After talking about Seinfeld, I couldn’t miss the chance to speak about my favorite comedy show. That’s right, The Office. The UK version, the first one that I saw, (you can call it the “original one”), created by Ricky Gervais (plays the role of David Brent, the general manager) and Stephen Merchant, had a total of twelve episodes and some Christmas specials. This first impression of the show, was bad. The way of filming, and even that system of single interviews that they frequently use, was a little odd at the beginning, but in the third episode I was already surrendered to this hilarious show.
When the American version came out (and I recently discovered that besides the US, a French, German and also a French-Canadian versions were made), I received it with a torch in my hand, ready to set fire. “It’s just the same show with a different cast, where’s the originality of that? Even the employee is in love with the secretary just like the UK show. Boring.” That was what I used to think, till I finally start seeing it. The first season only has six episodes, the way of filming is the same of the UK show, so I was already used to it, and didn’t find a little weird. After those six episodes I was already converted by Steve Carrell (in the role of Michael Scott, the Regional Manager) and his gang, and believe me, Steve Carrell is amazing. The jokes, the embarrassing situations and even the stupidity of his character is nothing less than hilarious.
After all, the American version wasn’t just a imitation of the original, it is a developed and adapted show, based in the UK version. After that short first season, it came a long second season with a total of twenty-two episodes. I was already convinced by the first season, and the second one was most welcomed. And now, we arrive to the subject that made me write this topic, the third season of the show is released in the US today. It brings the twenty-three episodes of the season and over three hours of hilarious deleted scenes. To a true fan of The Office like me, this is something that deserves full attention. Right now, I’m a little out of money, so I guess I’ll just have to “borrow it” from someone.
A forth season of the show will premiere on September 27, till then I hope I’ve already seen all the third one.
Have a good time with The Office,
Rui Azevedo
