Article first published as WILFRED Season 3 Premiere Review on Seat42F.

Grade: 92%

FX’s WILFRED is a series about a man figuring out who he is. Sure, there’s a guy in a dog suit that speaks to the protagonist, but as strange as the premise and stories sometimes are, the real heart of the show is finding yourself. It’s much more about how one gets to who one is than the end result. In the season three premiere tonight, “Uncertainty,” that’s what Ryan (Elijah Wood) attempts to do.

Each installment of WILFRED focuses on another part of Ryan’s psyche he must delve into and deal with. For a mentally healthy person, it’s rarely a bad idea to reflect and examine one’s own mind. For someone as unstable as Ryan, it’s a necessity. Only by figuring out who he is and forcing himself to mature and accept the world can he become a whole, happy person.

“Uncertainty” is actually an issue many completely sane people have trouble wrapping their heads around. After all, we are driven to know things for certain, and people tend to try to make connections or conclusions, even if there isn’t an easy one to be found. Ryan’s “Uncertainty” comes about concerning the existence of Wilfred (Jason Gann), the man in the dog suit, whom everyone else sees as a normal dog.

At the end of season two, Ryan finds a picture he drew as a child that somehow features a cameo of Wilfred. A photograph proves Wilfred was always in the picture, not added later. Is Wilfred only in Ryan’s mind? Is Wilfred an immortal magical creature? These are just two of the possibilities pondered in this season premiere. The answer isn’t revealed, nor does one expect it to. That will come at the series’ end, if at all.

Now, this half hour does not mess with one’s mind nearly as much as last year’s opener, in which reality wasn’t even clear to the viewer. Instead, it’s a more subtle, but just as interesting, quandary as Ryan digs into Wilfred’s past. Toss in The Office’s Angela Kinsey, Gaan delightfully pulling double duty on screen, and some hilarious historical tragedy gags (yes, you read that right), and it’s a very solid, very good season premiere.

I wish WILFRED chose only to air one episode tonight. Unlike most modern series, WILFRED is not one that should be consumed in a binge fashion. Each installment gives viewers something to ruminate on, both about the show, and about themselves. “Uncertainty” is such a terrific episode, I’d like time to digest it. So I recommend TiVo-ing the second half hour that will air this evening, “Comfort,” and watching it a day or two after you see the premiere.

That being said, I watched them back to back, and still found much to enjoy about both. In “Comfort,” Ryan looks for a place he can feel safe and secure. It’s not with Jenna (Fiona Gubelmann) and Drew (Chris Klein), who worry about him and try to set him straight. It’s not with Wilfred, obviously. So when a mailman (Zachary Knighton, Happy Endings) wants to hang out, Ryan accepts.

It’s a bad decision, to be sure, and not just because dogs like Wilfred and postmen are natural enemies, as this particular mail carrier is the opposite of a good influence. However, the fact that Ryan separates himself from a bad situation, and refuses to allow himself to have his decisions made for him, does show some growth. Ryan has become more assertive over the past couple of years, and this shows in “Comfort.”

Luckily, Ryan’s friends do want what’s best for him, and can back up when rebuffed. I very much enjoy the dynamic between Ryan and Jenna, especially now that it seems there will never be anything romantic between them, since she is happily married. It’s a little strange for a television show to not try putting its leads together, but she’s a good friend, and that’s what Ryan needs on his journey to self-fulfillment.

WILFRED is not my favorite show on television, but it’s a unique one that I never miss. It’s dark drama, intermixed with a touch of comedy, but not in an obvious way, makes for a compelling half hour, and there’s always much more going on than is visible on the surface. “Uncertainty” and “Comfort” are excellent examples of WILFRED’s quality and style, indicating that season three will be at least as good as the first two.

WILFRED airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on FX.

Raise an "A.A.R.M." for The Office

Article first published as Raise an "A.A.R.M." for The Office on TheTVKing.

Things have mostly gotten back to normal for The Office in "A.A.R.M.," a fine example of a classic episode, while still allowing those emotional, end-of-the-series plot developments to creep in. Jim (John Krasinski) plays a huge practical joke on Dwight (Rainn Wilson), Pam (Jenna Fischer) questions whether she's going to make Jim resent her, Kevin (Brian Baumgartner) gets jealous when baby Phillip is in the office, Andy (Ed Helms) tries out for a singing competition, and Darryl (Craig Robinson) tries, and fails, to leave without saying goodbye.

I love "A.A.R.M." because it has something for each member of the cast. While the main story sticks with the characters who have been front and center this season, the rest of the supporting players get focus and moments, too, both in the normal plot, and in their interview cut scenes. Yes, they are all sort of lumped together with saying goodbye to Darryl, but doesn't that just feel right, that they don't want to lose one of their own? Watching the culmination of the plot, where Stanley (Leslie David Baker), Phyllis (Phyllis Smith), Creed (Creed Bratton), Meredith (Kate Flannery), Erin (Ellie Kemper), Toby (Paul Lieberstein), Nellie (Catherine Tate), and the others dance with Darryl feels special.

