stars
Jokes
I was pleasantly surprised with the comedy in this episode! Michael fell into a koi pond and then was the butt of all jokes after he returned soaking wet. The highlight of the episode was when Michael, due to Jim's advice, told the entire office that the volleyball team used to throw him in a frozen lake at his high school. Andy and Pam had some pretty funny moments, though it is so clear that Andy and Pam don't mesh well comedically. Both characters are COMPLETE opposites and their humor didn't really mix that well at times. In all, it was a pretty funny episode. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"In high school, the girl's volleyball team always used to throw me in the frozen lake...four years in a row." Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
This has been the most difficult decision yet. In one episode, we have not a lot of action, but a lot of comedy. In another, we have a balanced mix of the two. Usually I would always give a tie to the earlier episode, but I really felt that Drug Testing was completely unnecessary in the season. Koi Pond, on the other hand, ended strongly by introducing Andy and Erin's love connection. I don't see either episode going another round, so this matchup is almost pointless. I hate to do this, but...
KOI POND is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 7-7
2.20 "Drug Testing"
Cold Open
Dwight is dressed like a cop to investigate a joint found on company property over the weekend. During an interview with Kevin, Dwight compares Kevin's personality to that of a dope user. The Open was pretty funny. I like how it incorporated the premise of the episode and wasn't just childish nonsense. I had a hard time deciding on 1 star or 2 stars, but I think Dwight admitting that being a volunteer deputy has made him zero friends put it over the top. + 2 Stars
Story
This episode was pretty straight-forward. We open with Dwight launching an investigation because he found a joint in the parking lot. This leads to a bunch of nonsense that ends with him calling in drug testers. We do have an interesting "B" story where Jim in jinxed by Pam and cannot speak until he buys her a coke.
Dwight found a joint in the parking lot and now will stop at nothing to find who has left it there. Dwight put on his deputy uniform and conducted interviews with everyone in the office. Though several employees seemed suspicious, Dwight was unable to come to any conclusions. He then decided to call in special drug testers to sample everyone's urine, which scared Michael. Michael revealed to Dwight that he may have accidentally used drugs at a concert he had attended a few days back, that the joint wasn't his, and that he needed Dwight's urine. Although a very proud man, Dwight finally agreed to give Michael his urine. Distraught at his illegal behavior, Dwight turned in his deputy uniform. Michael, happy to have avoided suspicion, made him an hororary corporal in the security of the building. Ultimately, though we suspected Ryan, Dwight's investigation yielded no conclusive evidence of who had left the joint in the parking lot.
Meanwhile, Pam "jinxed" Jim, which meant he was not allowed to speak until he bought Pam a coke. Jim went to the coke machine, and Pam was delighted when she found out that the machine was out of coke. For the rest of the day Pam tried to lure Jim into situations that would require him to speak. Jim played it through the entire day without speaking, even during an intense moment where it appeared that Pam finally realized that she was really in love with Jim instead of Roy. In the end, Jim bought Pam her coke, and all was well.
I know this is a set up episode, but something is lacking. There wasn't as much story progression as I like to see, and this episode did little to set up "Conflict Resolution". I hate to say it, but taking this episode out wouldn't hurt the season. That is never a good thing. In all, it wasn't the best story. + 2 Stars
Jokes
Dwight had some really funny moments in this episode. Dwight's interviews with Creed and Oscar were particularly funny. Besides that, Dwight and Michael delivered on their usual one-liners and that was about it. I don't know why this review is so short, there really is just not much more to say. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
Dwight claims that his grandfather's last name was "Shrude", although it is stated in later episodes that Dwight's ancestry came from a last name pronounced similarly to "Beiheim". I'll check on this in future episodes.
Best Quote
"Do you think that smoking drugs is cool? Do you think that doing alcohol is cool?" Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
6.7 "Koi Pond"
Cold Open
We opened with Jim and Michael having a discussion in Jim's office. Apparently, Jim was all set to leave for a meeting somewhere when Erin explained that whoever they are meeting with would also like Michael to come along. Jim called and explained that he is a manager now, but the voice on the other side insisted Michael join him. This obviously pleased Michael and irritated Jim. The Open wasn't very funny, but did set us up for the episode we were about to see. It wasn't the lamest Open ever, but it wasn't anything good. + 1 Star
Story
"Koi Pond" follows an "A" and a "B" story. The A centers around Michael trying to avoid teasing after he fell into a koi pond during a sale. The B followed Andy and Pam on cold calls around Scranton. We learned that Andy and Erin is a love possibility, and that's about it.
The beginning of the episode showed Michael and Jim returning from a sales call with Michael soaking wet from head to toe. Originally, Michael tried to say that he was caught in a rain storm, but it was eventually figured out that he had fallen into a koi pond. Michael, upset that he was being made fun of, decided to host a Sensitivity Training seminar in order to put his koi pond incident off limits from all teasing. All that was accomplished during the seminar was embarrassing moments for staff members that were later used to mock them. Because Michael had only made matters worse with his seminar, he looked to Jim for advice. Jim claimed that sometimes when people make fun of themselves, people tend to forget the whole thing. Michael was initially successful, but took it too far after several humiliating stories. With things at their worst, the footage of Michael falling fell into the hands of the staff. Jim tried to prevent the staff from watching the film, but Michael told them it was ok. It was discovered in the video that Jim could have easily prevented Michael from falling, but did not because he was still upset over Michael having to come with him. This immediately started a barrage of jokes against Jim, which was a welcomed change for Michael. In the end, Michael and Jim made up and were back to the way they were at the beginning of the episode.
The "B" story followed Pam and Andy on cold calls. It was revealed that Pam and Andy had the lowest sales numbers, thus having to go on the cold calls. Pam and Andy had very little success, and Andy was offended when Pam insisted to potential clients that she was not in a relationship with Andy. Andy, in order to get back at Pam, went over the top in describing the kind of women he dates to a potential client. This, of course, made the client very uncomfortable. After realizing that they were having no luck, they decided to pretend that they were, in fact, a couple. This yielded similar results, although slightly more positive. Andy creeped out Pam with his vast knowledge of birthing coaches, which led to Andy admitting that he was incredibly lonely. Andy admitted that he was interested in Erin, and it was confirmed that the feelings were mutual when Pam talked to Erin at the end of the episode.
It is hard to evaluate this episode. Most of the "A" story was complete nonsense, but I liked it. Most of the "B" story was simply there to lead up to Andy liking Erin, which I felt was poorly drawn out. I cannot argue with the fact that the writers were trying hard to create more plotlines to explore, so I give points for bringing the Andy/Erin fiasco to life. As far as all other story progression, nothing was made. + 3 Stars
Jokes
I was pleasantly surprised with the comedy in this episode! Michael fell into a koi pond and then was the butt of all jokes after he returned soaking wet. The highlight of the episode was when Michael, due to Jim's advice, told the entire office that the volleyball team used to throw him in a frozen lake at his high school. Andy and Pam had some pretty funny moments, though it is so clear that Andy and Pam don't mesh well comedically. Both characters are COMPLETE opposites and their humor didn't really mix that well at times. In all, it was a pretty funny episode. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"In high school, the girl's volleyball team always used to throw me in the frozen lake...four years in a row." Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
This has been the most difficult decision yet. In one episode, we have not a lot of action, but a lot of comedy. In another, we have a balanced mix of the two. Usually I would always give a tie to the earlier episode, but I really felt that Drug Testing was completely unnecessary in the season. Koi Pond, on the other hand, ended strongly by introducing Andy and Erin's love connection. I don't see either episode going another round, so this matchup is almost pointless. I hate to do this, but...
KOI POND is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 7-7
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Conflict Resolution vs. The Lover
This matchup includes episodes from the 2nd and 6th seasons. Two complete different seasons...should be fun to break down.
2.21 "Conflict Resolution"
Cold Open
Pam was organizing her wedding with Roy and Jim gave a confessional that proved he was less than happy with her making her wedding plans so public. Pam carried on with Phyllis in the break room, where it was discovered that Angela had not yet received her invitation. Being that Pam hated Angela at this point, Pam admitted that Angela was not invited to the wedding. This Open wasn't funny, but it does give foreshadowing for the episode, because it is Jim that complained about Pam. + 1 Star
Story
Conflict Resolution started with the staff having to take pictures for new security badges. Michael was in his office when he heard Oscar screaming. Upon investigation, he discovered that Oscar was complaining to Toby about a poster Angela was displaying at her desk. Toby instructed Michael that, typically, the disgruntled employee will just vent their anger, and the issue will eventually blow over. Obviously unhappy with this option, Michael decided to mediate their issue. Angela and Oscar exchanged unhappy words, but Michael eventually mediated the conflict successfully. Seeing how rewarding this was, Michael then physically obtained the rest of the complaints that Toby had recorded. Michael decided to read the complaints out loud, which caused even more conflict for the staff. Pam, who had reluctantly invited Angela to her wedding after she complained of not receiving an invitation in the cold open, was shocked to discover that someone (most likely Angela) complained that Pam used work time to plan her wedding. During the attempted mediating Michael was conducting, Dwight discovered that Toby had not sent his many complaints about Jim to corporate like he said he would. This drove Dwight to give Michael an ultimatum: either fire Jim, or Dwight would quit. Dwight, most likely to mock Jim, informed him that there was a sales opening in Stamford. Jim, being distraught over Pam's wedding and realizing how much of his life and time was being wasted in Scranton, actually considered the idea of a transfer. By the end of the episode, Pam was so mad at Angela that she was about to rescind her invitation. Jim, knowing the truth, intervened right as Pam was about to talk to Angela, and admitted to the complaint. Pam was visibly upset with Jim, and the closing scene showed us Jim at the corporate office applying for the position in Stamford.
This episode was very interesting. I didn't like the idea of security badges being the bridge to the conflict resolution plotline mainly because the badges were never worn in future episodes! The series progression was pretty pivotal, as "Conflict Resolution" sits right at the end of season two, which was when the PB&J love drama was at its highest. Finding out that Jim was considering a transfer, especially with a finale to follow, was also huge news. In all, the episode was very sub-par until the news of the possible transfer. Jim is really starting to get fed up with Pam and Roy's relationship, which would make this finale VERY anticipated! Just like "Beach Games", "Conflict Resolution" is a set-up episode that left us with some big cliffhangers. Will Pam marry Roy? Will Jim move to Stamford? These answers could, and will, change the entire series. I didn't like where it started, but loved where it finished. + 4 Stars
Jokes
This episode wasn't the funniest, as its main purpose was to build anticipation for the finale. The problem was that there was a lot of time at the beginning of the episode where there was room for some nice comedy. We did get more Creed than we usually do, which is awesome. Creed's "mug shot", his distaste for the "racist bathroom", and his distinct old man smell was all very entertaining. Michael had his usual moments of comical nonsense, but nothing that really stood out. There was a "that's what she said" moment that was pretty funny, but nothing to record in the history books. In all, it was very average. I suppose Dwight's mug shot bit was enough to save the comedy score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
The first 7-10 minutes of the episode was focused on the ID badges. This is disappointing because the badges are NEVER worn again!
Oscar agreed to make the poster into a shirt, and then wear the shirt...he never did either.
Best Quote
"What do you know about conflict resolution? Your answer to everything is 'get divorced'" -Michael to Toby
Angela: You already did me.
Michael: That's what she said.
Overall Score
8 Stars
6.6 "The Lover"
Cold Open
Jim and Pam return from their honeymoon and find that the office is exactly as they left it. Michael showed off his new character for improv class, which was incredibly dull, and Meredith complained that nothing was brought back for them as a present. This was out of her character, and not funny. Not funny at all.
Story
There were two main plotlines in this episode. The first was Jim and Pam dealing with the realization that Michael was now dating Pam's mother. The second was Dwight attempting to spy on Jim, which only persuaded Jim to prank Dwight. The first plotline was neither strong nor weak. The plotline is necessary, since we had to assume that Pam would eventually find out that Michael was dating her mother.
