For such a simple premise it’s amazing how The Office has impacted popular culture. Not just in English-speaking territories but across the world. With the Australian version recently premiering, now is a good time to investigate why the series has had such longevity. As well as global appeal.
Experimental and Mundane
Despite only running for 14 episodes the original version of The Office is arguably one of the most influential TV shows of the 21st century, which can largely be boiled down to three things.
First, it helped to cement and popularise the single-camera, no-laugh-track sitcom format. A rarity in the British TV landscape at the time. This was helped by its use of a mockumentary style. This made the production feel more real. Allowing us to relate more to the characters and thereby making the funny and poignant moments hit harder.
Secondly, it focused on scenarios and characters that were incredibly relatable for viewers. From workplace romance to the cringe-worthy boss trying to be a friend to his employees without realising the power dynamics in the relationship, to the threat of downsizing and the awkward interactions and personalities you encounter in office work, many viewers were able to identify with what the Office brought to TV.
And lastly, it acted as a platform/launching pad for some great UK comedic and acting talent. The show would catapult most of its central cast, with relatively small CVs at the time, including Ricky Gervais, Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook into lengthy media careers. Plus it included bit appearances from future big-hitting UK talent alongside established names. Including Stephen Merchant, Ralph Ineson, Olivia Colman and Martha Howe-Douglas. Among others.
International Appeal
Since the Office ended in 2003 it has been remade in many different countries. These include Germany, Brazil, the USA, France, Canada, Chile, Israel, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Finland, India, Poland, Saudi Arabia and now Australia. These projects have had mixed responses. The US version is considered to be just as good, if not better than, the original series. The German and Brazilian adaptations also have high audience ratings on IMDb. Some adaptations may not be rated highly like Poland, Israel and Finland but they were at least popular enough to have several series made of them. Meanwhile, some remakes that only ran for a single series are rated very highly (Chile) while others are viewed very unfavourably (Canada).
Does It Always Work?
With so many different adaptations, all of which adhered to the mockumentary style, writing that focuses on realistic or/and relatable situations and most of them helping to give platforms to up-and-coming as well as smaller already active talent, what else is crucial for other adaptations of The Office to succeed?
This is a much more difficult question to answer. Many would say that it has to bring something new to the table rather than just parroting the original. And with examples like the more slapstick and over-the-top antics of the US version and the darker streak of Germany’s version that would appear to be the magic ingredient.
However one can argue that adapting to a different cultural context alone provides a reason for a remake to exist because office culture differs across geographical boundaries. For example, the commentary on racism in the Israeli and Chilean versions are pointed observations on racism in both countries. Yet one is looked on more favourably than the other. Additionally, the focus of the Australian version on the boss being a woman places a lens on workplace gender politics. A unique thing for a normally male-dominated franchise. The series has not been received well though (discounting review bombing from hate watchers).
A Missing Ingredient
Ultimately for a new Office project to work it doesn’t just have to do something new with the old formula while also recapturing the surface elements that made the original show work. It must also create characters that draw us in through compelling personalities that audiences attach to. The scenarios, presentation and stars are part of The Office’s appeal and a unique take on the material is a great thing to have. Although without an emotional anchor, The Office is just as dull as actual office work.
Also Read: Ten Great Mockumentaries To Watch