Then, they all go to a bar together to watch the premiere of their documentary. What this episode reveals is that these people are a family. We've known it all along, of course, but the point is driven home now. They could be by themselves, watching the show on their own television sets. Instead, they choose to be together, off the clock, to face this new adventure among people that are their family. And hearing Michael Scott's voice in those final moments brings back the one person missing, making the clan complete. It's a perfect episode ending.

Even Andy attends the viewing party, as no matter what he does, he is one of them. Sure, he's gone all day, trying to be famous (which is a funny little side story with wonderful guest stars), but when all is said and done, he returns to the group.

Jim feels that his family in The Office is enough. Pam questions that she is holding him back, and she should feel bad, but he tells her this is his decision and he won't regret it. In fact, Jim does everything he can in "A.A.R.M." to prove that this is where he wants to be, with Pam, even getting the documentary crew to make a video tribute of the two of them over the years, and giving her a long-held-back card. It's hard to understand how Jim could give up his dreams and be happy, but seeing him with Pam, and with the others at the end of this week's installment, Pam, and I, finally believe it's true.

We don't need to know what's in the note. As not much has been in these people's lives, it's private.

It helps that Jim has his "brother," Dwight, around. Jim teases him mercilessly, tricking Dwight into being the assistant to his own assistant, and mimicking many of the things Dwight did when he was assistant to the regional manager. But there's no cruelty in it, the two seeing each other as comrades. Dwight seems to be in on the game, as, when Dwight really needs Jim, he tells him so, dropping the charade they have been perpetrating the entire hour.

Jim is there for Dwight when Dwight needs him. Dwight isn't sure if he should marry Esther (Nora Kirkpatrick), the woman who is perfect on paper, or Angela (Angela Kinsey), whom he has always carried a torch for. Jim helps Dwight figure out his feelings, and gives him sound advice, which Dwight acts on. To me, this is the culmination of everything there is between them, and it's a very satisfying story.

Angela doesn't make it easy for Dwight, refusing to acknowledge that Phillip is Dwight's son until Dwight proposes. This makes sense, as she doesn't want him with her out of obligation, but instead, out of love. Yes, this plot develops a little quickly, but at the same time, it's been years in the making. And seeing Dwight, Angela, and Phillip end things as a family is almost as satisfying as the final Jim / Dwight story. So thank goodness Dwight's spin-off did not get picked up, or this may not have been possible.

I also really enjoy the dynamic in Accounting when Angela brings in Phillip, with Kevin acting as the insecure big brother, growing jealous of the attention Angela and Oscar (Oscar Nunez) give the baby. For anyone else, this story could come across as dumb, but the three actors involved sell it so well, and the resolution is so perfect, that it is enjoyable, rather than annoying.

That's long been a theme of The Office, taking tales that, in lesser hands, wouldn't be funny, and creating characters that, without such brilliant performances, wouldn't be sympathetic, and making them both. It isn't just a realistic look at life in an office environment, but also a celebration of people that make things work, even when they shouldn't. Despite a recent rocky path, The Office is doing the finale right, and "A.A.R.M." is the perfect penultimate episode to set that up.

The Office concludes next Thursday, with a retrospective at 8 p.m. ET, followed by a one-hour-and-fifteen-minute episode, set six months after this one, at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

The Staff of The Office Are "Livin' the Dream"

Article first published as The Staff of The Office Are "Livin' the Dream" on TheTVKing.

NBC's The Office begins winding down to their series finale (airing May 16th) this week with "Livin' the Dream." Two weeks out from the release of the documentary, the staff considers what is important to them, and begins to think about where they want to be. For some, that means finally realizing something they have longer worked towards. For others, giving up one thing they love might be necessary to hang onto what they care about the most. And some are ready to take a leap of faith, no matter what it could cost them.

Dwight (Rainn Wilson) has always wanted to be the manager of the Dunder-Mifflin Scranton branch. When we are introduced to him, he isn't anywhere near ready to lead, and he has many rocky years of trying and failing to establish himself as a leader. Even a couple of years ago, after the departure of Michael Scott, Dwight has no idea what it means to really run an office, as we see during the brief time he grabs power.

But Dwight has grown a lot. In recent months, he has lost family members and found love. He has considered giving up the paper business altogether, but decided against it because his spin-off was not picked up. At least, right before the curtain closes on the series, he is ready for the job.

Not only does Dwight's promotion feel totally earned, he is supported by the entire staff in an incredibly sweet sequence. No one begrudges him the accomplishment, and even as he celebrates a bit too much, both after getting his black belt and this news from David Wallace (Andy Buckley), they are happy for him. They all know just how much he cares about their company, and Dunder Mifflin will be in good hands.