Expecting that there is nothing new to report, Jim was shocked when he found out that Michael was sleeping with Pam's mom. Jim pleaded with Michael to not tell Pam and to immediately break off the relationship. After a short conversation, Michael agreed to break it off. Unfortunately for her, Pam overheard a conversation between Michael and Erin regarding reservations for two at a nice restaurant. Pam asked Michael who the date was with, and was then horrified. Pam became insubordinate towards Michael and threw a tantrum in a meeting, which outed Michael's relationship with Pam's mother to the entire office. Although most of the staff sided with Pam, the general feeling was that Pam had overreacted. Believing that he had been a victim of a hostile work environment, Michael confided in Toby, which eventually led to them embracing. The term "conflict resolution" was ironically mentioned! Toby then attempted to mediate the situation, which ended in failure. Michael, fed up with Pam's insubordination, claimed that he was going to keep dating Pam's mom despite her. The plotline concludes with Pam calming down, and Michael on his way over to see Pam's mother for their date.
At the beginning of the episode, Dwight congratulated Jim on his promotion by giving him a wooden mallard to keep on his desk. Jim immediately discovered that the mallard was actually a recording device that Dwight had planted to spy on him. Jim took the opportunity, despite Pam's dilemma, to prank Dwight. Jim made Dwight anxious after he played very loud opera music, rendering his listening device useless, during a private conversation with Andy. Eventually, Jim confronted Dwight and had him wash his car as a punishment. Dwight accepted the punishment, then revealed that the real listening device was in Jim's pen, which Dwight had cleverly planted earlier in the episode. Dwight then sat at Jim's desk to listen to all of Jim's conversations, leading us to believe that Dwight was about to spend 8 additional hours in the office.
This episode, though sort of weak, was not that bad. I liked the story progression, and the "B" story had glimpses of past greatness. Dwight and Jim going at each other is classic, though the material was a little shallow. I liked the way Jim started acting more and more like Michael as he assumed more responsibilities. As crazy as it sounds, I would say Michael's bit with Toby was the most unrealistic part of the whole episode. In all, I wouldn't say that I loved it, but I didn't hate it. + 3 Stars
Jokes
The comedy in this episode was not that bad. Jim, now a manager, has taken on some of Michael's qualities. Jim often changed his voice during an awkward situation, obviously a trait he picked up from Michael. Jim even yelled at Toby during a crisis situation. Pam had a pretty funny reaction to the news that Michael was now dating her mother, and the entire scene in the conference room was pretty funny. The final scene with Dwight listening to 8 hours of paper sales was also pretty funny. Creed was able to bring a smile to my face without even having a line, as he cried during the opera music. In all, it was forgettable, but not bad. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Don't call my mother your lover!" -Pam to Michael
Overall Score
5 Stars
THE VERDICT
I had a feeling going into this one that this wouldn't even be close. I was surprised, however, that "The Lover" kept the competition as close as it did. The unfortunate thing for the later episodes is that there is a lot of points to be won, and lost, in the "story" category. I feel that "necessary" episodes are way more worthy of high point scores than episodes that don't really drive the series. The later episodes, thus, are at a disadvantage because there are so few avenues left to explore. The Lover put up a good fight, but...
CONFLICT RESOLUTION is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 8-5
2.21 "Conflict Resolution"
Cold Open
Pam was organizing her wedding with Roy and Jim gave a confessional that proved he was less than happy with her making her wedding plans so public. Pam carried on with Phyllis in the break room, where it was discovered that Angela had not yet received her invitation. Being that Pam hated Angela at this point, Pam admitted that Angela was not invited to the wedding. This Open wasn't funny, but it does give foreshadowing for the episode, because it is Jim that complained about Pam. + 1 Star
Story
Conflict Resolution started with the staff having to take pictures for new security badges. Michael was in his office when he heard Oscar screaming. Upon investigation, he discovered that Oscar was complaining to Toby about a poster Angela was displaying at her desk. Toby instructed Michael that, typically, the disgruntled employee will just vent their anger, and the issue will eventually blow over. Obviously unhappy with this option, Michael decided to mediate their issue. Angela and Oscar exchanged unhappy words, but Michael eventually mediated the conflict successfully. Seeing how rewarding this was, Michael then physically obtained the rest of the complaints that Toby had recorded. Michael decided to read the complaints out loud, which caused even more conflict for the staff. Pam, who had reluctantly invited Angela to her wedding after she complained of not receiving an invitation in the cold open, was shocked to discover that someone (most likely Angela) complained that Pam used work time to plan her wedding. During the attempted mediating Michael was conducting, Dwight discovered that Toby had not sent his many complaints about Jim to corporate like he said he would. This drove Dwight to give Michael an ultimatum: either fire Jim, or Dwight would quit. Dwight, most likely to mock Jim, informed him that there was a sales opening in Stamford. Jim, being distraught over Pam's wedding and realizing how much of his life and time was being wasted in Scranton, actually considered the idea of a transfer. By the end of the episode, Pam was so mad at Angela that she was about to rescind her invitation. Jim, knowing the truth, intervened right as Pam was about to talk to Angela, and admitted to the complaint. Pam was visibly upset with Jim, and the closing scene showed us Jim at the corporate office applying for the position in Stamford.
This episode was very interesting. I didn't like the idea of security badges being the bridge to the conflict resolution plotline mainly because the badges were never worn in future episodes! The series progression was pretty pivotal, as "Conflict Resolution" sits right at the end of season two, which was when the PB&J love drama was at its highest. Finding out that Jim was considering a transfer, especially with a finale to follow, was also huge news. In all, the episode was very sub-par until the news of the possible transfer. Jim is really starting to get fed up with Pam and Roy's relationship, which would make this finale VERY anticipated! Just like "Beach Games", "Conflict Resolution" is a set-up episode that left us with some big cliffhangers. Will Pam marry Roy? Will Jim move to Stamford? These answers could, and will, change the entire series. I didn't like where it started, but loved where it finished. + 4 Stars
Jokes
This episode wasn't the funniest, as its main purpose was to build anticipation for the finale. The problem was that there was a lot of time at the beginning of the episode where there was room for some nice comedy. We did get more Creed than we usually do, which is awesome. Creed's "mug shot", his distaste for the "racist bathroom", and his distinct old man smell was all very entertaining. Michael had his usual moments of comical nonsense, but nothing that really stood out. There was a "that's what she said" moment that was pretty funny, but nothing to record in the history books. In all, it was very average. I suppose Dwight's mug shot bit was enough to save the comedy score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
The first 7-10 minutes of the episode was focused on the ID badges. This is disappointing because the badges are NEVER worn again!
Oscar agreed to make the poster into a shirt, and then wear the shirt...he never did either.
Best Quote
"What do you know about conflict resolution? Your answer to everything is 'get divorced'" -Michael to Toby
Angela: You already did me.
Michael: That's what she said.
Overall Score
8 Stars
6.6 "The Lover"
Cold Open
Jim and Pam return from their honeymoon and find that the office is exactly as they left it. Michael showed off his new character for improv class, which was incredibly dull, and Meredith complained that nothing was brought back for them as a present. This was out of her character, and not funny. Not funny at all.
Story
There were two main plotlines in this episode. The first was Jim and Pam dealing with the realization that Michael was now dating Pam's mother. The second was Dwight attempting to spy on Jim, which only persuaded Jim to prank Dwight. The first plotline was neither strong nor weak. The plotline is necessary, since we had to assume that Pam would eventually find out that Michael was dating her mother.
Expecting that there is nothing new to report, Jim was shocked when he found out that Michael was sleeping with Pam's mom. Jim pleaded with Michael to not tell Pam and to immediately break off the relationship. After a short conversation, Michael agreed to break it off. Unfortunately for her, Pam overheard a conversation between Michael and Erin regarding reservations for two at a nice restaurant. Pam asked Michael who the date was with, and was then horrified. Pam became insubordinate towards Michael and threw a tantrum in a meeting, which outed Michael's relationship with Pam's mother to the entire office. Although most of the staff sided with Pam, the general feeling was that Pam had overreacted. Believing that he had been a victim of a hostile work environment, Michael confided in Toby, which eventually led to them embracing. The term "conflict resolution" was ironically mentioned! Toby then attempted to mediate the situation, which ended in failure. Michael, fed up with Pam's insubordination, claimed that he was going to keep dating Pam's mom despite her. The plotline concludes with Pam calming down, and Michael on his way over to see Pam's mother for their date.
At the beginning of the episode, Dwight congratulated Jim on his promotion by giving him a wooden mallard to keep on his desk. Jim immediately discovered that the mallard was actually a recording device that Dwight had planted to spy on him. Jim took the opportunity, despite Pam's dilemma, to prank Dwight. Jim made Dwight anxious after he played very loud opera music, rendering his listening device useless, during a private conversation with Andy. Eventually, Jim confronted Dwight and had him wash his car as a punishment. Dwight accepted the punishment, then revealed that the real listening device was in Jim's pen, which Dwight had cleverly planted earlier in the episode. Dwight then sat at Jim's desk to listen to all of Jim's conversations, leading us to believe that Dwight was about to spend 8 additional hours in the office.
This episode, though sort of weak, was not that bad. I liked the story progression, and the "B" story had glimpses of past greatness. Dwight and Jim going at each other is classic, though the material was a little shallow. I liked the way Jim started acting more and more like Michael as he assumed more responsibilities. As crazy as it sounds, I would say Michael's bit with Toby was the most unrealistic part of the whole episode. In all, I wouldn't say that I loved it, but I didn't hate it. + 3 Stars
Jokes
The comedy in this episode was not that bad. Jim, now a manager, has taken on some of Michael's qualities. Jim often changed his voice during an awkward situation, obviously a trait he picked up from Michael. Jim even yelled at Toby during a crisis situation. Pam had a pretty funny reaction to the news that Michael was now dating her mother, and the entire scene in the conference room was pretty funny. The final scene with Dwight listening to 8 hours of paper sales was also pretty funny. Creed was able to bring a smile to my face without even having a line, as he cried during the opera music. In all, it was forgettable, but not bad. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
"Don't call my mother your lover!" -Pam to Michael
Overall Score
5 Stars
THE VERDICT
I had a feeling going into this one that this wouldn't even be close. I was surprised, however, that "The Lover" kept the competition as close as it did. The unfortunate thing for the later episodes is that there is a lot of points to be won, and lost, in the "story" category. I feel that "necessary" episodes are way more worthy of high point scores than episodes that don't really drive the series. The later episodes, thus, are at a disadvantage because there are so few avenues left to explore. The Lover put up a good fight, but...
CONFLICT RESOLUTION is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 8-5
Friday, January 28, 2011
Money vs. Baby Shower
This matchup pits two early-season episodes of season 4 and season 5 against each other. Both episodes, surprisingly, have a strong emphasis on Michael's relationship with Jan, though the episodes have completely different contexts because Michael is in a relationship with Jan in one of the episodes, and not in the other.
4.4 "Money"
Cold Open
Michael, because he is currently watching The Devil Wears Prada in his free time, treated Pam poorly by behaving like Meryl Streep's character does in the film. After Michael discovered that Maryl Streep was the "bad guy" in the movie, he apologized to Pam and made a subtle reference towards the movie Million Dollar Baby. Pam, realizing that Michael will probably begin behaving like the characters in that film, acknowledges the possibility that Michael may try to murder her. It really was played out too long, and wasn't really that funny. To make it worse, it had absolutely nothing to do with the episode.
Story
"Money" is yet another two-part episode that is centered around the debt that Jan is causing Michael by making a large number of expensive, unnecessary purchases. The "B" story deals with Jim and Pam visiting Dwight's beet farm, discovering that he is depressed over his break up with Angela, and ultimately helping him get over his depression. Darryl and Kelly's relationship, as well Andy attempting to court Angela, fill the rest of the episode.
In the very beginning of the episode it is made blatantly obvious that Michael is having a hard time controlling Jan spending his money. Jan explained some very unnecessary purchases she was planning on making, and then scolded Michael when he suggested not making them. Instead of confronting Jan and explaining her spending problems, Michael decided to take on another job at a call center selling diet pills. Much like the office he works at during the day, many of the employees get along great, including Michael, but dislike their manager. To make matters worse, Jan insisted in trading in both of their cars in order to purchase a Porsche, which was well out of Michael's price range. After working a long night at the call center, Michael showed up restless and blew off a presentation he was supposed to have prepared for Ryan. After Ryan found out that Michael didn't do the presentation because he was too tired, he forced Michael to quit his job at the call center. Now without the additional income, Michael became desperate and began asking his employees for advice. After a sit down with Oscar, Michael finally confronted Jan, who ultimately blamed Michael for the debt. In response to Jan's outburst, Michael ran out of the office and hoped onto a motionless train. Jan rushed to Michael's side and finally came to her senses and agreed to help work things out. The couple left the train station holding hands.
