It's no secret that I love sitcoms and I am concerned about the status of the sitcom today. CHILD OF TELEVISION: Where’s Norman Lear now that we need him?
When I first heard that there was going to be an American version of the British comedy series "The Office", I thought that this was a bad idea. In my defense when I first heard this news, it was in the wake of a failed attempt to do an American version of the British comedy series "Coupling". I can list a dozen reasons as to why the American version of "Coupling" failed. One reason is dialogue, that was almost copied word for word from the British series, was delivered as zingers. Another reason is that a British show does not have to meet the same network standards and practices that American shows do.
As time went on I started to become cautiously optimistic when I heard that "The Daily Shows" Steve Corel was going to star in the project. Then later I got to see some of the previews. It looked like they were maintaining the integrity of the original series by shooting the show documentary style and not having a laugh track. The pilot episode closely resembles the pilot of the original series with a few changes necessary like geographical and cultural references. I also found the American version slightly more P.C. The Character of Michael Scott can and should get away with his inappropriate sexual and racist comments because he is clueless to the fact that he is out of line.
I am sure there are some who have already started their letter writing campaign claiming that the show glamorizes sexism and ethnic humor. All in all I liked the show but I never judge a show by its pilot.
Article comments
1 - Tom Johnson
I can list a dozen reasons as to why the American version of "Coupling" failed.
I only need one reason: the British version of Coupling sucked as bad as the US remake.
On the Office, I agree - it's actually good, and has the potential to be great. The original set such a high standard for greatness that this series will forever have the problem of living up to its older sibling - but that's only if NBC chooses to keep it around next year. I'm hesitant to get too attached for fear it won't reappear next season . . .
2 - Sfc Ski
I hace to disagree, Tom, The British Coupling was one of the funniest shows to air in the last 10 years. I absolutely hate "Friends" which is why I was so surprised that I enjoyed "Coupling", they are like night and day, even though on paper they are the same show.
I don't watch sitcoms, but I will check out The Office if I am home when it is on.
3 - DrPat
Try this free ASIN: 0028623975 (The Complete Idiot's Guide to Office Politics). Or how about 076450830X (Office XP for Dummies)?
4 - Temple Stark
To-ny,
Lifted and lobbed to Advance.net - Temple (filling in for Scott Pepper who's on vacation until next week)