Before I begin, let me say that I have seen every single episode of both the British and the American versions of the hit TV show The Office. But with the debut of its fifth season on September 25, the American Office seems to have taken a turn for the worse. It's time for the show's writers to remember where it came from.
"I don't give shitty jobs."
These are Ricky Gervais's opening lines from the original British version of The Office, and they're words you will never hear from Steve Carrell. The edgier, uncensored nature of the British version is one of the many aspects that got lost in translation on its way across the Atlantic for the American remake.Â
For the most part, the American Office has departed so far from the British version that the two can barely be thought of as the same show. One major pitfall is that some of the main characters in the American version are vastly different from their portrayal in the British one. For example, Carrell's role as Michael Scott is, at best, an overblown parody of the bumbling British boss David Brent. The real loss is that Gervais's style of subtle comedic delivery throughout the series has been abandoned. Instead, Carrell's jokes are over the top and spoon-fed to the American audience.Â
Another prominent character that was spoiled in the American version is the role of the slightly neurotic wimp Gareth Keenan. Mackenzie Crook's role as Gareth was turned into Dwight Shrute, portrayed by Rainn Wilson. Wilson's role is so over-acted and unbelievable that he comes across more like a villain from a little kid's show than a character in a comedy that is supposed to be funny because of how realistic it is. This brings me to the fundamental difference between the two shows. Although a stretch at times, the British version feels like it could be a real workplace, and the characters are humorous in their authenticity. In the American version, the characters are larger than life, and often find themselves in unrealistic situations. While some viewers see this as part of the show's charm, it entirely undermines the original premise of the series.
2008 Woodie Awards
Viewing Comments 1 - 3 of 3
Braksgirl
posted 10/29/08 @ 8:41 AM EST
Based upon this analysis of the show, I get the feeling like it's never going to be good enough for you. If it were an exact copy of the UK version, you'd be slamming it for being a copycat. (Continued…)
Louisa
posted 10/29/08 @ 9:24 AM EST
Yep! Amen to that (im an atheist)
The plot lines are ridiculously unrealistic! such a shame.
Clem
posted 12/21/08 @ 1:07 AM EST
I would have to agree whole-heartedly with that post.
I enjoyed the first two seasons of the US version but they have forgotten what the show is about and the new series have become completely unoriginal and unrealistic. (Continued…)
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