The best moments are between Jim (John Krasinski) and Dwight, naturally. There has long been an undercurrent of affection in their rivalry, with a relationship not unlike brothers. Jim recommends Dwight for the promotion, and could not be happier for his friend. Dwight getting Jim his desk back from Clark (Clark Duke) proves the feeling is mutual. And the interplay when Dwight offers Jim the position of assistant manager is not only a call-back to the earliest days of their ribbing, but a way to say "I love you" without saying it out loud, as men do. Perfect!

Of course, for Dwight to rise to that level, Andy (Ed Helms) must first be de-throned. David intends to fire him, only to have Andy quit first, set on following his dreams of being a performer. Everyone thinks this is a bad idea, and Andy waffles, temporarily accepting a return to the sales team, where he didn't flourish, but got by better than he has as manager. But in the end, passion trumps sense, and he makes a go at becoming famous.

I am a bit disappointed with Andy's trajectory. He works so hard at bettering himself, after being introduced as a terrible man, and then slips backwards in this final year. Andy does almost everything he can to leave with shame and pity, not good wishes. Even his excellent farewell performance doesn't make up for what he has done, nor promise him a successful career.

The Office will likely let Andy go "Livin' the Dream." I think the fact that he pulled out a song far better than what anyone expected was the writers' attempt to set him up to soar. However, realistically, it feels like Erin (Ellie Kemper) has the more likely prediction, that Andy will end up homeless and starving. What a tragic ending to a briefly beloved (during the middle of his run) character!

It's also sad to see what Jim is giving up. He makes Pam (Jenna Fischer) his priority, quitting work in Philly and telling Darryl (Craig Robinson) he won't go on the road. This shows us what a dedicated family man Jim is, and what he is willing to do for the love of his life. It's romantic, of course, and it paints Jim in a very good light. What's more, he seems at peace with his decision, like he will never regret making the choice that he does.

But he shouldn't have to make that choice. Pam is being selfish. Yes, Jim doesn't handle the start of the business well, in regards to consulting Pam. But she agrees to support him before they begin to fall apart. Her behavior, while somewhat coming from a place of love, is holding Jim back. With the opportunity now presenting itself, she needs to sacrifice, too. And, since she overhears the conversation between Darryl and Jim and knows is at stake, I think she will.

Many of the side characters remain side characters, and don't have their own subplots in "Livin' the Dream," nor will they likely in the next couple of weeks. The exception to this, though, is Angela (Angela Kinsey). Evicted and with her cats, whom she considers her babies, taken away, and realizing that she loves Dwight, who is with someone else, this is the lowest we've ever seen Angela. It's not easy to like her, but it's hard to watch her suffer.

Thankfully, Oscar (Oscar Nunez) steps in and offers her a place to stay and a shoulder to cry on. There's something poetic here, Angela being supported by the man who contributes to the downfall of her marriage. Oscar may be trying to make up for something, but there's also a kinship between them, both tossed aside by the same guy. It's special.

Most likely, The Office will see a reconciliation between Dwight and Angela, but I think this is the wrong move. Like with Andy, I wish they'd take a less predictable tact, with Dwight marrying the farm girl, and Angela becoming Oscar's roommate and best friend. Perhaps it isn't that realistic that Angela could learn to care about Oscar deeply (and platonically, of course), but that's what I'd really like to see. They could be like Karen and Jack from Will & Grace, living together for the rest of their days.

The end is near, and one can sense it in the air. At least before it goes, The Office has found a lot of what makes it special again. "Livin' the Dream" isn't perfect, and there are signs that the series finale won't be either. But it will make a lot of fans happy, and the emotional heft, barely begun to scratch the surface this week, should be significant.

The Office airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC for two more weeks.

Oh, and TVLine.com reported yesterday that Michael Scott will appear in the series finale!

The Office celebrates a "Dwight Christmas"

NBC's The Office continues the emotional journey of its final season. In "Dwight Christmas," Pam (Jenna Fischer) manipulates her co-workers into throwing Dwight's (Rainn Wilson) dream holiday celebration as a gift for Jim (John Krasinski). It works, and Jim is giddily amused. But when he cuts out early to head to Philadelphia for his new job, Dwight feels slighted, and calls off the celebration.

"Dwight Christmas" makes obvious what many of us have long suspected, and what The Office has allowed small glimpses of from time to time: Dwight and Jim have a brother-style relationship, at least in Dwight's eyes. He claims to hate Jim, but how hurt he is when Jim leaves tells a different tale. This proves not only a deep affection for the other man, but also how much Dwight is going to miss Jim when if he quits Dundler-Mifflin completely and moves away.

