THE OFFICE Season Premiere: ‘Nepotism’

When I was little, my mom used to tell me that if I ever lost something, I should go back to where I started and retrace my steps in the hopes that I’d find what I was looking for along the way. Perhaps my mom had the same talk with the writers of THE OFFICE. If so, thanks Mom!

After what was a shaky sixth season, THE OFFICE returned last night with a fantastic half hour. I’m sure it’s kind of lazy to say that the episode felt like the good ol’ days of THE OFFICE, but in the most important ways, it did.

Of course, I was a sucker for Jim and ‘the Bart Simpson of Scranton’ and their attempts to pull off a classic Dwight prank. Both were inspired. Both failed. But Mr. & Mrs. Halpert tried, and that’s what matters at the end of the day.

Michael’s insatiable need for love, whether it be from his real family or his perceived family at Dunder Mifflin, led him to hire his half-nephew as a summer intern. The kid was horrible at his job, disrespectful to the employees and a jackass in every way possible. Come to think of it, he’s a lot like Ryan, and Ryan’s still leeching around the office.

When Michael started reprimanding Luke by spanking him, I lost it. Completely over the top, but absolutely Michael Scott. If you watch the episode again, look at the faces of the cast when Steve Carell comes back into the conference room. They’re all trying so hard to keep it together.

I’m not sure I’m down with the Gabe and Erin dating storyline, but that might have to do with my lack of interest in Gabe more than anything else. Although I’m sure it’s intentional, the guy is just so bland. However, their courtship should set up some great material for Ed Helms, so at least we can look forward to that.

One other thing: I have a confession to make. I didn’t get the cold open. Loved seeing the cast having so much fun, but what was the whole ‘lip dub’ thing all about? Was it another one of Michael’s beloved viral sensations? I’m all for seeing John Krasinski dancing around the office, but if someone a bit cooler could explain it to me, it would be much appreciated.

Other than that, though, I was really into the episode. THE OFFICE has slipped over the past few seasons, so I’m thrilled to be saying this, since I’m a bit of a super fan and even I’m willing to admit it.

Despite wishing the show would end with Steve Carell’s departure at the end of the season, I think THE OFFICE has a chance to redeem itself and get back to the position of the show to watch on Thursday night. Steve’s farewell season could breathe new life back into my favorite series. I can’t wait to see it happen!

A few favorite moments and quotes from last night, while I go and make myself a cup of coffee (the one Luke brought me was decaf…jerk.)

• New credits! After six seasons, the show decided to update the opening credits. I quite enjoyed the change, but I feel like I didn’t get to say a proper goodbye to the old ones. I guess that’s what the DVDs are for. Did you guys dig the new opening?

• Erin’s talking head about dating Gabe was my favorite of the episode. “Thank God he’s my boss, because I would not have said yes to a first date if I didn’t have to.“

• Jim: Hey, Dwight, I don’t know if you’ve heard, but we’re supposed to be drinking out of weird backpacks instead of cups like normal people. Oh, you did hear. Dwight: Jim, you have one job to do and you do it forgettably. Those of us who are busy require hands-free hydration.

• Michael: Mixing family and business is a beautiful thing…Do you think they should have had open auditions for the band Hanson?”

Show of hands – who really liked last night’s season premiere? Favorite moments? Was there anything that didn’t work? Spill it or I’ll spank you.