At the beginning of the episode, Jim overheard a phone conversation Dwight was having with a potential guest at his bed and breakfast. Convinced that this was a good chance to mock him, Jim and Pam booked a night at Dwight's bed and breakfast. Upon arrival, Jim and Pam noticed that Dwight's beet farm was more impressive than they had originally thought. Dwight explained and demonstrated the many faces of beet farming, and we got to see an extensive view of Dwight's home. Late at night, however, Jim woke up to the sound of Dwight crying in his room while holding a small statue he had stolen from Angela. The next day at work, Jim and Pam tried to cheer Dwight up by writing an overly positive review of his beet farm on TripAdvisor.com, which Dwight claimed was the "life blood of agrotourism". After this failed to cheer Dwight up, Jim followed Dwight into the stairway, where they shared a very touching moment. Jim compared Dwight's situation to his with Pam in the past, and this brought Dwight to tears. Dwight leaned over to hug Jim, but then realized that Jim had walked away after giving his speech. Dwight, inspired by Jim's speech, returned to the office good as new.
Darryl and Kelly also had a minor role in this episode. Kelly invited Darryl to Ryan's presentation in order to get Ryan jealous. Realizing that Kelly is only with him to make Ryan jealous, Darryl informed Kelly that perhaps their relationship is over.
Also, Andy was being very open about wanting to ask Angela on a date. Andy asked Pam to hook them up, and after Pam was indifferent, Andy decided to take matters into his own hands by capturing a cat to give to Angela as a gift. Ironically, the cat Andy caught for Angela is most likely the same cat that Dwight had captured for her earlier in the series. Andy claimed that he found the cat in about the same area Dwight had found his cat earlier in the series. Also, the cat looked strikingly similar to the cat Dwight had offered Angela.
I don't know how I feel about this episode. For a two-part episode, there wasn't really a whole lot of story progression. Michael and Jan's debt was the focal point of the episode, and nothing ever got resolved. All we know from watching this episode is that Jan agrees to work with Michael on the debt. As far as Dwight's relationship with Angela, the only progress we made was that Dwight is beginning to get over Angela. The only story progression that would warrant a "show me more" feeling is Angela agreeing to a date with Andy, which is hardly worth a two-part episode. Two-part episodes, in my opinion, should be saved for weddings, finales, holidays and other SIGNIFICANT moments. I just don't see how any of this was meaningful enough for the writers to make it twice as long. I feel like this was a two-part episode for the sake of being longer, which takes away the significance of other, more meaningful, two-part episodes. + 2 Stars
Jokes
Another reason I was less than impressed with this episode was its lack of genuinely funny jokes. There was really no moments that stood out. Although I enjoyed the beet farm sequences, I felt that there were so many missed opportunities for humor. Jim and Pam stay overnight at Dwight's farm and all you have for me is Mose throwing poop on Dwight? Also, I am always disappointed when Creed doesn't get a small bit. The comedic highlight of the episode, unfortunately, was the discussion the staff had concerning the words "who" and "whom" and when each word is used. It was finally discovered that only Pam and Toby actually knew how to use each word, and Ryan ending the conversation by determining that he didn't care. It really wasn't a very funny episode. Michael screaming the word "bankruptcy" wasn't too bad, either. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
When Jim and Pam arrived at Dwight's farm, Dwight explained that the farm was "wireless", meaning there was no power in the building, but a lamp was on in the living room during the initial check-in, which obviously contradicted Dwight's claim. Although this is an obvious mistake, it is not a mistake in writing, but a mistake in stage props. No deductions.
Best Quote
Jim: What do you got goin' on tonight?
Michael: You wouldn't understand. It's a secret.
Jim: I wouldn't understand, or it's a secret?
Pam: You wouldn't understand, Jim. It's a secret.
"The best way to start is to hit start, and up comes the tool bar...that's what she said" -Michael
"I declare BANKRUPTCY!" -Michael
Overall Score
4 Stars
5.3 "Baby Shower"
Cold Open
Wow, where to start! First, this Cold Open was hilarious! Dwight carried a watermelon around under his shirt and pretended to be Jan going into labor to help Michael practice for the occasion. When Dwight started to go into "labor", Michael verbally went through how he would handle the situation. After Dwight advised Michael to "mark" the new born with a sharpie, Dwight delivered the watermelon, which slipped right through Michael's hands and smashed on the floor. The watermelon slipped so easily because Dwight had coated it with butter, to make it more comparable to a new born baby. After this was over, Michael was eating the smashed watermelon. This is what I am talking about! A FUNNY Cold Open that actually has to do with the episode! Bravo! One of the best Cold Opens of the ENTIRE SERIES! + 2 Stars
Story
The centerpiece of this episode is the baby shower that Michael and the PPC are planning for Jan's baby. The "B" story shows us the frustrations Jim and Pam are having while Pam is away in New York at art school. Also, Dwight "tests" Jan's $1,200 stroller for durability.
Although the Cold Open is one of the best, the episode really went downhill from there. It's main focus is on the baby shower Michael is planning for Jan. Before Jan arrived, Michael explained to Holly that he was going to be especially mean to her because Jan was so fat (being pregnant) and that Holly was the most beautiful woman in the office. Holly was pleased that Michael acknowledged her beauty, but grew uneasy as Michael became meaner and meaner. When Jan arrived, it was surprising to see that her baby had already been born. This upset Michael, who know had second thoughts on how much he cared about Jan's baby. Michael explained to the cameras that he didn't feel a strong connection with Jan's baby, which led him to believe that it wasn't his place to be the father figure in Astrid's life. After asking Darryl's advice, Michael realized once and for all that Astrid was not his daughter. Jan, a smart woman who saw right through Michael, realized that he was obviously interested in Holly and requested that he refrain from dating her as she left the office. Michael was stunned by this, and walked back into the office and gave Holly a huge hug and asked her out to dinner. Michael later explained that while he did not feel a connection between himself and Astrid, he did feel one between himself and Holly. This marks the first official "ask out" in Michael and Holly's relationship.
In other news, Jim and Pam were having difficulty staying in touch while Pam was away in New York. Jim and Pam exchanged phone calls that led to early hang ups because the other was busy with a task. In the end, Jim and Pam left each other similar voicemails detailing their days and assuring the other that the day was just another day and that everything would be alright. They both ended their voicemails with "I miss you".
On a more hilarious note, Dwight decided to test Jan's expensive stroller. Dwight threw the stroller into a fence, down into a ditch, and even ran it over with his car. Dwight decided to test out the stroller after learning of its high price. Dwight, obviously knowing that the stroller is ruined, placed the stroller in Jan's trunk as she was leaving to avoid scrutiny from Jan.
I don't really know what to think about this. I mean, there was interesting story progression, but the entire Jim and Pam plotline was just so boring. I think it would have been a much better move to have just not had Pam in the episode, or maybe just cut all the footage except for the final voicemails. Jim could have been used in this episode in so many different ways, particularly in Dwight's plotline with the stroller. It was significant, however, that Jan finally had her baby. Also, it was ever more significant that Michael and Holly are now officially going on a date. This doesn't have the same magical feel as when Jim and Pam had their first special moments, but the fact that this is Michael's first romantic gesture towards who we assume is his soul mate makes the episode significant. Dwight's plotline was funny but pretty pointless. I can't say how bored I was with Jim and Pam's plot. + 3 Stars
Jokes
This episode wasn't very funny at all. The comedic highlight was Dwight running over the stroller with his car. The only problem is that I felt like this was too over-the-top, even for Dwight. It was funny, but mindless. Michael had a good joke in thinking that the babies name was pronounced "ass-turd", and Angela's baby picture explained a lot about how she acts, but other than that there wasn't really anything to brag about. Of course, I was again upset that Creed didn't have his usual 45-second bit. A Creed moment is essential in a high humor score. No Creed, no stars is what I always say! Any episode that focuses a lot on Jan probably won't be very funny. Jan is a very weak and unlikeable character who doesn't bring a lot to the table...and this episode was no exception. I was very disappointing after such a strong start with the Cold Open. + 1 Star
Mistakes
While Michael is holding Astrid, it is obvious that Astrid is a doll and not a real baby. While it is probably a good idea to not use a real baby for safety, the camera angles could have done a better job of hiding the plastic doll.
Best Quote
"We all came into this room and gave you a golden shower, well ya know what, where's my golden shower, Phyllis?" -Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
I will admit that neither of these episodes were outstanding. One of the episodes, however, did have a very significant piece of Office history. Michael's first romantic moment with Holly will be remembered as the most significant moment of Michael's life thus far in the series. To me, "Money" was a mess. Too much time was spent on an episode that didn't tell us anything. "Baby Shower" wasn't exactly great, either. Like I said many times before, I pretty much wanted to fast forward the DVD when Jim or Pam were speaking, which is extremely unusual. This is one of those matchups where the winner will only move on because its opponent was especially weak. There are episodes that have already been eliminated that would easily defeat these two episodes ("Employee Transfer" and "Beach Games" come to mind). Oh well, it isn't a perfect system. I do predict, however, that the winning episode will be swiftly eliminated in the next round. With that said...
BABY SHOWER is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 7-4.
4.4 "Money"
Cold Open
Michael, because he is currently watching The Devil Wears Prada in his free time, treated Pam poorly by behaving like Meryl Streep's character does in the film. After Michael discovered that Maryl Streep was the "bad guy" in the movie, he apologized to Pam and made a subtle reference towards the movie Million Dollar Baby. Pam, realizing that Michael will probably begin behaving like the characters in that film, acknowledges the possibility that Michael may try to murder her. It really was played out too long, and wasn't really that funny. To make it worse, it had absolutely nothing to do with the episode.
Story
"Money" is yet another two-part episode that is centered around the debt that Jan is causing Michael by making a large number of expensive, unnecessary purchases. The "B" story deals with Jim and Pam visiting Dwight's beet farm, discovering that he is depressed over his break up with Angela, and ultimately helping him get over his depression. Darryl and Kelly's relationship, as well Andy attempting to court Angela, fill the rest of the episode.
In the very beginning of the episode it is made blatantly obvious that Michael is having a hard time controlling Jan spending his money. Jan explained some very unnecessary purchases she was planning on making, and then scolded Michael when he suggested not making them. Instead of confronting Jan and explaining her spending problems, Michael decided to take on another job at a call center selling diet pills. Much like the office he works at during the day, many of the employees get along great, including Michael, but dislike their manager. To make matters worse, Jan insisted in trading in both of their cars in order to purchase a Porsche, which was well out of Michael's price range. After working a long night at the call center, Michael showed up restless and blew off a presentation he was supposed to have prepared for Ryan. After Ryan found out that Michael didn't do the presentation because he was too tired, he forced Michael to quit his job at the call center. Now without the additional income, Michael became desperate and began asking his employees for advice. After a sit down with Oscar, Michael finally confronted Jan, who ultimately blamed Michael for the debt. In response to Jan's outburst, Michael ran out of the office and hoped onto a motionless train. Jan rushed to Michael's side and finally came to her senses and agreed to help work things out. The couple left the train station holding hands.
At the beginning of the episode, Jim overheard a phone conversation Dwight was having with a potential guest at his bed and breakfast. Convinced that this was a good chance to mock him, Jim and Pam booked a night at Dwight's bed and breakfast. Upon arrival, Jim and Pam noticed that Dwight's beet farm was more impressive than they had originally thought. Dwight explained and demonstrated the many faces of beet farming, and we got to see an extensive view of Dwight's home. Late at night, however, Jim woke up to the sound of Dwight crying in his room while holding a small statue he had stolen from Angela. The next day at work, Jim and Pam tried to cheer Dwight up by writing an overly positive review of his beet farm on TripAdvisor.com, which Dwight claimed was the "life blood of agrotourism". After this failed to cheer Dwight up, Jim followed Dwight into the stairway, where they shared a very touching moment. Jim compared Dwight's situation to his with Pam in the past, and this brought Dwight to tears. Dwight leaned over to hug Jim, but then realized that Jim had walked away after giving his speech. Dwight, inspired by Jim's speech, returned to the office good as new.
Darryl and Kelly also had a minor role in this episode. Kelly invited Darryl to Ryan's presentation in order to get Ryan jealous. Realizing that Kelly is only with him to make Ryan jealous, Darryl informed Kelly that perhaps their relationship is over.
