The obvious moment for change

This week’s was the 13th episode of the U.S. version of The Office.

For those of you who are keeping score... that is the same place in the timeline as The Office Special, the final episode (or final two episodes depending on your viewpoint) of the British series.

What that means is that this was the obvious moment for a change in direction and plot. Naturally, the U.S. Office has been on it’s own little course since at most the second episode and at most this second season. But no difference has been as drastic as last night’s.

Suddenly Jim openly flirts with slash says “I really like you” to Pam. Then the fearless leader gets involved with she whom he calls “Hilary Rodham Clinton” (but not to her face.) And all is different.

It was honestly quite surprising and freeing in a way. I think they have finally left behind the knee-jerk reaction of The Office faithful (myself included) comparing it to the British show.

Now I just hope they can keep up the comic momentum. And more Dwight. I hope there’s more Dwight.