The Office may portray a dysfunctional family, but make no mistake about it, the co-workers do comprise a family. Every clan has their tiffs and disagreements, but in the end, they care about each other. Whether it's Oscar (Oscar Nunez) trying desperately to heal things with Angela (Angela Kinsey) after sleeping with her husband, or it's Phyllis (Phyllis Smith) and Stanley (Leslie David Baker) promising to help Jim out after giving him a ribbing, as they did last week, these people mean something to one another.

What better way to mark a final season than to demonstrate this? There is definitely starting to be a sense of an end in sight, with several characters considering paths that will take them away from the group. It's a shame, but it's also life, and viewers should be grateful for these people while we've had them. We've gotten to witness such a long stretch of their lives, and what they mean. It's very relatable, and as much as the employees may shed a tear in the end, so, too, should the fans at home, who have become invested, and may even feel like part of the family themselves.

During the party, Darryl (Craig Robinson) gets drunker and drunker, angry at Jim for seemingly forgetting about him in his new venture. It's a classic case of misunderstanding, as Jim hasn't forgotten to include him, but has not remembered to tell Darryl exactly what Jim has done for him. Yet, even while playing out such a familiar, unoriginal trope, "Dwight Christmas" still manages to be good because Robinson, along with his fellow actors, know how to sell the heart that beats at the center of the series.

Speaking of heart, a couple of relationship developments happen in "Dwight Christmas," too. Toby (Paul Lieberstein) senses some interest from Nellie (Catherine Tate), who may return the feelings. It's interesting that former boss, Michael's (Steve Carell), nemesis would get with new boss, Andy's (Ed Helms), foe, but there's also a bit of poetry in that. Plus, neither one has any other prospects in (or outside of) the office, and it's cool if they end up finding something in each other. Even if their co-workers might judge it the grossest pairing in the company.

Unfortunately, at the same time, a couple many are rooting for is falling apart. Andy is still MIA, not only continuing his run of being a bad, absentee manager, but also threatening things between himself and Erin (Ellie Kemper) by neglecting her. A lonely Erin falls sway, somewhat, to the charms of new guy Pete (Jake Lacy). It's hard not to think that Erin might be better off with Pete, who definitely cares about her, and at the same time, it's difficult to give up on Andy after everything we've seen from him over the years. It's a complicated, messy situation that will likely not resolve itself until the very end.

The Office, in its final season, is embracing the things that have made it so good in the past. This is a relief, considering the wandering, less-than-stellar past year. The show is taking its victory lap, and in doing so, has found itself again.

Watch The Office Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

Want to read some of my fiction? It's on my website, JeromeWetzel.com! Also, for the latest updates and article links, as well as commentary on episodes I don't fully review, please follow me on Twitter!

Article first published on TheTVKing

The Office lands "The Whale"

NBC's The Office continues its great final season this week with "The Whale." Dwight (Rainn Wilson) is given the opportunity to double Dundler Mifflin's growth when a new potential client asks for a meeting. Learning the meeting is with a woman, and knowing how bad Dwight is with relating to women, several of his female co-workers try to intervene and improve upon his manners. But no one is prepared when they learn who Dwight is actually being sent to talk with, and it will take everything Dwight has to land this impossible account.

Yep, Jan (Melora Hardin) is back! Jan is one of those character who is a delight every time she arrives on screen, mostly because she makes everyone squirm. This is the type of humor that The Office frequently lands, so it hits the perfect tone when it is returned to. We haven't seen Jan in awhile, so it's a great surprise (if you avoided NBC spoiler-filled promos), and the way it's played as a horror film moment when it slowly dawns on Pam (Jenna Fischer) and Dwight just whose office they are in is priceless.

This being the final season, we are likely to see a good many familiar faces in the coming weeks. Even former boss Michael (Steve Carell) is rumored to be making an appearance by series end. It's a well deserved victory lap, nine years in, to revisit these past people.

But it's not just done for nostalgia's sake. Jan's reemergence allows for a really good Dwight story. He may not be best at dealing with girls, but he is an expert salesman for a reason. Even Jan, who has absolutely no intention of dealing with her former employer, and is just taunting them, comes around to Dwight's skills when he uses what he knows about her to change her mind. Meaning, he dangles Clark (Clark Duke) as a sex object. And Dwight and Pam get a very nice friendship moment.

This continues the trend of giving the characters nice payoffs this year. While last season floundered as the company searched for a new manager, this year is back to the basics, exploring the main characters, reminding us who they are, allowing them to make some big decisions, and hopefully sending them on their way with sweet, satisfying endings.

There is drama. Jim (John Krasinski) is trying to start a business on the side. Andy (Ed Helms) is taking advantage of Erin (Ellie Kemper), driving her away. Angela (Angela Kinsey) seems to have realized that her husband, the Senator (Jack Coleman), is sleeping with Oscar (Oscar Nunez) and other men. But all this should be resolved, probably with happy results, by the end of the year. So rather than sweating it, as might have been done in earlier seasons, there's a sense that all of this is just the last few bumps in the road.