Also, Andy was being very open about wanting to ask Angela on a date. Andy asked Pam to hook them up, and after Pam was indifferent, Andy decided to take matters into his own hands by capturing a cat to give to Angela as a gift. Ironically, the cat Andy caught for Angela is most likely the same cat that Dwight had captured for her earlier in the series. Andy claimed that he found the cat in about the same area Dwight had found his cat earlier in the series. Also, the cat looked strikingly similar to the cat Dwight had offered Angela.
I don't know how I feel about this episode. For a two-part episode, there wasn't really a whole lot of story progression. Michael and Jan's debt was the focal point of the episode, and nothing ever got resolved. All we know from watching this episode is that Jan agrees to work with Michael on the debt. As far as Dwight's relationship with Angela, the only progress we made was that Dwight is beginning to get over Angela. The only story progression that would warrant a "show me more" feeling is Angela agreeing to a date with Andy, which is hardly worth a two-part episode. Two-part episodes, in my opinion, should be saved for weddings, finales, holidays and other SIGNIFICANT moments. I just don't see how any of this was meaningful enough for the writers to make it twice as long. I feel like this was a two-part episode for the sake of being longer, which takes away the significance of other, more meaningful, two-part episodes. + 2 Stars
Jokes
Another reason I was less than impressed with this episode was its lack of genuinely funny jokes. There was really no moments that stood out. Although I enjoyed the beet farm sequences, I felt that there were so many missed opportunities for humor. Jim and Pam stay overnight at Dwight's farm and all you have for me is Mose throwing poop on Dwight? Also, I am always disappointed when Creed doesn't get a small bit. The comedic highlight of the episode, unfortunately, was the discussion the staff had concerning the words "who" and "whom" and when each word is used. It was finally discovered that only Pam and Toby actually knew how to use each word, and Ryan ending the conversation by determining that he didn't care. It really wasn't a very funny episode. Michael screaming the word "bankruptcy" wasn't too bad, either. + 2 Stars
Mistakes
When Jim and Pam arrived at Dwight's farm, Dwight explained that the farm was "wireless", meaning there was no power in the building, but a lamp was on in the living room during the initial check-in, which obviously contradicted Dwight's claim. Although this is an obvious mistake, it is not a mistake in writing, but a mistake in stage props. No deductions.
Best Quote
Jim: What do you got goin' on tonight?
Michael: You wouldn't understand. It's a secret.
Jim: I wouldn't understand, or it's a secret?
Pam: You wouldn't understand, Jim. It's a secret.
"The best way to start is to hit start, and up comes the tool bar...that's what she said" -Michael
"I declare BANKRUPTCY!" -Michael
Overall Score
4 Stars
5.3 "Baby Shower"
Cold Open
Wow, where to start! First, this Cold Open was hilarious! Dwight carried a watermelon around under his shirt and pretended to be Jan going into labor to help Michael practice for the occasion. When Dwight started to go into "labor", Michael verbally went through how he would handle the situation. After Dwight advised Michael to "mark" the new born with a sharpie, Dwight delivered the watermelon, which slipped right through Michael's hands and smashed on the floor. The watermelon slipped so easily because Dwight had coated it with butter, to make it more comparable to a new born baby. After this was over, Michael was eating the smashed watermelon. This is what I am talking about! A FUNNY Cold Open that actually has to do with the episode! Bravo! One of the best Cold Opens of the ENTIRE SERIES! + 2 Stars
Story
The centerpiece of this episode is the baby shower that Michael and the PPC are planning for Jan's baby. The "B" story shows us the frustrations Jim and Pam are having while Pam is away in New York at art school. Also, Dwight "tests" Jan's $1,200 stroller for durability.
Although the Cold Open is one of the best, the episode really went downhill from there. It's main focus is on the baby shower Michael is planning for Jan. Before Jan arrived, Michael explained to Holly that he was going to be especially mean to her because Jan was so fat (being pregnant) and that Holly was the most beautiful woman in the office. Holly was pleased that Michael acknowledged her beauty, but grew uneasy as Michael became meaner and meaner. When Jan arrived, it was surprising to see that her baby had already been born. This upset Michael, who know had second thoughts on how much he cared about Jan's baby. Michael explained to the cameras that he didn't feel a strong connection with Jan's baby, which led him to believe that it wasn't his place to be the father figure in Astrid's life. After asking Darryl's advice, Michael realized once and for all that Astrid was not his daughter. Jan, a smart woman who saw right through Michael, realized that he was obviously interested in Holly and requested that he refrain from dating her as she left the office. Michael was stunned by this, and walked back into the office and gave Holly a huge hug and asked her out to dinner. Michael later explained that while he did not feel a connection between himself and Astrid, he did feel one between himself and Holly. This marks the first official "ask out" in Michael and Holly's relationship.
In other news, Jim and Pam were having difficulty staying in touch while Pam was away in New York. Jim and Pam exchanged phone calls that led to early hang ups because the other was busy with a task. In the end, Jim and Pam left each other similar voicemails detailing their days and assuring the other that the day was just another day and that everything would be alright. They both ended their voicemails with "I miss you".
On a more hilarious note, Dwight decided to test Jan's expensive stroller. Dwight threw the stroller into a fence, down into a ditch, and even ran it over with his car. Dwight decided to test out the stroller after learning of its high price. Dwight, obviously knowing that the stroller is ruined, placed the stroller in Jan's trunk as she was leaving to avoid scrutiny from Jan.
I don't really know what to think about this. I mean, there was interesting story progression, but the entire Jim and Pam plotline was just so boring. I think it would have been a much better move to have just not had Pam in the episode, or maybe just cut all the footage except for the final voicemails. Jim could have been used in this episode in so many different ways, particularly in Dwight's plotline with the stroller. It was significant, however, that Jan finally had her baby. Also, it was ever more significant that Michael and Holly are now officially going on a date. This doesn't have the same magical feel as when Jim and Pam had their first special moments, but the fact that this is Michael's first romantic gesture towards who we assume is his soul mate makes the episode significant. Dwight's plotline was funny but pretty pointless. I can't say how bored I was with Jim and Pam's plot. + 3 Stars
Jokes
This episode wasn't very funny at all. The comedic highlight was Dwight running over the stroller with his car. The only problem is that I felt like this was too over-the-top, even for Dwight. It was funny, but mindless. Michael had a good joke in thinking that the babies name was pronounced "ass-turd", and Angela's baby picture explained a lot about how she acts, but other than that there wasn't really anything to brag about. Of course, I was again upset that Creed didn't have his usual 45-second bit. A Creed moment is essential in a high humor score. No Creed, no stars is what I always say! Any episode that focuses a lot on Jan probably won't be very funny. Jan is a very weak and unlikeable character who doesn't bring a lot to the table...and this episode was no exception. I was very disappointing after such a strong start with the Cold Open. + 1 Star
Mistakes
While Michael is holding Astrid, it is obvious that Astrid is a doll and not a real baby. While it is probably a good idea to not use a real baby for safety, the camera angles could have done a better job of hiding the plastic doll.
Best Quote
"We all came into this room and gave you a golden shower, well ya know what, where's my golden shower, Phyllis?" -Michael
Overall Score
7 Stars
THE VERDICT
I will admit that neither of these episodes were outstanding. One of the episodes, however, did have a very significant piece of Office history. Michael's first romantic moment with Holly will be remembered as the most significant moment of Michael's life thus far in the series. To me, "Money" was a mess. Too much time was spent on an episode that didn't tell us anything. "Baby Shower" wasn't exactly great, either. Like I said many times before, I pretty much wanted to fast forward the DVD when Jim or Pam were speaking, which is extremely unusual. This is one of those matchups where the winner will only move on because its opponent was especially weak. There are episodes that have already been eliminated that would easily defeat these two episodes ("Employee Transfer" and "Beach Games" come to mind). Oh well, it isn't a perfect system. I do predict, however, that the winning episode will be swiftly eliminated in the next round. With that said...
BABY SHOWER is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 7-4.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Beach Games vs. Goodbye, Toby
Here we have two VERY strong episodes from the first 4 seasons. Beach Games is the second to last episode of season 3, while Goodbye, Toby is the season finale of season 4. Because many Office fanatics believe that The Office drastically decreased in quality after season 4, Goodbye, Toby could be considered the last of the "oldies".
3.22 "Beach Games"
Cold Open
Michael got really sick after Dwight gave him a lot of paper work that needed done, obviously faking to get out of work. David Wallace then called Michael and asked him to interview for a job at corporate. It wasn't really funny, but the entire episode deals with Michael deciding on who would replace him if he got the corporate job. + 1 Star
Story
The interesting thing behind this episode is that there is only 1 plotline. This is the first time I encountered an episode with only one plotline. Basically, Michael is using a beach day in order to evaluate possible candidates for his job, as he assumed he would get the corporate job David Wallace asked him to apply for. Michael took his staff, minus Toby, to the beach to play games. While the staff thought that they were simply going for a fun day at the beach, Michael was actually judging all of them because he could not decide who to recommend to take over his job, assuming he will get the corporate job. Michael then forced the staff to play "funtivities" in the role of "Survivor". While Michael thought that the staff would really enjoy his games, most of the workers just goofed around. Pam was not allowed to play in the games because Michael wanted her to take notes to help him decide who is best fit for his job. Michael decided to let everyone know that he would recommend the winner, which turned everyone into fierce competitors. Dwight then conspired with Angela to sabotage Andy, as it was clear that Andy was the frontrunner in the competition. After the sumo wrestling competition, Andy fell into the water still wearing his sumo star and floated away in the lake. It was revealed that Jim and Karen are also candidates for the corporate job. Michael then presented that the last challenge would be to walk across burning hot coals. Pam was the only one who wanted to walk across the coals, but Michael wouldn't let her. Michael was then persuaded by Jim to walk across himself, but chickened-out after hyping it up for a long time. Dwight then volunteered to walk across the coals, and stopped and stood on the coals and refused to get off the coals until Michael awarded him the job. Dwight eventually fell to the ground and was dragged off the coals. Pam then walked across the coals while no one was looking, which was very fulfilling to her. She then confronted her coworkers, specifically Jim, asking why no one showed up to her art show. She explained to Jim that she called her wedding off because of him, which obviously made everyone uncomfortable. The episode ended with Michael explaining that what she said was amazing, but wanted someone with a background in sales.
This episode was effective in setting up the season finale with the emergence of the "new corporate opening" that we found out that Karen, Jim, and Michael are all applying for. Given these facts, we must assume that Karen, Michael, or Jim will be leaving the office. As significant as this is, it is not as significant as Pam opening up to Jim, and the rest of the office, and making her feelings of loneliness public. The episode leaves us on a cliffhanger because we now know that Jim could potentially be leaving the office, and Pam had just poured her heart out to him. + 4 Stars
Jokes
I remember this episode being funnier, but after I rewatched it, I found that the humor wasn't all that impressive. Creed, as usual, entertained us with his mastery of fishing, and Angela had a funny moment rooting on Dwight in the sumo wrestling competition. The comedic highlight of the episode was Andy, dressed in a large sumo outfit, falling into the lake and floating away, seemingly left in the lake overnight. There was a nice moment when the entire staff sang songs on the bus, and I was pleased that Stanley and Angela joined in. I was somewhat disappointed that Michael and Dwight didn't really perform up to their normal hilarious standards, but Stanley and Andy stepped it up to save the humor score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"Go tell them I'm floating away, obviously!" -Andy, to Angela, after Angela asks what she should do about Andy falling into the lake
Here we have two VERY strong episodes from the first 4 seasons. Beach Games is the second to last episode of season 3, while Goodbye, Toby is the season finale of season 4. Because many Office fanatics believe that The Office drastically decreased in quality after season 4, Goodbye, Toby could be considered the last of the "oldies".
