The Office American Workplace - Series 1 to 5 DVD Box Set

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RRP: £79.99

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If there’s one thing British comedy has over its US counterparts, it’s that unique ability to make everybody feel awkward. Basil Fawlty made us cringe as much as laugh, a man seemingly without the ability to self-censor or to say the right thing at the right time. Never has this traditional been more successful than Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s BBC sitcom, The Office, of which this American show is a sort-of remake, sort-of spinoff. But can Americans really do uncomfortable?

Taking over from Gervais, Steve Carell stars as Michael Scott in a Golden Globe winning performance that redefines the character loved - or hated - by so many. Carell’s office manager is a little sillier, a little more extreme, but ultimately it’s the same lack of inner monologue that makes the character so great. There are times, most people would admit, that a hushed ‘that’s what she said’ isn’t overly appropriate - Michael Scott, unfortunately, can’t see these times coming!

Of course, much of the comedy is in the reaction of other characters to Scott’s outrageous behaviour and, fortunately, Carell is supported here by a cast of excellent comics in their own right. In particular, Rainn Wilson’s performance as Dwight creates an exaggerated cartoon-like version of the UK Office’s Gareth who consistently delivers the most unpredictable and hilarious moments. Whilst the show is undoubtedly funny, though, it’s the romantic hook that often keeps you coming back, with Jim (John Krasinsky) and Pam (Jenna Fischer) gradually falling in love across the five seasons included. They are two refreshing glimpses of vague normality in this surreal work environment - but if you had a hard time waiting for Tim and Dawn to get it together in the UK, prepare for a long wait across the pond!

Despite the fact that Gervais and Merchant co-wrote two episodes with American showrunner Greg Daniels, The American Office is a very different beast to the BBC’s hit. It’s a little more sitcom than mockumentary, with a little more dependance on jokey one liners. Interestingly, though, this makes for a blend that works - cringe comedy meets gags in a show that has earned its longevity by, ultimately, being more varied. It’s not the same as Gervais’ Office, but it’s bigger, longer and, at times, funnier.

That’s what she said.