So, I just finished watching the Office UK, and it was brilliant! 5 stars, because in it’s own right it deserves it. It’s different then the US version and shorter, but greater for it. It’s darker, it’s more raunchy, the characters are less likable. I think because the English audience can handle that in their mainstream. I’m a testament to the american mentality, that I enjoy characters that have a decent portion of lovableness. But the characters in the UK version were real, just real ..ass holes, all of them kind of, but it was hilarious, awkward, and racist. lol but true and great.

I have to say though, I do like the US version more. I think they took the source material used it very wisely. (At least for the first 5 seasons) The way they handled Jim and Pam and Micheal Scott’s character I can appreciate even more now. Even though the characters are derivative, they take a life of there own. Slowly the american version fleshed out the entire office, rather than just a few and even created the infamous Toby. A character archetype that has been duplicated in mocumentaries since. The characters also took a life of there own in the American culture, and that’s another reason I believe the US version struck me better. The Office at it’s very nature is subtle, awkward humor. Which is many times based on cultural context. No doubt someone who grew up English would more appreciate the cultural jokes, the phrasing and the other very British subtleties. I enjoyed it regardless. But there were definitely moments of heavy slang rambles I couldn’t quite understand.

Now I honestly just want to binge watch The Office again. I can appreciate it that much more. It’s just such a great show, and it would have never happened if it weren’t for it’s darker, more raw and realistic UK counter part. Thanks Ricky.