3.22 "Beach Games"
Cold Open
Michael got really sick after Dwight gave him a lot of paper work that needed done, obviously faking to get out of work. David Wallace then called Michael and asked him to interview for a job at corporate. It wasn't really funny, but the entire episode deals with Michael deciding on who would replace him if he got the corporate job. + 1 Star
Story
The interesting thing behind this episode is that there is only 1 plotline. This is the first time I encountered an episode with only one plotline. Basically, Michael is using a beach day in order to evaluate possible candidates for his job, as he assumed he would get the corporate job David Wallace asked him to apply for. Michael took his staff, minus Toby, to the beach to play games. While the staff thought that they were simply going for a fun day at the beach, Michael was actually judging all of them because he could not decide who to recommend to take over his job, assuming he will get the corporate job. Michael then forced the staff to play "funtivities" in the role of "Survivor". While Michael thought that the staff would really enjoy his games, most of the workers just goofed around. Pam was not allowed to play in the games because Michael wanted her to take notes to help him decide who is best fit for his job. Michael decided to let everyone know that he would recommend the winner, which turned everyone into fierce competitors. Dwight then conspired with Angela to sabotage Andy, as it was clear that Andy was the frontrunner in the competition. After the sumo wrestling competition, Andy fell into the water still wearing his sumo star and floated away in the lake. It was revealed that Jim and Karen are also candidates for the corporate job. Michael then presented that the last challenge would be to walk across burning hot coals. Pam was the only one who wanted to walk across the coals, but Michael wouldn't let her. Michael was then persuaded by Jim to walk across himself, but chickened-out after hyping it up for a long time. Dwight then volunteered to walk across the coals, and stopped and stood on the coals and refused to get off the coals until Michael awarded him the job. Dwight eventually fell to the ground and was dragged off the coals. Pam then walked across the coals while no one was looking, which was very fulfilling to her. She then confronted her coworkers, specifically Jim, asking why no one showed up to her art show. She explained to Jim that she called her wedding off because of him, which obviously made everyone uncomfortable. The episode ended with Michael explaining that what she said was amazing, but wanted someone with a background in sales.
This episode was effective in setting up the season finale with the emergence of the "new corporate opening" that we found out that Karen, Jim, and Michael are all applying for. Given these facts, we must assume that either Karen, Michael, or Jim will be leaving the office. As significant as this is, it is not as significant as Pam opening up to Jim, and the rest of the office, and making her feelings of loneliness public. The episode leaves us on a cliffhanger because we now know that Jim could potentially be leaving the office, and Pam had just poured her heart out to him. + 4 Stars
Jokes
I remember this episode being funnier, but after I rewatched it, I found that the humor wasn't all that impressive. Creed, as usual, entertained us with his mastery of fishing, and Angela had a funny moment rooting on Dwight in the sumo wrestling competition. The comedic highlight of the episode was Andy, dressed in a large sumo outfit, falling into the lake and floating away, seemingly left in the lake overnight. There was a nice moment when the entire staff sang songs on the bus, and I was pleased that Stanley and Angela joined in. I was somewhat disappointed that Michael and Dwight didn't really perform up to the their normal hilarious standards, but Stanley and Andy stepped it up to save the humor score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"Go tell them I'm floating away, obviously!" -Andy, to Angela, after Angela asks what she should do about Andy falling into the lake
Overal Score
8 Stars
4.14 "Goodbye, Toby"
Cold Open
The Open showed us Jim playing a prank on Dwight, classic. Jim forwarded Dwight's cell phone calls to Jim's headset. After Dwight tried to reprogram his cell phone to his work phone, he found out that Jim had also reprogrammed that phone to his ear pierce. Dwight then proceeded to smash his cell phone against his desk. Very funny, but had nothing to do with the episode. + 1 Star
Story
Goodbye, Toby is a two-part episode that was a very significant part of The Office. It was Toby's last day at the office, a new character named Holly was introduced, Jan is pregnant, Pam would soon be leaving to live in New York, Andy and Angela got engaged, Ryan had been arrested for fraud, and Phyllis discovered that Dwight and Angela were having an affair. This episode was the season finale of season 4, which is widely accepted as the last episode before a severe drop off in the show's quality. Besides planning for the huge party, there weren't a lot of other plotlines. We knew that Jim was planning to propose to Pam, but there wasn't enough footage to consider this a "B" story. Michael's growing relationship with Holly became the counter plotline to Toby's actual party, but the two were intertwined well enough to hide the fact that there were two stories happening at the same time.
In the beginning, Michael was so excited about his nemesis Toby leaving for Costa Rica, that he planned a humongous party to celebrate his departure. Part of Toby's last day was to train the new HR rep, Holly. Michael instantly despised Holly, but was pleasantly surprised that she was nothing like Toby. This, for Michael, immediately turned into a love interest, which Holly seemed to respond positively towards. As an office prank, Dwight convinced Holly that Kevin was retarded. Holly showed special interest in Kevin, which led Kevin to believe that Holly was interested in him. When Michael gave Toby a rock for his going away present, he was fooled into offering him his watch in order to save his image in front of Holly. Michael's ability to give his watch away really showed his feelings for Holly, given his level of hatred towards Toby. Michael's affection towards Holly grew deeper after Holly consoled him after Michael discovered that Ryan was arrested for fraud. During the party, it was obvious that Holly was interested in Michael. Following Jim's advice, Michael keeps distance between him and Holly, which made Holly feel that Michael was not interested in her. Michael was then called to the grocery store by Kevin, and found out that his ex-girlfriend, Jan, was pregnant. Although Michael was not the father of Jan's baby, Michael was still convinced that he was, in some way, going to be a father. This plotline closed with Holly being disappointed that Michael did not want to go out with her for desert, which obviously hinted towards a love affair in the future.
After Jim found out that Pam had been accepted into a prestigious art school in New York, Michael asked him for advice on courting Holly. During Jim's explanation, he realized that a large percentage of his relationship with Pam had started right there in the office. Jim then offered to pay for fireworks for the party, and admitted to the cameras his intent to propose to Pam during the party. Right as Jim started his proposal, Andy upstaged him by publicly proposing to Angela. Angela, reluctantly, accepted. It was later discovered by Phyllis that Dwight and Angela were having an affair.
In all, I loved how this episode worked. There was so much story progression and interesting twists that really left me satisfied. This is exactly what you want in a finale episode; the ability to create cliffhanger moments that the audience can't wait to see played out in full. There are several HUGE story lines to look forward to in the next season, as "Goodbye, Toby" completely threw The Office upside down. I loved it. + 5 Stars
Jokes
While the story in this episode was nothing short of amazing, the humor actually left me wanting more. Creed, AGAIN, pulled through with an excellent bit. I am amazed at how effective Creed is. I feel that if his character was used any more than it is, Creed would be too much. Michael did have some funny one liners while dealing with Toby and Jan, and Dwight convincing Holly that Kevin was retarded was amazing. Toby had a funny/awkward yell after requesting a picture with Pam, but I was disappointed in Andy and Dwight. Dwight was good, but he didn't perform as well as he needed to in a finale. Andy was basically not in the episode until he proposed to Angela. The highlight of the episode was Michael singing "Goodbye, Toby", where it was completely obvious that this was one of the best days of Michael's life.
The jokes were good, don't get me wrong, but I was expecting more for a finale episode. Being that this episode was a two-parter, I felt that something could have been worked out to include Andy more. While I was blown away by the actual story, the humor was about average. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
Michael claims that his grandmother sends him "9-10 birthday checks" per year because she is starting to go crazy. In season 5, Michael visits his grandmother and she is perfectly fine. It is possible he is talking about his other grandma, but this is unlikely. This is not a mistake for this episode, because Michael's grandmother had not yet been mentioned or seen in an earlier episode. This is a mistake in the season 5 episode, however.
While Jim was talking to Michael about Holly, he claimed that the first place he and Pam had kissed was "right outside". Jim and Pam's first kiss was at Chili's in the episode "The Dundies". It is possible that Jim is referring to their first "true kiss" because Pam was very drunk during their kiss at Chili's. Nonetheless, their first kiss was not at the office.- 1 Star
Andy introduces his father as Andrew Bernard, though in a later episode he explains how his name was found in a baby book and that his father's name is not Andrew. Again, this is not a mistake in this episode, but in the future episode where the writers suddenly forgot that they had already introduced Andy's dad as "Andrew".
Best Quotes
"Toby has been cruisin' for a bruisin' for 12 years, and I am now his cruise director. And my name is Captain Bruisin'." Michael
"You cheated on me? When I specifically asked you not to?" -Michael to Jan
Overall Score
8 Stars
THE VERDICT
Again, this is a matchup of two very important episodes of The Office. Goodbye Toby is a two part episode, and a finale, which is a big advantage. Goodbye, Toby, also, had a clear mistake in story and was also the source for other mistakes down the road. If there is one thing I hate, it is when the writers goof up and include something that is impossible to happen. Beach Games was very, very good. The problem was that Beach Games was a set up episode, while Goodbye, Toby was an episode that delivered. Weighing the pros and cons, I have determined that...
GOODBYE, TOBY is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 8-8.
3.22 "Beach Games"
Cold Open
Michael got really sick after Dwight gave him a lot of paper work that needed done, obviously faking to get out of work. David Wallace then called Michael and asked him to interview for a job at corporate. It wasn't really funny, but the entire episode deals with Michael deciding on who would replace him if he got the corporate job. + 1 Star
Story
The interesting thing behind this episode is that there is only 1 plotline. This is the first time I encountered an episode with only one plotline. Basically, Michael is using a beach day in order to evaluate possible candidates for his job, as he assumed he would get the corporate job David Wallace asked him to apply for. Michael took his staff, minus Toby, to the beach to play games. While the staff thought that they were simply going for a fun day at the beach, Michael was actually judging all of them because he could not decide who to recommend to take over his job, assuming he will get the corporate job. Michael then forced the staff to play "funtivities" in the role of "Survivor". While Michael thought that the staff would really enjoy his games, most of the workers just goofed around. Pam was not allowed to play in the games because Michael wanted her to take notes to help him decide who is best fit for his job. Michael decided to let everyone know that he would recommend the winner, which turned everyone into fierce competitors. Dwight then conspired with Angela to sabotage Andy, as it was clear that Andy was the frontrunner in the competition. After the sumo wrestling competition, Andy fell into the water still wearing his sumo star and floated away in the lake. It was revealed that Jim and Karen are also candidates for the corporate job. Michael then presented that the last challenge would be to walk across burning hot coals. Pam was the only one who wanted to walk across the coals, but Michael wouldn't let her. Michael was then persuaded by Jim to walk across himself, but chickened-out after hyping it up for a long time. Dwight then volunteered to walk across the coals, and stopped and stood on the coals and refused to get off the coals until Michael awarded him the job. Dwight eventually fell to the ground and was dragged off the coals. Pam then walked across the coals while no one was looking, which was very fulfilling to her. She then confronted her coworkers, specifically Jim, asking why no one showed up to her art show. She explained to Jim that she called her wedding off because of him, which obviously made everyone uncomfortable. The episode ended with Michael explaining that what she said was amazing, but wanted someone with a background in sales.
This episode was effective in setting up the season finale with the emergence of the "new corporate opening" that we found out that Karen, Jim, and Michael are all applying for. Given these facts, we must assume that Karen, Michael, or Jim will be leaving the office. As significant as this is, it is not as significant as Pam opening up to Jim, and the rest of the office, and making her feelings of loneliness public. The episode leaves us on a cliffhanger because we now know that Jim could potentially be leaving the office, and Pam had just poured her heart out to him. + 4 Stars
Jokes
I remember this episode being funnier, but after I rewatched it, I found that the humor wasn't all that impressive. Creed, as usual, entertained us with his mastery of fishing, and Angela had a funny moment rooting on Dwight in the sumo wrestling competition. The comedic highlight of the episode was Andy, dressed in a large sumo outfit, falling into the lake and floating away, seemingly left in the lake overnight. There was a nice moment when the entire staff sang songs on the bus, and I was pleased that Stanley and Angela joined in. I was somewhat disappointed that Michael and Dwight didn't really perform up to their normal hilarious standards, but Stanley and Andy stepped it up to save the humor score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"Go tell them I'm floating away, obviously!" -Andy, to Angela, after Angela asks what she should do about Andy falling into the lake
Here we have two VERY strong episodes from the first 4 seasons. Beach Games is the second to last episode of season 3, while Goodbye, Toby is the season finale of season 4. Because many Office fanatics believe that The Office drastically decreased in quality after season 4, Goodbye, Toby could be considered the last of the "oldies".
