I don’t know how the creators can turn a simple thing like a screen saver icon hitting the corner perfectly into a hilarious two-minute bit, but I confess I’ve stared at the same screen saver wondering if it could ever hit the corner. (And it was during a staff meeting at my old job, too.)
Anyway, the first half of the hour-long episode focused mainly on Dwight’s mission to outsell the computer, and damn if he didn’t accomplish that feat, utilizing the rally call, “In your face, machines!” Jim and Pam’s prank of playing the role of a computer that just became self-aware was a thing of beauty. Reason #592 why I love Pam: her compassion. She could see that Dwight was struggling with his breakup, so she sent him the message, “You beat me. You are the superior being.” The expression on Dwight’s face as he read that was absolutely priceless.
For his role in that contest, this week’s MVC (Most Valuable Character) is Dwight. Congratulations, Mr. Schrute.
I was less enthused about the kidnapping storyline. I thought it was far too bizarre, even for Michael. When the kid refused to take his coupon, he had the perfect way out of buying the pizzas his employees didn’t want, but he didn’t take it. I was waiting for the cops to show up at the end, and I think the writers missed a good laugh there.
There were a couple relationship developments in this episode. It looks like Kelly and Darryl area headed for something, which is promising because Darryl is hilarious and needs more screen time. And the Angela/Dwight split seems like it’s final, especially after Andy’s terrific rendition (with the help of a couple of buddies) of ABBA’s “Take a Chance On Me.” Angela kills me with those little smiles as she walks off.
Finally, a few random, funny lines:
– Oscar, realizing that he was in the conference room to help with Michael’s new shirt, saying “This is why I’m here?” and walking out.
– Andy, after bringing something made of ice to the party, saying, “I stole it.”
– Kelly, slamming a piece of pizza on Ryan’s smug mug on the TV. (By the way, how cool was it to see him get yelled at for using some other dude’s office?)
– Michael, putting the sushi tray on a nearby car when he and Dwight decide to leave.
What was your favorite (or least favorite) moment?
