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The Office

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 14, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 14.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Droll take on office politics isn't for kids.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–16

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The main character is seriously flawed. He's portrayed as an idiot. Accordingly, his ignorant sexist, and somewhat racist comments about his subordinates are not meant to be taken seriously.
  • Violence:

    Not an issue.
  • Sex:

    Some sexual innuendo, nothing too explicit.
  • Language:

    Inappropriate comments about race and gender that are either ignored or met with disbelief.
  • Consumerism:

    One episode took place at Hooters, another at Chili's. Some product placement -- notably by Staples.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    One or two characters will often get drunk at office parties.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of The Office was written by Marjorie Kase

Parents need to know that the show's main character regularly makes insensitive remarks about employees' race and gender, and that he's treated like a buffoon as a result. The show also features a fair amount of sexual innuendo. Characters are known to get drunk at office parties.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about rude and inappropriate behavior in comedic television shows. What is the most outrageous thing you've ever viewed? Do you think the line of what is considered acceptable changes? When would you say television writers have crossed the line into truly offensive? Is that line different for cable and network shows? Should it be?
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More on The Office

What’s the Story?

THE OFFICE is a mockumentary series that covers the 9-5 workaday antics of a Scranton paper company's staff. Overseeing employees is Mike Scott, played by Steve Carell (The 40-Year-Old Virgin), a boorish, self-aggrandizing, inept regional manager who cracks jokes that weren't funny seven years ago ("Wassup?" is still in his arsenal). His underling, Dwight (Rainn Wilson), a wannabe assistant manager and weekend volunteer sheriff's deputy, is like the hall monitor from hell, on constant watch for employee infractions. Dwight's a natural target for the never-ending stream of practical jokes conceived by bored desk mate and everyman Jim (John Krasinski) who has a wicked crush on receptionist Pam (Jenna Fischer). Rounding out the cast is office temp Ryan (B.J. Novak), who is simply along for the ride.

Is It Any Good?

Inefficiency runs amok in this remake of Ricky Gervais' classic BBC show. But The Office has proven itself to be a stand-alone hit from its British predecessor. Using only the framework of the previous series with new storylines that are more reflective of American office culture ("Diversity Day" and "Yankee Swap" are good examples), the show has managed to garner a sizable following on this side of the pond. Steve Carell also does a laudable job in setting himself apart from Gervais' David Brent with a character that is both offensive and oddly endearing.

Viewers unfamiliar with the original series might find it hard to get used to the show's intentional awkwardness both with its dialogue and direction. It may take a couple of viewings to appreciate the unconventionality of the show's humor, but it's definitely worth it for mature audiences.

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 4.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language

    Dwight and Micheal Rule!

    The Office is one of the 4th funniest shows I've ever watched!This show does have some mild language along with brief mild sexual references in every episode.With marriage, and couple situations/discussions might go over other kids' heads.But the stars of the show are Steve Carrell and Rainn Wilson who play the most hysterical partners Micheal( Steve Carrell)and ( Rainn Wilson) This show keeps me laughing and laughing! I say this show is ON for 12+.Go Dwight, Go Micheal, Go Steve and and Go Rainn, Go! Go! Go! Go! Go! Gooooooo all of you ! That includes Steve Carrell, Rainn Wilson, Dwight and Micheal!

  2. Kid Reviewer Age 10
    I rate this title on for age 16 and give it 4.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use
    • Negative message

    uk versio isnt as funny .....us version worse

  3. I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content

    Best TV show ever

    This is my favorite TV. But it gets VERY inappropriate. Some of the episodes I wasn't allowed to watch. But it's the funniest show ever.

  4. I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 5.0

    Funny, Smart.

    No concerns but not really any highlights. THEE funniest show I've EVER seen in my life. Some things may be considered a bit inappropriate but it's meant to be comedic and it is. this is my favorite show.

  5. I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 4.0

    Sarchastic

    Although Micheal is an ignorant biggoted numbskull, he is obviously portrayed sarchastically.

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