3.22 "Beach Games"
Cold Open
Michael got really sick after Dwight gave him a lot of paper work that needed done, obviously faking to get out of work. David Wallace then called Michael and asked him to interview for a job at corporate. It wasn't really funny, but the entire episode deals with Michael deciding on who would replace him if he got the corporate job. + 1 Star
Story
The interesting thing behind this episode is that there is only 1 plotline. This is the first time I encountered an episode with only one plotline. Basically, Michael is using a beach day in order to evaluate possible candidates for his job, as he assumed he would get the corporate job David Wallace asked him to apply for. Michael took his staff, minus Toby, to the beach to play games. While the staff thought that they were simply going for a fun day at the beach, Michael was actually judging all of them because he could not decide who to recommend to take over his job, assuming he will get the corporate job. Michael then forced the staff to play "funtivities" in the role of "Survivor". While Michael thought that the staff would really enjoy his games, most of the workers just goofed around. Pam was not allowed to play in the games because Michael wanted her to take notes to help him decide who is best fit for his job. Michael decided to let everyone know that he would recommend the winner, which turned everyone into fierce competitors. Dwight then conspired with Angela to sabotage Andy, as it was clear that Andy was the frontrunner in the competition. After the sumo wrestling competition, Andy fell into the water still wearing his sumo star and floated away in the lake. It was revealed that Jim and Karen are also candidates for the corporate job. Michael then presented that the last challenge would be to walk across burning hot coals. Pam was the only one who wanted to walk across the coals, but Michael wouldn't let her. Michael was then persuaded by Jim to walk across himself, but chickened-out after hyping it up for a long time. Dwight then volunteered to walk across the coals, and stopped and stood on the coals and refused to get off the coals until Michael awarded him the job. Dwight eventually fell to the ground and was dragged off the coals. Pam then walked across the coals while no one was looking, which was very fulfilling to her. She then confronted her coworkers, specifically Jim, asking why no one showed up to her art show. She explained to Jim that she called her wedding off because of him, which obviously made everyone uncomfortable. The episode ended with Michael explaining that what she said was amazing, but wanted someone with a background in sales.
This episode was effective in setting up the season finale with the emergence of the "new corporate opening" that we found out that Karen, Jim, and Michael are all applying for. Given these facts, we must assume that either Karen, Michael, or Jim will be leaving the office. As significant as this is, it is not as significant as Pam opening up to Jim, and the rest of the office, and making her feelings of loneliness public. The episode leaves us on a cliffhanger because we now know that Jim could potentially be leaving the office, and Pam had just poured her heart out to him. + 4 Stars
Jokes
I remember this episode being funnier, but after I rewatched it, I found that the humor wasn't all that impressive. Creed, as usual, entertained us with his mastery of fishing, and Angela had a funny moment rooting on Dwight in the sumo wrestling competition. The comedic highlight of the episode was Andy, dressed in a large sumo outfit, falling into the lake and floating away, seemingly left in the lake overnight. There was a nice moment when the entire staff sang songs on the bus, and I was pleased that Stanley and Angela joined in. I was somewhat disappointed that Michael and Dwight didn't really perform up to the their normal hilarious standards, but Stanley and Andy stepped it up to save the humor score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"Go tell them I'm floating away, obviously!" -Andy, to Angela, after Angela asks what she should do about Andy falling into the lake
Overal Score
8 Stars
4.14 "Goodbye, Toby"
Cold Open
The Open showed us Jim playing a prank on Dwight, classic. Jim forwarded Dwight's cell phone calls to Jim's headset. After Dwight tried to reprogram his cell phone to his work phone, he found out that Jim had also reprogrammed that phone to his ear pierce. Dwight then proceeded to smash his cell phone against his desk. Very funny, but had nothing to do with the episode. + 1 Star
Story
Goodbye, Toby is a two-part episode that was a very significant part of The Office. It was Toby's last day at the office, a new character named Holly was introduced, Jan is pregnant, Pam would soon be leaving to live in New York, Andy and Angela got engaged, Ryan had been arrested for fraud, and Phyllis discovered that Dwight and Angela were having an affair. This episode was the season finale of season 4, which is widely accepted as the last episode before a severe drop off in the show's quality. Besides planning for the huge party, there weren't a lot of other plotlines. We knew that Jim was planning to propose to Pam, but there wasn't enough footage to consider this a "B" story. Michael's growing relationship with Holly became the counter plotline to Toby's actual party, but the two were intertwined well enough to hide the fact that there were two stories happening at the same time.
In the beginning, Michael was so excited about his nemesis Toby leaving for Costa Rica, that he planned a humongous party to celebrate his departure. Part of Toby's last day was to train the new HR rep, Holly. Michael instantly despised Holly, but was pleasantly surprised that she was nothing like Toby. This, for Michael, immediately turned into a love interest, which Holly seemed to respond positively towards. As an office prank, Dwight convinced Holly that Kevin was retarded. Holly showed special interest in Kevin, which led Kevin to believe that Holly was interested in him. When Michael gave Toby a rock for his going away present, he was fooled into offering him his watch in order to save his image in front of Holly. Michael's ability to give his watch away really showed his feelings for Holly, given his level of hatred towards Toby. Michael's affection towards Holly grew deeper after Holly consoled him after Michael discovered that Ryan was arrested for fraud. During the party, it was obvious that Holly was interested in Michael. Following Jim's advice, Michael keeps distance between him and Holly, which made Holly feel that Michael was not interested in her. Michael was then called to the grocery store by Kevin, and found out that his ex-girlfriend, Jan, was pregnant. Although Michael was not the father of Jan's baby, Michael was still convinced that he was, in some way, going to be a father. This plotline closed with Holly being disappointed that Michael did not want to go out with her for desert, which obviously hinted towards a love affair in the future.
After Jim found out that Pam had been accepted into a prestigious art school in New York, Michael asked him for advice on courting Holly. During Jim's explanation, he realized that a large percentage of his relationship with Pam had started right there in the office. Jim then offered to pay for fireworks for the party, and admitted to the cameras his intent to propose to Pam during the party. Right as Jim started his proposal, Andy upstaged him by publicly proposing to Angela. Angela, reluctantly, accepted. It was later discovered by Phyllis that Dwight and Angela were having an affair.
In all, I loved how this episode worked. There was so much story progression and interesting twists that really left me satisfied. This is exactly what you want in a finale episode; the ability to create cliffhanger moments that the audience can't wait to see played out in full. There are several HUGE story lines to look forward to in the next season, as "Goodbye, Toby" completely threw The Office upside down. I loved it. + 5 Stars
Jokes
While the story in this episode was nothing short of amazing, the humor actually left me wanting more. Creed, AGAIN, pulled through with an excellent bit. I am amazed at how effective Creed is. I feel that if his character was used any more than it is, Creed would be too much. Michael did have some funny one liners while dealing with Toby and Jan, and Dwight convincing Holly that Kevin was retarded was amazing. Toby had a funny/awkward yell after requesting a picture with Pam, but I was disappointed in Andy and Dwight. Dwight was good, but he didn't perform as well as he needed to in a finale. Andy was basically not in the episode until he proposed to Angela. The highlight of the episode was Michael singing "Goodbye, Toby", where it was completely obvious that this was one of the best days of Michael's life.
The jokes were good, don't get me wrong, but I was expecting more for a finale episode. Being that this episode was a two-parter, I felt that something could have been worked out to include Andy more. While I was blown away by the actual story, the humor was about average. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
Michael claims that his grandmother sends him "9-10 birthday checks" per year because she is starting to go crazy. In season 5, Michael visits his grandmother and she is perfectly fine. It is possible he is talking about his other grandma, but this is unlikely. This is not a mistake for this episode, because Michael's grandmother had not yet been mentioned or seen in an earlier episode. This is a mistake in the season 5 episode, however.
While Jim was talking to Michael about Holly, he claimed that the first place he and Pam had kissed was "right outside". Jim and Pam's first kiss was at Chili's in the episode "The Dundies". It is possible that Jim is referring to their first "true kiss" because Pam was very drunk during their kiss at Chili's. Nonetheless, their first kiss was not at the office.- 1 Star
Andy introduces his father as Andrew Bernard, though in a later episode he explains how his name was found in a baby book and that his father's name is not Andrew. Again, this is not a mistake in this episode, but in the future episode where the writers suddenly forgot that they had already introduced Andy's dad as "Andrew".
Best Quotes
"Toby has been cruisin' for a bruisin' for 12 years, and I am now his cruise director. And my name is Captain Bruisin'." Michael
"You cheated on me? When I specifically asked you not to?" -Michael to Jan
Overall Score
8 Stars
THE VERDICT
Again, this is a matchup of two very important episodes of The Office. Goodbye Toby is a two part episode, and a finale, which is a big advantage. Goodbye, Toby, also, had a clear mistake in story and was also the source for other mistakes down the road. If there is one thing I hate, it is when the writers goof up and include something that is impossible to happen. Beach Games was very, very good. The problem was that Beach Games was a set up episode, while Goodbye, Toby was an episode that delivered. Weighing the pros and cons, I have determined that...
GOODBYE, TOBY is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 8-8.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Explanation
The "Best Episode Tournament" of The Office started as a way to evaluate episodes based on the cold open, story content and progression, and humor. After I collected the first six seasons on DVD, I decided to put all of the episodes into a random order and have a "tournament".
Since there are 116 episodes in the first 6 seasons, 12 episodes had to receive a "first round bye" in the tournament in order for it to equal a tru 128-team tournament.
Each episode will face another and will be judged by the cold open, story content and progression, and humor. The episode with the higher score will move on to the next round. If there is an episode without a cold open, the other episode's cold open will not be judged.
128 episodes will be cut in half to 64. Those 64 will be cut in half again to 32. This process is repeated until we are left with 1 episode. This episode, which I predict to be "Niagara", will then stand alone as the greatest episode of The Office ever.
Scores will be kept for all seasons, and at the end of the tournament, each season will receive a ranking 1 (being the best) through 6 (being the worst).
Since there are 116 episodes in the first 6 seasons, 12 episodes had to receive a "first round bye" in the tournament in order for it to equal a tru 128-team tournament.
Each episode will face another and will be judged by the cold open, story content and progression, and humor. The episode with the higher score will move on to the next round. If there is an episode without a cold open, the other episode's cold open will not be judged.
128 episodes will be cut in half to 64. Those 64 will be cut in half again to 32. This process is repeated until we are left with 1 episode. This episode, which I predict to be "Niagara", will then stand alone as the greatest episode of The Office ever.
Scores will be kept for all seasons, and at the end of the tournament, each season will receive a ranking 1 (being the best) through 6 (being the worst).
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Diwali vs. Cafe Disco
Tonight's match up we have episode 3.6 "Diwali" and episode 5.25 "Cafe Disco".
3.6 "Diwali"
Cold Open
The Cold Open opens with Michael making fun of Ryan's "dress" and then goes on to make fun of Kelly's Diwali. Pam and Kelly then show affection for Ryan's "dress" and Michael immediately becomes jealous and wants one for himself. This wasn't really that funny, probably because it was so predictable, but it gets points for foreshadowing the episode. + 1 Star
Story
The episode centers on Kelly inviting the entire office to her Diwali celebration. Although everyone seemed interested in attending, Pam claimed that she might skip it due to an illness. It was obvious that Pam missed Jim, because Jim is working at the Utica branch. To raise interest in Kelly's holiday, Michael put on a seminar where he passed out copies of the "Kama Sutra". The evening went generally well, although Michael's girlfriend showed up dressed like a cheerleader because Michael told her it was a "costume party". After a conversation with Kelly's parents about love, Michael decided to publicly propose to Carol. Carol rejected Michael and left the party. While Michael was sulking on the steps outside, Pam came and offered him comfort. Michael attempted to kiss Pam, was rejected, and was then forced to sit in the backseat when Pam gave him a ride home. The episode ended on a generally sour note for Pam, because she was expecting text messages from Jim, but Jim was drunk with Andy and Karen.
The "B" story centered on Jim, Andy, and Karen. The trio was forced to stay late to fulfill a quarterly obligation to do some sort of sales task. It was revealed that during this obligation, the trio take shots of Jager while doing their work. Jim and Andy got hopelessly drunk, and Jim was forced to get a ride home with Karen after he crashed his bicycle and discovered that Andy was sleeping at the office. This plotline closed with Jim passed out in the back of Karen's car, and Karen was visibly pleased that she has finally gotten some alone time with Jim...even if he was passed out drunk.
