So a frequent criticism of the American version of
The Office is that it owes too much to the British version. I agree with this
criticism. The stuff that the US version cribbed from the UK version sucked
because the UK version isn’t really that funny. Case in point: Jan. The whole
dynamic with Michael and Jan was only OK, but they did it because they had to
from the UK version. But it works in this episode as we see Michael oddly
trying to compete with her by forming a “men in the workplace” breakout session
to counter Jan’s with the female staff.
Pam loses it when she realizes she isn’t strong
enough to chase her dreams, even when the company she ostensibly hates offers
to help her achieve them. (Remember: Pam is a loser, but Jenna Fisher is an
INCREDIBLE dramatic actress.)
This is also the breakthrough episode for the
warehouse (notably Daryl).
Highlights:
Michael: What is more important than quality?
Equality.
Kelly: How can someone so beautiful be so sad?