The Office (US) Season 2 Review


Take Two.

The Office (US) improves immeasurably in its second outing, focusing more explicitly on its diverse range of characters to create a deeper sense of plot, whilst also refining its comedy to near-perfection.

The show achieves all of this by striving to forge its own path, rather than imitating its British counterpart. The script feels more naturally adapted to its American locale, pursuing a different sort of humour which encourages laughs rather than cringe. This is blended with a desire to create each episode as if it were a mini-arc for the characters involved. This heightened focus on emotional investment makes watching the twenty odd episodes so much more rewarding.

 In terms of plot points and character arcs this season, I was impressed with how the show handled Jim and Pam. I was completely unable to connect to Jim in the first season, for reasons mentioned in my series review. However, the problems were rectified in this sophomore outing for the show, as Jim is presented as much more fallible and therefore more human, in his attempts to pursue Pam despite the seeming hopelessness of his task. It culminated in him revealing his feelings to the woman he loves, which was a scene emboldened by the fact that Pam rejected him. Seeing the character cry again enabled me to connect with him as a man who has seen himself fail and must now pick himself up. Unfortunately, Jim then went and forced a kiss on Pam, which seemed a strange albeit dramatic way to end the season. It will be interesting to see where the writers take their relationship in season 3!

 Dwight and Angela were the standout secondary couple this season, as the unlikely duo grew closer as their physical relationship progressed. Due to the strangeness of both characters, there were many sweet moments shared between them as they bonded over their similarities. I hope the show continues to build on their story, as I am more invested in them than Jim and Pam at the moment.

 Michael was naturally the star of the show once again, with his antics causing no end of chaos and laughter. I liked how the writers encouraged the viewer to empathise with the dorky boss as he attempted to do right by saying all the wrong things. Delving into Michael's love life was also a smart decision, as it added another dimension to his already complex character. Whilst I'm not sure Jan is right for him, it was sweet seeing their many romantic interactions and brilliantly scripted public interactions, in which Michael would be incredibly inappropriate towards Jan in the work place.

 The supporting characters are also all worth mentioning, with a wide range of personalities clashing on a daily basis. Stanley is probably my favourite supporting member, with his sass and savagery never failing to crack me up. Kelly and Ryan's relationship is amusing, particularly when the former verges on obsession when discussing her boyfriend (if they are actually an item? It's very hard to tell haha). Creed was also a highlight of this series, popping up every other episode with a gem of a one-liner which almost always lands.

 Overall, this second season is what The Office (US) is meant to be. The show clearly hit its stride here, with a hilarious collection of episodes and a brilliant cast of characters. The plot is more integral here than in season one and the show is all  the better for it. If they can maintain this comedic style alongside interesting story telling, then I will have to rank this show as one of my favourite comedies alongside the greats, such as Parks and Recreation  and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

 RATING: 8.7/10

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