There was actually significant story progression in this episode. It was revealed that Michael and Carol are most likely finished, and the love connection between Jim and Karen really took off. For an episode that would seem to be all about Kelly, we didn't really learn anything new about her...which is a good thing. Michael is most likely back on the market, and Pam is getting a taste of her own medicine as she is the one missing Jim, not the other way around. Dwight played almost no role in this episode as far as story progression goes. + 2 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were good at times, but there weren't many memorable moments. Michael's failed kiss attempt with Pam was probably the funniest bit in this episode. Also, Michael compared the true origins of Diwali to "The Lord of the Rings", which was pretty funny. Jim had an entertaining opening to the episode when it was revealed that he had started riding his bicycle to work, which left him covered in sweat all day long. Carol went to the party dressed up as a cheerleader because Michael told her it was a costume party, and Jim wrecked his bicycle in a drunken attempt to peddle home. Dwight didn't have a strong performance, probably because he had very few lines. Creed was not in the episode, which was disappointing because he is always good for a laugh out loud moment. Michael did a pretty entertaining song parody at the end of the episode, which saved this episode's score in the jokes department. In all, I was pleased, but not impressed. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"So, um, tell me, is your marriage the kind of thing where when you die, she has to throw herself on a fire?" -Michael to Kelly's Hindu parent's
Overall Score
6 Stars
5.25 "Cafe Disco"
Cold Open
Dwight hurts Pam's feelings by paying Erin to scream out that she won an art contest. After Jim and Pam showed their distaste towards Dwight's prank, Dwight laughs demonically. Not funny.
Story
There is only one real plotline in this episode and that is Michael trying to convince his coworkers to join him in his old office he had as the manager of the Michael Scott Paper Company for music and coffee because his lease was not yet up. At first, only Kevin and Erin would visit Michael, which made him upset. In order to raise awareness for his "Cafe Disco", Michael blasted the song "Everybody Dance Now" through the vents so the staff could hear it. The blasting of the song convinced Phyllis to go down and dance with Michael, but she is injured while dancing. Michael instructed Dwight to take Phyllis into the conference room to treat her injury in fear that her presence in the Cafe Disco would deter others from showing up. After the entire office showed no interest in dancing, Michael ordered Erin to "shut it down". Erin and Kelly ended up dancing to music, which attracted warehouse workers, and then the entire staff. Michael was still upstairs when he realized that his whole staff was down stairs having fun. Michael then proceeded down stairs and had a great time with his employees in the Cafe Disco.
There was a plotline made up for Jim and Pam that involved them wishing to travel to Ohio to elope. This story never really developed, and Jim and Pam decided not to go through with it after visiting the Cafe Disco and noticing how much fun a large wedding would be.
Dwight and Phyllis share a storyline that involved Dwight treating Phyllis's injury. During the entire bit, it was revealed that Phyllis was afraid her husband would cheat on her. Dwight compared Phyllis to an injured horse, and gave her carrots and even used the expression "whooaa" when Phyllis tried to get up.
In all, there wasn't a lot of story progression. It was a very random episode that only served to show the true camaraderie of the office. I really liked Michael's genuine happiness near the end of the episode. The positive side of this episode is how Michael was able to bring everyone together through music and dancing, which was a source of happiness for everyone, not just Michael. The down side is that this episode could be deleted from the series and no information would be missed. It is the epitome of a "random/stupid" episode in that it does not bring us any closer to the conclusion of the series. I was kind of disappointed in Jim and Pam's role in this episode. They're going to Ohio to elope and then all of the sudden decide not to and it's no big deal? Come on. There had to have been a better idea for incorporating Jim and Pam into this episode. Dwight and Phyllis were very funny together, but no new information in the series was presented other than Phyllis's fear of being cheated on. The ending, with Andy and Kelly in the bathroom, was very random and not funny at all. + 2 Stars
Jokes
This episode was VERY funny! In the beginning, Michael treated Kevin like a dog while trying to persuade him into staying with him in the cafe, and even offered him a "cookie" with an out-stretched hand. Michael, Dwight, and even Oscar had some funny one-liners. What really stood out was Andy and Kelly's "dance off", and Dwight treating Phyllis like an injured horse. Both of these bits were very funny, highlighted by Dwight feeding carrots into Phyllis's mouth. I was very pleased with the humor in this episode. Many things to laugh about here! + 4 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quotes
"Everybody Dance Now!!!" -Michael (mouthing the words to the song with a stereo lifted over his head)
Overall Score
6 Stars
THE VERDICT
It is always tough to say that one episode is "better" than another. In this case, one episode made a more significant progression in the overall story of the series, while the other episode was hands down funnier. The question, then, is, "was the one episode more significant than the other was funny?" The answer, unfortunately for Diwali, is no. Even though Diwali was able to show us Pam's frustrations, Jim's new love interest, and Michael's newest breakup, there just weren't enough memorable moments to beat out "Cafe Disco". Thus, I have determined that....
CAFE DISCO is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 6-6
3.6 "Diwali"
Cold Open
The Cold Open opens with Michael making fun of Ryan's "dress" and then goes on to make fun of Kelly's Diwali. Pam and Kelly then show affection for Ryan's "dress" and Michael immediately becomes jealous and wants one for himself. This wasn't really that funny, probably because it was so predictable, but it gets points for foreshadowing the episode. + 1 Star
Story
The episode centers on Kelly inviting the entire office to her Diwali celebration. Although everyone seemed interested in attending, Pam claimed that she might skip it due to an illness. It was obvious that Pam missed Jim, because Jim is working at the Utica branch. To raise interest in Kelly's holiday, Michael put on a seminar where he passed out copies of the "Kama Sutra". The evening went generally well, although Michael's girlfriend showed up dressed like a cheerleader because Michael told her it was a "costume party". After a conversation with Kelly's parents about love, Michael decided to publicly propose to Carol. Carol rejected Michael and left the party. While Michael was sulking on the steps outside, Pam came and offered him comfort. Michael attempted to kiss Pam, was rejected, and was then forced to sit in the backseat when Pam gave him a ride home. The episode ended on a generally sour note for Pam, because she was expecting text messages from Jim, but Jim was drunk with Andy and Karen.
The "B" story centered on Jim, Andy, and Karen. The trio was forced to stay late to fulfill a quarterly obligation to do some sort of sales task. It was revealed that during this obligation, the trio take shots of Jager while doing their work. Jim and Andy got hopelessly drunk, and Jim was forced to get a ride home with Karen after he crashed his bicycle and discovered that Andy was sleeping at the office. This plotline closed with Jim passed out in the back of Karen's car, and Karen was visibly pleased that she has finally gotten some alone time with Jim...even if he was passed out drunk.
There was actually significant story progression in this episode. It was revealed that Michael and Carol are most likely finished, and the love connection between Jim and Karen really took off. For an episode that would seem to be all about Kelly, we didn't really learn anything new about her...which is a good thing. Michael is most likely back on the market, and Pam is getting a taste of her own medicine as she is the one missing Jim, not the other way around. Dwight played almost no role in this episode as far as story progression goes. + 2 Stars
Jokes
The jokes were good at times, but there weren't many memorable moments. Michael's failed kiss attempt with Pam was probably the funniest bit in this episode. Also, Michael compared the true origins of Diwali to "The Lord of the Rings", which was pretty funny. Jim had an entertaining opening to the episode when it was revealed that he had started riding his bicycle to work, which left him covered in sweat all day long. Carol went to the party dressed up as a cheerleader because Michael told her it was a costume party, and Jim wrecked his bicycle in a drunken attempt to peddle home. Dwight didn't have a strong performance, probably because he had very few lines. Creed was not in the episode, which was disappointing because he is always good for a laugh out loud moment. Michael did a pretty entertaining song parody at the end of the episode, which saved this episode's score in the jokes department. In all, I was pleased, but not impressed. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quote
"So, um, tell me, is your marriage the kind of thing where when you die, she has to throw herself on a fire?" -Michael to Kelly's Hindu parent's
Overall Score
6 Stars
5.25 "Cafe Disco"
Cold Open
Dwight hurts Pam's feelings by paying Erin to scream out that she won an art contest. After Jim and Pam showed their distaste towards Dwight's prank, Dwight laughs demonically. Not funny.
Story
There is only one real plotline in this episode and that is Michael trying to convince his coworkers to join him in his old office he had as the manager of the Michael Scott Paper Company for music and coffee because his lease was not yet up. At first, only Kevin and Erin would visit Michael, which made him upset. In order to raise awareness for his "Cafe Disco", Michael blasted the song "Everybody Dance Now" through the vents so the staff could hear it. The blasting of the song convinced Phyllis to go down and dance with Michael, but she is injured while dancing. Michael instructed Dwight to take Phyllis into the conference room to treat her injury in fear that her presence in the Cafe Disco would deter others from showing up. After the entire office showed no interest in dancing, Michael ordered Erin to "shut it down". Erin and Kelly ended up dancing to music, which attracted warehouse workers, and then the entire staff. Michael was still upstairs when he realized that his whole staff was down stairs having fun. Michael then proceeded down stairs and had a great time with his employees in the Cafe Disco.
There was a plotline made up for Jim and Pam that involved them wishing to travel to Ohio to elope. This story never really developed, and Jim and Pam decided not to go through with it after visiting the Cafe Disco and noticing how much fun a large wedding would be.
Dwight and Phyllis share a storyline that involved Dwight treating Phyllis's injury. During the entire bit, it was revealed that Phyllis was afraid her husband would cheat on her. Dwight compared Phyllis to an injured horse, and gave her carrots and even used the expression "whooaa" when Phyllis tried to get up.
In all, there wasn't a lot of story progression. It was a very random episode that only served to show the true camaraderie of the office. I really liked Michael's genuine happiness near the end of the episode. The positive side of this episode is how Michael was able to bring everyone together through music and dancing, which was a source of happiness for everyone, not just Michael. The down side is that this episode could be deleted from the series and no information would be missed. It is the epitome of a "random/stupid" episode in that it does not bring us any closer to the conclusion of the series. I was kind of disappointed in Jim and Pam's role in this episode. They're going to Ohio to elope and then all of the sudden decide not to and it's no big deal? Come on. There had to have been a better idea for incorporating Jim and Pam into this episode. Dwight and Phyllis were very funny together, but no new information in the series was presented other than Phyllis's fear of being cheated on. The ending, with Andy and Kelly in the bathroom, was very random and not funny at all. + 2 Stars
Jokes
This episode was VERY funny! In the beginning, Michael treated Kevin like a dog while trying to persuade him into staying with him in the cafe, and even offered him a "cookie" with an out-stretched hand. Michael, Dwight, and even Oscar had some funny one-liners. What really stood out was Andy and Kelly's "dance off", and Dwight treating Phyllis like an injured horse. Both of these bits were very funny, highlighted by Dwight feeding carrots into Phyllis's mouth. I was very pleased with the humor in this episode. Many things to laugh about here! + 4 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found
Best Quotes
"Everybody Dance Now!!!" -Michael (mouthing the words to the song with a stereo lifted over his head)
Overall Score
6 Stars
THE VERDICT
It is always tough to say that one episode is "better" than another. In this case, one episode made a more significant progression in the overall story of the series, while the other episode was hands down funnier. The question, then, is, "was the one episode more significant than the other was funny?" The answer, unfortunately for Diwali, is no. Even though Diwali was able to show us Pam's frustrations, Jim's new love interest, and Michael's newest breakup, there just weren't enough memorable moments to beat out "Cafe Disco". Thus, I have determined that....
CAFE DISCO is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by a tie breaker score of 6-6
Monday, January 24, 2011
The Carpet vs. The Banker
This matchup features episode 2.14 "The Carpet" and episode 6.13 "The Banker". Both episodes are mid-season episodes, but from two completely different eras in The Office.
2.14 "The Carpet"
Cold Open
The Cold Open is funny. Ryan covered for Pam while she was away on vacation. Because Ryan was sitting where Pam normally sat, Jim frequently looked up from his desk, only to see Ryan. Ryan was creeped out by both Jim (for looking at him so often) and by Michael, who stood inside his office creepily staring at Ryan. This Cold Open not only drove home Jim's desire for Pam to return, but also Michael's infatuation with Ryan. No other character was included, or needed. + 2 Stars
Story
This story has two basic plotlines. The first is Michael finding a pile of poop on his office floor. At first, Michael was dumbfounded and couldn't imagine how the poop could have gotten there. As a result of the odor, Michael decides to sit at Jim's desk for the day. Michael, in an attempt to relive his days as a salesman, annoyed his workers to the point of knocking over papers and supplies as part of a "raid". In order to boost morale, Michael offered $83 for the salesman that had the most sales that day. After seeing two of his workers laugh about the poop, Michael finally realized that someone had deliberately pooped on his carpet. Infuriated, Michael takes back the $83 and puts the entire office in a "timeout". Michael then met with his former boss, Ed Truck, who told him that he couldn't expect to be friends with everyone. Michael, put off by Ed's advice, returned to the office depressed. Shortly after that, Michael received a call from Packer, who admitted to taking the dump on the floor. Michael was filled with joy to find out that the act was done out of "love" and discounted everything Ed had said to him, leaving him happy and fulfilled.
