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The 20 Best Episodes of The Office

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2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the popular NBC sitcom, “The Office”, a mockumentary series that initially drew inspiration from its UK counterpart. Since wrapping up in 2013, its reputation has soared, leading to numerous podcasts by cast members. It’s widely adored; in fact, it was reportedly the most-streamed show on Netflix in 2020, as evidenced by countless dating app profiles seeking their own “Jim” or “Pam”.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’d like to share my top picks from The Office – 20 episodes that never fail to lift my spirits or serve as a soothing lullaby when I’ve watched the series countless times. These gems are always at the ready for a mood boost or a comforting evening watch.

Season 1, Episode 2: “Diversity Day”

The TV show “The Office” really gained popularity during Season 2 as it developed its unique identity. However, the initial six episodes of Season 1 still have their share of memorable moments, particularly after the first episode which was a direct American adaptation of the original British pilot. The subsequent episode, marking the start of original writing, generates plenty of laughter from an inappropriate rendition of Chris Rock’s well-known “N—-s vs. Black People” stand-up routine by Michael Scott. This results in a compulsory diversity training session led by Larry Wilmore’s sensitivity trainer, which Michael, as usual, manipulates to his advantage.

Season 2, Episode 1: “The Dundies”

As a film enthusiast, I must say that the start of Season 2 marks a pivotal moment for the show, transcending Pam’s tipsy speech at Chili’s and lip-lock with Jim. This transition brought about a fresher look with brighter lighting, an expanded role for the supporting cast, and a revamped portrayal of Michael, making him less antagonistic and more empathetic compared to his first season persona. The new, slightly upgraded regional manager gets his moment in the limelight at the annual office awards show, stumbling as an MC until he receives some liquored-up motivation from his favorite receptionist.

Season 2, Episode 11: “Booze Cruise”

In simpler terms, the scenario is a combination of a party cruise and leadership workshop – reminiscent of Michael Scott’s unique ideas. His petty jealousy towards the ship captain mirrors typical Michael Scott behavior. However, the most unforgettable Michael moment in this episode occurs during his heart-to-heart with Jim, when Jim confesses his feelings for Pam who is still engaged. Initially clueless, Michael’s reaction becomes a classic quote, stating “engaged isn’t married” and encouraging Jim to “never, ever, ever give up.

Season 2, Episode 12: “The Injury”

One memorable early episode centers around a humorous what-if scenario: imagine if Michael scorched his foot on a George Foreman Grill! Witnessing him struggle through this miserable, unpleasant, utterly terrible, extremely unfortunate day remains entertaining, and it’s even more enjoyable knowing how everyone else finds the situation amusing. What truly elevates the episode is when Michael’s self-pity over his injury turns into an odd form of possessiveness upon learning about Dwight’s real concussion (from a car accident while trying to aid Michael, you should know). This takes the episode to another level altogether.

Season 2, Episode 22: “Casino Night”

Season 2, often considered as the series’ finest, is framed by two episodes where Jim and Pam share a kiss, culminating in a cliffhanger after Jim confesses his love for Pam and their first genuine kiss in the finale penned by Steve Carell. Although it would be another season before they officially became a couple (with Pam still engaged and Jim seeking a transfer to Stamford), this is one of the most significant and triumphant moments in the show’s history. Moreover, the romantic tension doesn’t end there; during the special episode, Jan longed for Michael at a charity casino night where he attended with another date – his realtor Carol (portrayed by Nancy Walls, Carell’s real-life spouse).

Season 3, Episode 9: “The Convict”

In a series overflowing with eccentric characters, Prison Mike – Michael’s former convict persona characterized by a purple bandana – stands out as one of the most memorable and absurd. This character, like many of Michael’s schemes, was initially birthed from a good-hearted intention to support Martin Nash (played by Wayne Wilderson), an employee who served time for insider trading. However, it quickly morphed into a mission to demonstrate that prison isn’t superior to the office, leading him to overreact excessively to office jokes, such as claiming “The worst part about prison was the Dementors.” Unsurprisingly, Martin decides to resign by the end of the storyline.

Season 3, Episode 10 and 11: “A Benihana Christmas”

Among the show’s most memorable Christmas episodes, this extended version takes center stage (with “Christmas Party” from Season 2 trailing closely). It spins around two competing office holiday parties, one orchestrated by Angela’s Planning Committee and another planned by Pam and Karen, whose sudden friendship leaves Jim feeling uneasy. Additionally, it showcases Michael’s post-split excursion to Benihana with Andy, Jim, and Dwight, culminating in Michael using a Sharpie to mark an Asian waitress at the office to distinguish her from Andy’s date. Though questionable in taste, this action aligns perfectly with Michael’s character as an oblivious fool.

Season 3, Episode 19: “The Negotiation”

Michael and Darryl are one of the most underappreciated duos in the TV series “Office”, and it’s a pleasure to see them collaborate to achieve salary increases. However, this episode also marks the end of Pam and Roy’s relationship forever, as Roy attempts to fight Jim for kissing Pam during “Casino Night” – a conflict that never really starts when Dwight uses pepper spray on him prematurely. A significant part of the enjoyment of the episode lies in Jim’s unusual expressions of genuine appreciation towards Dwight, who is unwilling to accept his compliments.

Season 3, Episode 20: “Safety Training”

Michael’s visit to the rooftop serves as a poignant portrayal of depression and suicidal thoughts, culminating in the iconic “Dwight, you ignorant slut” quote. However, it’s also amusing to observe how he handles his bruised ego after the warehouse workers mock an office safety seminar. This episode is filled with memorable scenes, such as a watermelon landing on Stanley’s car and Dwight ostracizing Andy.

