Back in 2005, NBC put a titanic push into promoting their new comedy, The Office. I knew nothing about it at the time other than: 1. It was based upon a British show by the same name and 2. I wouldn’t watch it because obviously the British, who, by default, are funnier than Americans, did it better. A few years passed and, as more and more of my friends began to watch the show, I decided the pleasure I derived from mocking them for watching a two-bit knockoff was outweighed by the fun I’d have being able to sit down and watch it with them. So I gave The Office a chance and was instantly hooked. A large part of the reason for that was Steve Carell’s performance as the bumbling yet likable office manager, Michael Scott.
About a year ago, Netflix began streaming the British version of The Office, and I was finally exposed to Ricky Gervais’ David Brent, Michael Scott’s UK counterpart. And you know what? By comparison, Gervais kind of blew. “Oh, John, you dumb American,” you’ll cry, “You’re simply not intelligent enough to pick up on the nuances of Ricky’s performance! He was so delightfully awkward!” Well, my toothless friends across the pond, awkward doesn’t always translate to funny. Walking in on your uncle molesting your kid sister is awkward, but I wouldn’t call it a knee slapper. Unless he was wearing a silly hat.
So thank you, Steve Carell, for having the balls to make Michael Scott something more than David Brent minus the accent and morbid obesity. It was far more pleasurable wondering where you’d take a scene than knowing your every appearance would culminate in the viewer wincing like they’d just heard their mother say “blow job.” Best of luck conquering Hollywood. Oh, and while you’re leaving, please, take Will Ferrell with you.
Yesterday, with my air conditioner kaput, I sought refuge from the elements in my local public library, like any self-respecting hobo would. To my amazement, the visit was actually quite […]
Nyssa23 on April 29, 2011
Although I find most British comedies really funny, I’ve never been able to figure out the odd attraction they have to what I call “the comedy of humiliation.” (See also: Fawlty Towers.) Yikes!
Brian on April 29, 2011
I had really high hopes for the British version and, like you, I was surprised when I liked the American version more. And amen on Will Ferrell. I hate that guy.
MB on May 12, 2011
Yeah Michael Scott was amazing. I will always cherish his making “That’s What She Said” fun to say, even for a lady like myself.
Will Ferrell just isn’t it.