Current Event #1

Article: “Trapped in the Cubicle”
Writer: Rob Sheffield
Source: Rolling Stone
Date: April 30, 2009

Critics are amazed that The Office has stood the test of time and has continued to make the audiences laugh for over five years. The show has probably lasted so long because the goof ball isn’t just the sidekick, he’s in charge. Michael Scott (Steve Carrel’s character) possesses the charm of the middle-American slob. Parks and Recreation is the first attempt to replicate the mockumentary magic that is The Office. Leslie Nope (Amy Poehler’s character) shows the same doofus in charge qualities as Scott. She is never fazed by insults because she is either too happy or oblivious to notice. Sheffield doesn’t think that the show is living up to the advertisements that claim “From the people who bring you The Office!” Rashida Jones (a former member of The Office cast) provides most of the show’s comic relief. The American adaption of The Office is much better than the British original version because it gives viewers a cozy sitcom feel.