If you drifted away from The Office, as many have done, now might be a nice time to catch up. However it ends, it should be memorable.

The Office airs at 9 p.m. ET Thursdays on NBC.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Check out my website, JeromeWetzel.com! First posted on TheTVKing

Last day at The Office

NBC's The Office returned this week with "New Guys," the final season premiere of the long-running sitcom. It felt like the end, too. Sure, there were a couple of new staff members at Dunder Mifflin, but others have moved on, and a couple of the leads are contemplating their next step for their future. I don't know if this final season can make up for the mess of last year, but "New Guys" gets them off to a promising start.

Kelly (Mindy Kaling) is gone, whisked away to the glamor of Miami (Ohio) by her fiance, Ryan (B.J. Novak) trailing her and trying to pretend that he's not. I really wish there had been an entire episode where this played out, rather than a couple of scenes shown with voice over, but at the same time, Ryan and Kelly were never the focus of The Office. It's an appropriate ending for them, as far as the series is concerned, though I will miss them. (Kaling and Novak are both currently working on The Mindy Project, which premieres this Tuesday on FOX).

Jim (John Krasinski) considers moving on, too. A buddy of his is starting a business based on Jim's idea, and wants Jim to be a part of it. At first, Jim hesitates because it would mean moving his family and taking a big risk with their financial future. But when he sees what he has become through a new employee his co-workers dub "Young Jim" (Jake Lacy, Better With You), he decides that he must give it a shot.

Does Jim have the luxury of following his dreams now? Before having children, sure, as long as wife Pam (Jenna Fischer) is on board. As a creative person herself, she probably would be. Now that he has a couple of little mouths to feed, though, is it selfish of him to leave the security of the paper company to work on a venture that could fail? I guess it would depend on what kind of savings he has tucked away. But it's TV, and we're near the end, so anything can happen.

Dwight (Rainn Wilson) feels much the same as Jim when viewing his own "Young Dwight" (Clark Duke, Greek, Hot Tub Time Machine), but doesn't have the same prospects that Jim has. Learning Angela's (Angela Kinsey) baby isn't his adds to his misery. So, with no outlet for these feelings, Dwight acts out by trying to ride a bicycle on a wire off the roof of the building. It does not go well.

Most people who follow television know that Dwight is about to get his own spin-off called The Farm that will open a completely new chapter of his life. And he's ready for it. Dwight is no longer the same goober he once was, having grown as a person. He can't be held down by a menial job. He needs something more. It's time.

Seeing Dwight and Jim reach this point almost simultaneously is thrilling. These are two beloved characters who we have seen shaped over nine years. To be present at the time of major change is great, and it's nice that the writers are going to take their time with these plots, rather than just toss them in the last few episodes of the season. In this way, the conclusion should feel natural, and make watching The Office this entire time totally worth it.

In other plot, Andy (Ed Helms) comes back from leadership training more confident and in charge. This isn't good news for Nellie (Catherine Tate), whom Andy justifiably resents after she tried to steal his job. The thing is, as much as I've disliked Nellie, seeing Andy being such a bully to her makes me feel bad for her. This poor woman is just looking for an anchor to hold on to, and she has nowhere else to go. Hopefully, Andy will see that soon, and take pity on her. Having the bravado stripped away has humanized Nellie in a single episode. Terrific job.

Awesome throwback that Andy finally hates Toby (Paul Lieberstein) as much as Michael did! It seems like balance that I hadn't even noticed was off has been restored to the universe.

Lastly, it turns out that Oscar (Oscar Nunez) is having an affair with Angela's husband (Jack Coleman). I can't say that I didn't see this coming, but it's a regrettable turn of events. Unless Angela leaves with Dwight for the spin-off (she hasn't shown up in the current cast list), this leaves her with no happy ending. She is a miserable person, but no one deserves to be cheated on. It's not a bad story, but I'm still hoping the writers find a way to satisfactorily resolve this, and I have no idea what that could be.

Oh, and Creed (Creed Bratton) has gone completely insane, which doesn't bode well for the safety of anyone who works there. Might there be a death looming? Might he even be the infamous Scranton Strangler (assuming you don't believe the Jim Carrey theory).

The Office's final season continues Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Check out my website, JeromeWetzel.com! First posted on TheTVKing

The Office ends season with another shakeup

NBC's The Office presents "Free Family Portrait Studio," the season eight finale. All of the turmoil over who is in charge seems to finally be dying down. After a year of uncertainty, with Andy (Ed Helms) being selected as manager, only to lose the position to Nellie (Catherine Tate), who just takes it, Andy is left back in charge as the smoke clears. This probably won't change again, considering that David Wallace (Andy Buckley) now owns the company, having bought it back from Sabre.