Season 3, Episode 23: “Beach Games”

Michael’s beach contest to select a possible successor isn’t just entertaining for fans of the TV series Survivor, as the competition is modeled after; it’s a timeless installment, particularly renowned for the sumo wrestling and the twist in the Jim/Pam/Karen romantic entanglement. Pam dashing across hot coals barefoot is remarkable, but her most significant display of growth is the unusually frank speech she delivers to her colleagues, chiding them for neglecting her art exhibition and accusing Jim of weakening their friendship.

Season 3, Episode 24 and 25: “The Job”

This episode marks the point where Jim and Pam officially become a couple permanently! The finale also offers a sneak peek into Dwight’s management style as regional manager, featuring Schrute Bucks incentives, among other things. It also hints at Ryan’s new position in Season 4, when he is offered Jan’s previous job. However, the most memorable scenes revolve around their romantic storyline, such as Jim asking Pam out during an unexpected moment.

Season 4, Episode 1 and 2: “Fun Run”

In the fourth season’s opening, it’s delightful to see Jim and Pam sneakily dating instead of their usual will-they-won’t-they dance. However, the humor in this episode really shines with Michael unintentionally running over Meredith, leading to a charity 5k for rabies prevention. Notable moments include Dwight informing Angela that he put her cat Sprinkles to sleep and Andy’s shirt revealing his bleeding nipples.

Season 4, Episode 12: “The Deposition”

Michael Scott might not always be a likable character, yet his connection with Jan significantly enhances the show’s appeal because her harshness stirs our compassion for him. A prime example is when she compels him to testify against Dunder Mifflin during the deposition, revealing her ruthlessness. To strengthen her wrongful termination claim and demonstrate their lack of prior relationship, Jan even submits her boyfriend’s personal diary without Michael knowing that she had given him a poor performance review after they started dating. This memorable quote emphasizes the betrayal: “You expect to get betrayed by your company, but you never expect to get betrayed by your girlfriend.” Another entertaining subplot involves Kelly criticizing Jim’s ping pong skills.

Season 4, Episode 13: “Dinner Party”

Among the hardest-to-watch episodes of “The Office”, this awkward gem stands alongside “Scott’s Tots”. It unfolds during a dinner for couples at Michael’s condo, where his and Jan’s relationship troubles are starkly displayed. Michael appears as a pitiful, oblivious victim to Jan’s controlling tendencies and self-centered behavior. In this scene, we see Michael boasting about his small plasma TV, describing a wine’s “oaky aftertaste”, Jan confusing Pam for an ex and rival for Michael’s affections, and Dwight bringing a former babysitter as his date. Here, all characters are at their best (or worst).

Season 4, Episode 18 and 19: “Goodbye, Toby”

Is there a farewell bash organized for Toby prior to his departure to Costa Rica? Did Jim’s plan to propose to Pam get overshadowed by Andy proposing to Angela instead? Does Ryan end up getting detained for fraud? This season finale is packed with surprises, but the most significant event is the arrival of the captivating HR representative Holly Flax (played by Amy Ryan), who eventually becomes Michael’s love interest.

Season 5, Episode 14 and 15: “Stress Relief”

It’s likely that in the last ten years, you’ve come across brief clips from a two-part episode on your social media feeds featuring an office fire simulation by Dwight. This episode is significant for Dwight, as he not only demolishes a CPR mannequin but also adorns its face, reminiscent of Hannibal Lecter. A large portion of the episode focuses on Michael’s self-roast, which predictably goes awry when his colleagues find it excessively amusing.

Season 5, Episode 25: “Broke”

For the final three or four seasons of The Office, it was challenging to maintain the storyline’s freshness, but Season 5 managed to avoid this problem with the engaging Michael Scott Paper Company storyline. This series of episodes brought a burst of energy to the show by introducing a new antagonistic manager named Charles Miner, played by Idris Elba. In the finale of this arc, Michael achieves one of his most significant victories yet by demonstrating some real business skills. He successfully convinces David Wallace to rehire him, Pam, and Ryan, providing a highly rewarding conclusion.

Season 5, Episode 28: “Company Picnic”

This season finale brings about major shifts with plenty of chuckles. Pam discovers she’s expecting, causing Michael to show some awkwardly funny jealousy towards Holly’s boyfriend A.J. An emotional moment occurs when Michael and Holly present a skit (“SlumDunder Mifflinaire”), unintentionally revealing the closure of the Buffalo branch due to the economic downturn. A poignant episode, yet one that carries significant weight.

Season 7, Episode 19: “Garage Sale”

In a more sentimental tone, an episode of The Office doesn’t always shine at its brightest, yet this particular one beautifully paves the way for Michael’s move to Colorado. It concludes with his heartfelt and fitting proposal to Holly, followed by the surprising news of his departure. This proposal ranks among the most romantic and tear-jerking moments in sitcom history, rivaling Ben Wyatt and Leslie Knope’s scenes, while the secondary storyline, where Jim tricks Dwight with mature plants instead of miracle legumes, provides a delightful contrast.

Season 7, Episode 22: “Goodbye, Michael”

Many people believe that “The Office” should have concluded when Steve Carell departed, as this parting could easily serve as a series finale. This heartfelt send-off offers a perfect homage to a complex yet endearing character, particularly in his final scene: a poignant last-minute airport farewell with Pam, their microphones switched off. If we must say goodbye to the show’s main and most significant character, at least we can take solace in the satisfying ending he finds with Holly, and the fitting manner in which he departs.

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2025-05-06 20:06

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