Tools for this page
Print

What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Marjorie Kase

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?

4

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.

Give Us a Minute, Get a Lot of Common Sense!
  • Age-appropriate best bets for your kids
  • Weekly email alert with the latest picks, reviews & advice
  • Post your own reviews and share them with friends
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
A screen name protects your privacy
(It's free!)

Already a member? Log in
Your family's privacy is our highest priority.
See our privacy policy, community guidelines, and terms of use.
To post a review or comment you must become a Common Sense Member. It's easy!
Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations.
A screen name protects your privacy
Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
(optional)
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

Already a member? Log in
Your family's privacy is our highest priority.
See our privacy policy, community guidelines, and terms of use.
We can make Common Sense just right for you. With a little info about you and your family, you'll get the most out of our site.
Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!
Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child
Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations
A screen name protects your privacy
Already a member? Log in
Your family's privacy is our highest priority.
See our privacy policy, community guidelines, and terms of use.
Register to add this school to your profile. You'll be able to see and share reviews from parents, teachers, and kids at your child's school.
I'm already a Common Sense member.
Kids under 13 must use a screen name
Your family's privacy is our highest priority.
See our privacy policy, community guidelines, and terms of use.