This is a relief. The Office has suffered this season from not having clear leadership. Whatever kind of manager Michael (Steve Carell) is, he keeps things running, somehow. His absence is felt heavily, as season eight shows viewers that Dundler Mifflin does not run itself. Without a strong person in charge, it flounders.

Will Andy be that person? Probably. He isn't at the beginning of the season, but that is before he is fired. He has to fight hard to get back into the head office, and now that he's there, it's likely to be a different kind of leadership. He no longer has to prove himself. He is the one that gets David to buy the company, and so his position is secure for the time being. His co-workers didn't fight for him all that much, so he doesn't owe them anything. The Andy who will run the show next year should be a markedly different Andy than season eight contains.

If Ed Helms stays with The Office. And if The Office is renewed. Which it probably will be, but has not been yet. Helms' contract is up, and he has not signed on for another year. One presumes, since his character is the boss once more, the actor will want to stay. But television is a fickle industry, and one never knows for sure.

One thing is certain: Robert California (James Spader) is gone. Spader only wanted to do The Office for one year, and with "Free Family Portrait Studio," his tenure is complete. How his character convinced Wallace to foot the bill for three years of seducing young, vulnerable Eastern European and Asian college girls is a mystery, but he is just that smooth a talker.

Dwight (Rainn Wilson) will also not be returning, as he gets his own spin-off, likely to premiere in January. Hopefully Wilson will be in a couple of episodes to tie up the character's arc, and it would also be nice if Angela (Angela Kinsey) goes with him, once the parentage of her baby is outed. Who else might join that cast? Surely, Nate (Mark Proksch)? And Mose (Michael Schur)?

Similarly, Kelly (Mindy Kaling) will be departing, though her new sitcom is looking at a fall schedule spot, which might not leave time for her to offer much of a goodbye.

Not yet signed for next season are Jim (John Krasinski), Pam (Jenna Fischer), and Ryan (B.J. Novak), the rest of the characters featured in the theme song. If they all choose to leave, too, there is no telling what next season will look like. If they depart without any closure, with season nine premiering and they are just gone, it will be a betrayal for millions of fans of The Office, who have followed the series so closely. They don't have to re-up for the season, but they do need to make some appearances.

But for now, let's get back to "Free Family Portrait Studio." It's a fun little episode, with David's tardiness spoiling Andy's big moment. Then Nellie spoils it further, knocking the wind out of Andy's gloating, so much so that he agrees to make her Head of Special Projects. Does he even have the power to do that? Anyway, it's sad, because Andy is once more screwed up by fate, putting himself out there, and being disappointed.

There are some very funny moments in this episode. One is when Jim fears Dwight will hurt his children. Another is Erin (Ellie Kemper) starting to believe that Andy may be hallucinating David Wallace. And, of course, there's Robert's announcement concerning the new "career" he is about to embark on. This is the kind of funny that The Office excels at, and even with the many changes that have come up, the show can still deliver.

Perhaps most triumphant in "Free Family Portrait Studio" is Darryl (Craig Robinson). Not only do a couple of his former warehouse employees come groveling back to him after squandering their lottery earnings, but by making a vocal declaration of his feelings for Val (Ameenah Kaplan), he wins her away from her boyfriend. The Office features many characters who just don't get what they want in life, slaving away at a paper company they care little about. Victories are few and far between. To see Darryl really get to a good place in "Free Family Portrait Studio" is incredibly satisfying.

If renewed, The Office should return to NBC next fall.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! To buy The Office DVDs, streaming episodes, and other merchandise, please click here.

Don't bring your children to The Office

This week's outing of NBC's The Office is called "Jury Duty" because that's what Jim (John Krasinski) says he is doing when he misses a week of work. But Dwight (Rainn Wilson) grows suspicious, and goes on a quest to get his nemesis fired. Knowing he's in trouble, Jim confesses the truth to Andy (Ed Helms), that he was at home with his kids, who only makes things worse by trying to continue the cover up. Luckily, before Dwight can get corporate involved, he stops by the hospital and sees Angela's (Angela Kinsey) baby, who looks an awful lot like a Schrute. Suddenly, Dwight has the much more important thing of fatherhood to worry about than a feud with Jim.

It's long been known to viewers that Angela's husband, The Senator (Jack Coleman), is gay. But until the baby is born a "month early," at over nine pounds, it's unclear whether somehow he impregnated her or not. Why the Senator remains oblivious to the truth of the matter is unknown, but perhaps he is so caught up in his lie that he doesn't question it. Presumably he does have sex with Angela at least once, so it could be his, right?

Angela and Dwight's relationship has been a very slow burn over the years. Never getting too much focus in The Office, there has always been something special between them. Even as Angela tries to push Dwight away, it's hard not to hope that they will be together. They are strange in very different ways, and yet, their pairing works somehow. Both have taken turns being in pursuit of the other. This baby born in "Jury Duty" changes everything, and could possibly set up a happy ending for the two. Which would be ideal. Though, given how The Office has handled things so far, it could be years before Angela even acknowledges publicly that the baby is Dwight's. That would be a shame, because it's likely that The Office will be off the air by then.

