I’m Not An Office Superfan, But That Didn’t Stop Me From Loving The Paper

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I feel the need to be honest about something: I don’t find myself particularly enamored with “The Office.” Now, I should clarify that I do appreciate the acclaimed NBC sitcom, and have enjoyed many episodes that others consider among its finest. I can even discuss it knowledgeably with you. But when it comes to some of your favorite obscure jokes from the show, don’t expect me to jump in on those.

However, despite my lukewarm feelings about “The Office,” I must confess that I genuinely enjoy another film called “The Paper.

In 2025, the highly anticipated spinoff of “The Office” has finally arrived on Peacock, and now that all episodes are available for streaming, I can’t help but share my thoughts with fellow enthusiasts. If you, like me, are eagerly awaiting this series but worried about connections to the original potentially hindering the new comedy set in a struggling Midwestern newspaper, then read on to discover whether it’s worth your time!

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I Liked The Office, But I Was Never A Diehard Fan

As a teenager, The Office debuted just days before my 17th birthday. Over time, I’ve casually watched numerous episodes here and there, but I wouldn’t categorize myself as an ardent fan of this show. While I do find it amusing, it’s not something I compulsively revisit. Is it among the funniest sitcoms ever made? Indeed, yes. But is it a series I regularly binge-watch? Not quite.

While I recognize that many people are enthusiastic about the sitcom centered around the Dunder Mifflin Scranton branch, personally, it hasn’t resonated with me as strongly as it has with some of my peers and acquaintances in their social circles.

However, I’m Kind Of Obsessed With The Paper

Despite varied opinions on “The Paper” among critics, I personally find myself captivated by its witty yet insightful portrayal of modern journalism through the perspective of a troubled newspaper. Given my background in print journalism – attending college for it, managing the student newspaper, and working at a daily after graduation – this show seems tailored to my interests, or at least those similar to mine.

I had the opportunity to watch all 10 episodes before they were released, and one aspect that particularly appealed to me (in addition to the cast delivering that characteristic “Office” gaze) was how co-creators Greg Daniels and Michael Koman managed to infuse humor into some quite heavy subjects. In a conversation with the co-showrunners, Daniels likened the new series to shows like M*A*S*H, in terms of its ability to tackle serious topics without losing its comedic edge. However, what truly stands out about The Paper is that it’s genuinely hilarious, and I can’t seem to get enough of it.

There Are Some Connections To The Original Series, But A Deep Knowledge Of The Office Isn’t Mandatory

In The Paper, there are several nods to the original series, such as Oscar Nunez reprising his character and an engaging opening scene that delves into the relationship between Dunder Mifflin and the Toledo Truth Teller. While a good understanding of The Office helps to appreciate these references, they aren’t necessary for enjoying the spinoff.

Indeed, while they share some common elements (as they both feature the same documentary team), The Paper distinguishes itself significantly. I’d even go so far as to say that its humor aligns more with a series like Parks and Recreation, rather than The Office.

It’s possible that your affection for “The Office” could be beneficial in this context, but rest assured, appreciating “The Paper” isn’t mandatory.

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2025-09-05 18:41