The Dundies

Every every episode in season 1 had either 2 cringe-inducing plots, or one cringe, one funny. This episode changes what the show could be. This episode instead goes for smart/enjoyable humour, making it a much more likeable sitcom. And Michael changes from a self-righteous boss to a heartwarming friend in the office, even if the workers don't like him back.

In first season and even in first episode I've stated that it could be relatable even today. Well, about this episode I can't say the same. It felt outdated, lack of humour, I can even say bad choice for opening season with this type of episode. You can close season but not open. Bad decision, that's all.

Throughout the first season of the show, it was desperately trying to copy the UK version when it came to the way characters acted (you could see some early Pam, Jim and Dwight scenes in season 1 where their personalities were somewhat defined) but this was the official change. You can really see the characters distance themselves from their British counterparts starting in this episode. Michael really changed starting here. He went from the cocky boss to someone who really cares about his co-workers and that change is evident starting here. The episode itself is one of my favorites, a lot of jokes and awkwardness (The good kind) and you also get some Jim and Pam scenes in here where it is clear they should be together. This is definitely a classic episode.

One of those great early episodes that distinguished this from the the wonderful UK original. This episode la is the subtle humor of the original series but, let's face it, is really funny, well-written, and well-acted.

If only the show could have stayed like this to the end.

The only problem I have with the episode is none of the above. It's about the stranglehold that corporations have upon commercial content. Chili's would not lend their name to the episode unless we had that disclaimer in the form of a talking head where the Chili's employee tells us Pam was not over served but was sneaking drinks from other people. Because it's not Chili's policy to over serve. For god's sake. Really? True, having a real restaurant adds something to the show but that was silly clause.

Otherwise, one of the best episodes and a great start to Season Two.

Alright, I liked The Office Season 1. It was good. A little weird, a little stiff, but I saw the potential. But The Dundies? This is where it clicked. This is where the show stopped being "pretty funny" and became something I genuinely love.

This episode just gets it. But more than that, this is the first time it really feels like these people are more than just coworkers. There's actual warmth here. They feel like a weird, dysfunctional little family you somehow want to be part of.

Michael, for all his cringe and nonsense, has these small flashes of vulnerability. He wants people to like him. He wants to be loved. And even if he's the worst boss ever, you kinda get it. You kinda feel for him. That's what this episode does so well, it balances the ridiculous with something real.

This was the turning point for me. The moment where I stopped just watching The Office and started actually feeling it. This episode made me care.

Final thoughts?

It's funny. It's sweet. It's lowkey sad in that relatable way. But above all, it's honest.

And that's what makes it special for me.