Unless Dwight is wrong. However unlikely that possibility seems, it is a possibility. While the timing lines up much better for the child to belong to Dwight, there is always the chance that, in the end, he could be wrong. Dwight surely sees what he wants to see in the child's features, and often thinks he knows things that he doesn't. Mightn't the more unexpected and exciting option be that the baby is not Dwight's?

Nah.

Being a daddy finally gives Dwight a way to connect to Jim. Dwight always has a fondness for Pam (Jenna Fischer), but it's not until he learns he is a father that he shows any respect towards Pam's husband. Now, this stuff in "Jury Duty" will not herald a new dawn between the two; they will always hate each other. Dwight is only kind in a moment of weakness because of his own excitement. But a new understanding could crop up, and that could change their interaction in a way that no one quite knows yet. It would be an interesting cap to a long-standing rivalry.

Lots of laughs this week, too. Some "Jury Duty" comedy highlights: Kevin (Brian Baumgartner) begins calling Angela's baby "Little Kevin." Oscar (Oscar Nunez) once more is shown to be ridiculous in how he "prepares" his co-workers to see the "premature" baby. The staff's anger at Jim for lying turns to distaste for his kids, whom they can't wait to send away. Ryan (B.J. Novack) agrees that Angela having a black baby would be slightly more exciting than a Chinese one. Creed (Creed Bratton) thinks Pam has brought in Angela's baby, or possible that Pam is Angela. Wonderful episode!

     The Office airs Thursdays nights at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

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The Office makes "The List" of favorite shows

     When NBC's The Office returns with "The List," a new boss has finally been named. Andy (Ed Helms), a failure as a salesman, now gets the corner officer overlooking the workers. Next door in the conference room, new CEO Robert California (James Spader, Boston Legal) has also moved in, and been added to the opening credits.  The staff finds a list Robert has made, separating them into two columns. When he invites one side of the list to lunch, they begin panicking that he has sorted them into winners and losers, a fact that he confirms. Andy proves his mettle by standing up for his employees.

     Andy was my second choice for boss, after Pam (Jenna Fischer), but considering she will still get plenty of other plot, he's a good choice. He wasn't really contributing much to the company in his former position. He is educated and has proper qualifications. He cares about the people that work there. His willingness to stand up to Robert is exactly why he deserves this promotion, pointing out the value of (almost) every single employee on the payroll. Helms is a fine comedic actor, and definitely deserves his increased role. He will likely work out very well, bringing a bumbling, yet different, direction. The only downside is this means he probably can't be with Erin (Ellie Kemper), at least for now, as that would just open things up for a sexual harassment lawsuit.

     Spader's addition is also welcome. His character is hilarious in last year's season finale, and works even better as a regular cast member. He shakes things up, but not too much. While he does judge his workers, he also seems like he will keep an open mind if he is wrong. He is certainly having doubts about Andy's promotion until the end of the episode, where he looks impressed by Andy's rant. Robert will allow the series to continue to grow, without ruining everything that makes it best. And if The Office gets canceled at the end of the year, perhaps he will extend his The Practice / Boston Legal trend and headline a spin off.

     How Dwight (Rainn Wilson) will ultimately take being passed over remains to be seen. Wilson has mastered the character in ways unexpected and exciting. He is upset, obviously, but is willing to be Andy's number two man; his enforcer. There is a certain subtle resignation to his lot in life that shows up in Dwight in "The List." It's a little sad, but he is just not temperamentally suited for the position. He has many good qualities, and management in other areas may work for him. But not here, with these people.

    It's a little baffling that Robert doesn't think Pam is a valuable asset, given everything that she does. And Kevin (Brian Baumgartner) made the list?! But Jim's (John Krasinski) incredibly sweet gesture of his own list, and the way he stands by his family, more than makes up for any misjudgments Robert might make about Pam.

     Jim and Pam are expecting again! This time, Pam really looks pregnant. Apparently, many months have passed over the hiatus, as she can't possibly only be three or four months along. It's kind of refreshing that the attention and reaction to this second child is more subdued, as fits with reality. Their lives continue, and their family grows. Might Pam seriously talk Jim into naming the baby after Michael? Distance does make the heart grow fonder.

     The question is, is Angela (Angela Kinsey) also actually with child, considering that her "lover" is gay, or is she faking it? If she isn't faking it, who is the father? Is it too much to hope for it to be Dwight?

     The essential element of The Office is the large, zany ensemble. "The List" does not disappoint with continued antics, as the episode opens with several employees practicing planking, a current internet trend. This is completely in character, and it's little bits like this that make The Office so charming.

     The Office airs Thursdays nights at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter!

     To buy The Office DVDs, streaming episodes, and other merchandise, please click here.

