The Office: Company Picnic [season finale]
By fred | May 15, 2009
(S05E26) The one thing that become evident during the course of the season, and within this episode, is how much things have changed, evolved, ever since the show first started. Back then, Michael was just somewhat of an imbecile, or would easily be thought as one. He was irresponsible and just looking to be “the best boss ever,” loved and admired by his employee best friends.
Today, he is still Michael Scott of course, but he has evolved, and over time we’ve grown to know him better and to see what was hiding behind this clown’s mask. Which is why, during this episode, when Michael started to explain his “plan” and we knew it couldn’t possibly go right, when it was clear chances were he would make a fool of himself, possibly humiliate himself, and most definitely get hurt, we really didn’t want that to happen.
And, because Michael has evolved, especially with his beloved Holly, back for the occasion, Michael did no such thing. He wanted to tell her that list that didn’t make no sense even to him, he wanted to tell her they were soul mates and should get back together, but he could see, in the end, that it wasn’t meant to be said, not today. So Michael stayed quiet, and just tried to enjoy the most of this day, spending time with the girl who couldn’t be more perfect for him.
But it’s not just the characters have evolved and writers completely know them and trust their actors at this point, it’s also that said actors are incredibly talented. What was so great about seeing Michael and Holly back “together” if only for one day, was that everybody knew. We knew Michael wanted to tell her all those things, and it was clear Holly knew it too, and Michael knew she knew.
But they also both knew it wasn’t the time or the place, and they said nothing. Yet, because they work so well together, that never resulted in any awkward moment of silence, where no one knows what to do or say. It was great to see her back, and to see Michael mature enough not to blow it.
I have to say, though, that that “sketch” of “SlumDunder Mifflinaire” was not funny, and it lasted a bit too long. It was like on SNL, when someone had an idea they liked for a name, of a character or the sketch, but they don’t have anything else. Still, they go on and write something that’s just not funny and drags on for way too long. And while I can totally see Michael, even the “new” and mature Michael, go on with the closing branch announcement, because he just wants to impress Holly and be loved and he thinks he’s the funniest man alive, so all other concerns don’t stand a chance, Holly usually keeps a foot on the ground.
She remains a little professional, and she should have seen that if employees were there having fun with corporate, they obviously didn’t know. Plus, let’s imagine they did know and yet showed up, you really think what they wanted to hear what people pointing at them and laughing, “haha, you’re unemployed!” ?? Come on.
In the end though, the blame is on Wallace, because if he doesn’t know by now that telling a secret Michael Scott is a great way to make it public, well, he is the one not thinking straight.
The other big event/news of the episode was of course the end, and Pam and Jim finding out they’re pregnant! Once again, and with no words actually spoken (or heard), both Jenna Fisher and John Krasinski were absolutely brilliant (especially Jim) ! I am not sure what will happen next, as this is sure to change a lot of things around the office, but after this brilliant season and how the only complaint I could have regarding the Michael Scott Paper Company plot would be that it was too short, I completely trust the writers this will be amazing, once again.
As for this episode, it had its moments (like Pam’s look while Jim is reconsidering her “you don’t grab these for balance”), we saw a possible reconciliation for Dwight & Angela, Andy still going after Erin, Stanley enjoying himself for a change (getting drunk help), or Charles still going after Jim, but overall I felt like it wasn’t as funny as the show can be. Again, that comedy sketch from Michael & Holly was long and not really funny. Also, I blame the lack of Creed, even just a few seconds of him makes a lot.
Overall though, a great episode, and a terrific season, I just can’t wait to see what will happen next!
What did everybody else think?
Posted in Reviews
Shows: The Office