Jim, as a result of Michael moving to his desk, was forced to move into the annex and sit next to Kelly. This annoyed Jim because he was looking forward to spending time with Pam, who had just returned from vacation with her fiance, Roy. Back at the annex, Ryan made up an excuse to visit Jim in order for Kelly to notice him. After Kelly expressed romantic interest in Ryan, Jim agreed to talk to Ryan for her. While Jim worked on fixing up Ryan and Kelly, he was visibly distrought over not seeing Pam for the entire day. Jim noticed Pam leaving for the day, but was upset when Pam left without saying goodbye to him. Miserable and alone, Jim's spirits were turned upside down when it was revealed that Pam had been sending Jim several voicemails throughout the day. One of the voicemails explained that Pam had left early due to an opportunity of not being noticed, and apologized for not seeing him. Jim then walked to his car, happy as a clam, and drove home for the day.
I am very happy with this story. Not only does the Kelly/Ryan fiasco start up, but the entire episode is classic material. Jim's struggles courting Pam hit home for so many viewers on so many levels. Michael's distorted grip on reality is undemanding to see, which is the source of a lot of the comedy in this episode. In all, this episode made another slow progression toward Jim overcoming Roy and winning over Pam, which was played out very slowly in this season. Michael and the others made almost no progression in story. I was disappointed that Dwight was not involved in either of the plotlines. + 3 Stars
Jokes
Obviously, an episode that involves someone taking a dump on the floor is going to be funny. The fact that the cleaning lady made it worse was even better. Dwight had some funny quotes early in the episode, but was not seen in the second half. A picture of Michael Scott with a mullet was the comedic highlight of this episode.
The episode was really split into two plotlines; one humourous and one serious. The episode was effective, but I would have liked to see more from Dwight and Creed. Michael was very good, but there needed to be more to warrant an above average score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
Michael: I am the victim of a hate crime!
Stanley: That's not what a hate crime is.
Michael: Well I hated it! ...A LOT!
Overall Score
8 Stars
6.13 "The Banker"
Cold Open
The Cold Open was dull and boring. It was explained that Dunder Mifflin had been sold, but not in a funny way. Michael compared Lady Gage to a drag queen, but it just wasn't funny. Normally I add a star if the Cold Open has anything to do with the episode, but this Open was so bland that I am going to make an exception.
Story
Michael explained that Dunder Mifflin has been sold, which meant that people like Charles Miner and David Wallace were now out of the picture, and a banker is coming to evaluate Dunder Mifflin. Michael used silly props and gadgets to give off the impression that Dunder Mifflin is way more technologically advanced than it really is, which only confused the banker. The banker explained that he is only there to meet with Toby, and to take inventory of supplies. During his interview with Toby, the banker asked questions that were difficult for Toby to answer. Toby's thoughts eventually opened up into a clip show. Random clips from all six of the previous seasons were shown as Toby stumbled with his thoughts. The clips didn't make sense for Toby to be thinking them, since several of the clips were personal moments that Toby would not have ever known about. The clip show highlighted at an emotional look at the progression of Jim and Pam's relationship through the first six seasons, culminating with clips from their wedding. This was a touching moment, almost feeling like a series finale. After the banker left, Michael then asked how the banker would evaluate his employees, which also was a touching moment as we got a look at all of the employees of Dunder Mifflin.
In my eyes, this should have been the last episode of The Office. If you look at all episodes past The Banker, none are anywhere near as good as in previous seasons. As we got closer to the end of the clip show, there was true potential to put the series to rest if the episode had been a two-parter. The Office could have been sold, which would have dismissed the camera crew, and Michael and the gang could have lived happily ever after. It could have been established that Dwight and Angela ended up together, Ryan and Kelly married and divorced twice, Andy and Erin ended up together, and that Michael is currently "happily married with children". Alas, this is not the case. + 2 Stars
Jokes
The only original joke in the entire episode that was funny was the "fake Stanley" gag. Michael had hired a black model to sit in Stanley's chair in order to impress the banker. Other than that, there was no original footage that was funny. + 1 Star
Mistakes
There is no way that Toby could have "remembered" some of the clips he did because some of the clips happened in locations where Toby was not present. There is no evidence that the camera crew ever showed the staff the tapes (except in one case when Jim and Pam were caught kissing), so it is nearly impossible for Toby to have remembered these instances. - 1 Star
Best Quote
"I feel very sorry for that banker because he has to evaluate what we are worth. He has to decide what we're capable of, and how do you do that? What is Jim capable of? Or Pam? Or Kevin?...I don't care if he goes and files a report that says we're nothing special, because I think our future is very bright. We have only just begun." - Michael (This should have been the last quote in the series)
Overall Score
2 Stars
THE VERDICT
It is weird to say this, but The Banker had the potential to be the greatest episode of The Office ever, but will actually be better known as the worst. I feel that this episode could have added a few final scenes to give closure on a few loose ends, and then end the series with the staff all working together for a long time under a new company and everyone ending up happy. Instead, the show went on. The last 4-6 minutes of this episode, in my opinion, are the greatest 5 minutes in the shows entirety. The way it disappointed me taints it forever, however. The Carpet, on the other hand, was very solid all the way around, which is why I determined....
THE CARPET is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 8-2.
2.14 "The Carpet"
Cold Open
The Cold Open is funny. Ryan covered for Pam while she was away on vacation. Because Ryan was sitting where Pam normally sat, Jim frequently looked up from his desk, only to see Ryan. Ryan was creeped out by both Jim (for looking at him so often) and by Michael, who stood inside his office creepily staring at Ryan. This Cold Open not only drove home Jim's desire for Pam to return, but also Michael's infatuation with Ryan. No other character was included, or needed. + 2 Stars
Story
This story has two basic plotlines. The first is Michael finding a pile of poop on his office floor. At first, Michael was dumbfounded and couldn't imagine how the poop could have gotten there. As a result of the odor, Michael decides to sit at Jim's desk for the day. Michael, in an attempt to relive his days as a salesman, annoyed his workers to the point of knocking over papers and supplies as part of a "raid". In order to boost morale, Michael offered $83 for the salesman that had the most sales that day. After seeing two of his workers laugh about the poop, Michael finally realized that someone had deliberately pooped on his carpet. Infuriated, Michael takes back the $83 and puts the entire office in a "timeout". Michael then met with his former boss, Ed Truck, who told him that he couldn't expect to be friends with everyone. Michael, put off by Ed's advice, returned to the office depressed. Shortly after that, Michael received a call from Packer, who admitted to taking the dump on the floor. Michael was filled with joy to find out that the act was done out of "love" and discounted everything Ed had said to him, leaving him happy and fulfilled.
Jim, as a result of Michael moving to his desk, was forced to move into the annex and sit next to Kelly. This annoyed Jim because he was looking forward to spending time with Pam, who had just returned from vacation with her fiance, Roy. Back at the annex, Ryan made up an excuse to visit Jim in order for Kelly to notice him. After Kelly expressed romantic interest in Ryan, Jim agreed to talk to Ryan for her. While Jim worked on fixing up Ryan and Kelly, he was visibly distrought over not seeing Pam for the entire day. Jim noticed Pam leaving for the day, but was upset when Pam left without saying goodbye to him. Miserable and alone, Jim's spirits were turned upside down when it was revealed that Pam had been sending Jim several voicemails throughout the day. One of the voicemails explained that Pam had left early due to an opportunity of not being noticed, and apologized for not seeing him. Jim then walked to his car, happy as a clam, and drove home for the day.
I am very happy with this story. Not only does the Kelly/Ryan fiasco start up, but the entire episode is classic material. Jim's struggles courting Pam hit home for so many viewers on so many levels. Michael's distorted grip on reality is undemanding to see, which is the source of a lot of the comedy in this episode. In all, this episode made another slow progression toward Jim overcoming Roy and winning over Pam, which was played out very slowly in this season. Michael and the others made almost no progression in story. I was disappointed that Dwight was not involved in either of the plotlines. + 3 Stars
Jokes
Obviously, an episode that involves someone taking a dump on the floor is going to be funny. The fact that the cleaning lady made it worse was even better. Dwight had some funny quotes early in the episode, but was not seen in the second half. A picture of Michael Scott with a mullet was the comedic highlight of this episode.
The episode was really split into two plotlines; one humourous and one serious. The episode was effective, but I would have liked to see more from Dwight and Creed. Michael was very good, but there needed to be more to warrant an above average score. + 3 Stars
Mistakes
No mistakes found.
Best Quote
Michael: I am the victim of a hate crime!
Stanley: That's not what a hate crime is.
Michael: Well I hated it! ...A LOT!
Overall Score
8 Stars
6.13 "The Banker"
Cold Open
The Cold Open was dull and boring. It was explained that Dunder Mifflin had been sold, but not in a funny way. Michael compared Lady Gage to a drag queen, but it just wasn't funny. Normally I add a star if the Cold Open has anything to do with the episode, but this Open was so bland that I am going to make an exception.
Story
Michael explained that Dunder Mifflin has been sold, which meant that people like Charles Miner and David Wallace were now out of the picture, and a banker is coming to evaluate Dunder Mifflin. Michael used silly props and gadgets to give off the impression that Dunder Mifflin is way more technologically advanced than it really is, which only confused the banker. The banker explained that he is only there to meet with Toby, and to take inventory of supplies. During his interview with Toby, the banker asked questions that were difficult for Toby to answer. Toby's thoughts eventually opened up into a clip show. Random clips from all six of the previous seasons were shown as Toby stumbled with his thoughts. The clips didn't make sense for Toby to be thinking them, since several of the clips were personal moments that Toby would not have ever known about. The clip show highlighted at an emotional look at the progression of Jim and Pam's relationship through the first six seasons, culminating with clips from their wedding. This was a touching moment, almost feeling like a series finale. After the banker left, Michael then asked how the banker would evaluate his employees, which also was a touching moment as we got a look at all of the employees of Dunder Mifflin.
In my eyes, this should have been the last episode of The Office. If you look at all episodes past The Banker, none are anywhere near as good as in previous seasons. As we got closer to the end of the clip show, there was true potential to put the series to rest if the episode had been a two-parter. The Office could have been sold, which would have dismissed the camera crew, and Michael and the gang could have lived happily ever after. It could have been established that Dwight and Angela ended up together, Ryan and Kelly married and divorced twice, Andy and Erin ended up together, and that Michael is currently "happily married with children". Alas, this is not the case. + 2 Stars
Jokes
The only original joke in the entire episode that was funny was the "fake Stanley" gag. Michael had hired a black model to sit in Stanley's chair in order to impress the banker. Other than that, there was no original footage that was funny. + 1 Star
Mistakes
There is no way that Toby could have "remembered" some of the clips he did because some of the clips happened in locations where Toby was not present. There is no evidence that the camera crew ever showed the staff the tapes (except in one case when Jim and Pam were caught kissing), so it is nearly impossible for Toby to have remembered these instances. - 1 Star
Best Quote
"I feel very sorry for that banker because he has to evaluate what we are worth. He has to decide what we're capable of, and how do you do that? What is Jim capable of? Or Pam? Or Kevin?...I don't care if he goes and files a report that says we're nothing special, because I think our future is very bright. We have only just begun." - Michael (This should have been the last quote in the series)
Overall Score
2 Stars
THE VERDICT
It is weird to say this, but The Banker had the potential to be the greatest episode of The Office ever, but will actually be better known as the worst. I feel that this episode could have added a few final scenes to give closure on a few loose ends, and then end the series with the staff all working together for a long time under a new company and everyone ending up happy. Instead, the show went on. The last 4-6 minutes of this episode, in my opinion, are the greatest 5 minutes in the shows entirety. The way it disappointed me taints it forever, however. The Carpet, on the other hand, was very solid all the way around, which is why I determined....
THE CARPET is the better episode and will move on in the tournament by the score of 8-2.
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