The Office Ricky Gervais Stunt Disappointing

     Fans of the British version of The Office have longed for Ricky Gervais' David Brent to stop by NBC's American remake for years, making it an official spin-off instead of just a remake. The news came that it was finally happening in this week's episode, and I got very excited. Looking back, it was said that Gervais would appear only in the opening, but the result was still a wasted opportunity! The show could easily have built an episode around him, not to mention an entire multi-episode arc, if they wanted to. Instead, we just got David and Michael (Steve Carell) talking weirdly to each other for a few seconds.

     I try not to look a gift horse in the mouth, and I am still thrilled that Gervais appeared at all. I'm sure the fact that it was a small part was of his choosing. However, there was no explanation for how or why David was where he was; really, no story at all. As one of the most unique TV characters of all time (before he was imitated repeatedly by others), David Brent is a very entertaining creation that deserves more. Not only that, but I was still trying to decide if Gervais was really bringing the Brent I know and love alive when his short scene ended. I'm not convinced he really acted the character, at least not as well as he used to. I can't help but feel it was too quickly done and that a longer part would have captured Brent better.

     Other than the opening, though, it was another excellent episode in this strong season of The Office. With Carell's episode count dwindling (he will be leaving the series for good four episodes before the season finale), Michael Scott has gotten more focus that ever. The arc most people want to see tied up is Michael's love for Holly Flax (Amy Ryan). Michael's other ex-girlfriends were all brought back earlier in the season and sent off one last time, but Holly is more than that. Holly is his soul mate, and the last few episodes have only confirmed that point. She actually gets Michael, and enjoys his zany antics. What more can you ask for in a partner?

     Holly is back at Dunder Mifflin Scranton, and has recently broken up with her long-term boyfriend, the one she got after she and Michael split following her transfer to a far-away branch of the company. The seeds have been sewn, and it seems that Holly is falling once more for Michael. Their interactions this week were heartwarming, especially Holly's brief comment to the camera, which was more about the look on her face than what she said. Or didn't say, for that matter. I predict a ride off into the sunset for the two of them, an  event many fans want to see. I think Michael will get the ending he deserves.

     I am hoping that Michael is not replaced by an outsider to the show, and I am pretty confident at this point that that will not happen. Writers on The Office have pledged more of an ensemble piece, with all of the very talented support staff getting more plot, following Carell's departure. The four episodes after Carell leaves will see the return of company owner Jo (Kathy Bates, who will be done filming the first season of Harry's Law by then) as she searches for a replacement, and various characters battle for the job and Will Ferrell will be doing a multi-episode arc as well.  My vote is for Darryl (Craig Robinson) to take over the office, as I think he will best be able to handle the mix of professional and personal relationships within it. As sad as Carell leaving is, I'm excited about this concept.
 
     The final season has not been all about Michael.  Jim (John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer) haven't gotten much of a story though after they've gotten very large arcs in the past couple of years. Instead, we have been getting tons more Andy (Ed Helms), Dwight (Rainn Wilson), Darryl, and Erin (Ellie Kemper). Dwight is an old hand, and Andy was added years ago, though only recently to the opening credits. Darryl has been around since 2005, but once he got an office upstairs, has had so much more involvement with everyone. Erin is pretty new to the cast.  All three however shine so well when let out.

     Andy has lost every woman he ever goes after, and his would-be relationship with Erin is no different. Yet, unlike Angela (Angela Kinsey), there is actually some hope that Andy can get Erin back from Gabe (Zach Woods). In this week's episode, Erin was once again losing a game of Scrabble to Gabe, which meant that Gabe got to choose their movie night film, and he never chooses anything Erin wants to see.  Unlike Gabe, Andy understands Erin, they have complementary interests, and Andy would let her take as many turns choosing as she wants. Gabe and Erin have been portrayed as not working too well, which can only mean one thing: a happy ending is not out of the question for Andy and Erin. Andy just needs some more confidence to win her back, something he was building this week with the seminar he held this week.

     Dwight has undergone enormous growth. As owner of the building that they all work in, Dwight tried his own tricks and crazy leadership 'skills.' They failed. He tried outmaneuvering Andy again this week, and again, he failed. Dwight is at his best when he is actually showing compassion and bonding with the other characters, especially Pam. While a Dwight - Angela rekindling, which I have hoped for, is apparently not in the offing anytime soon, Dwight is showing real feelings of fondness for most of his co-workers. The gradual softening of Dwight has been a triumph, but he still has a long way to go. I just don't see his changes to this point being enough to get him the boss's job, despite his British counterpart having become Brent's replacement.

     The above are only some of the great characters showcased in the series, and The Office is as good as its ever been. Please watch it Thursday nights at 9pm on NBC.

Article first published as TV Review: The Office - Ricky Gervais Stunt Disappointing on Blogcritics.


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