Ever since the start of Season 4, The Office has seen a lot of criticism and many feared that the series had lost its spark. Fortunately Employee Transfer is the turnaround episode that brings the show back to its roots delivering the quality we've come to expect from such a stellar comedy.
"Let's Put a Smile on that Face..."
The show's opener kicks off with a short Halloween segment which could have been a bit longer. However, the few minutes they do show provides just enough laughs to leave the viewer craving for more. Without spoiling it, Heath Ledger's Joker costume is a popular choice around the office and Creed's [Creed Bratton] segment will spawn some confused laughter as usual.
A Sad Goodbye
At the conclusion of the previous episode, we learn that Dunder Mifflin CFO David Wallace [Andy Buckley] is aware of Michael [Steve Carrell] and Holly's [Amy Ryan] relationship. As a result, Holly is being transferred a good seven hours from Scranton and Michael decides to help her move in. The trip there is hilarious due to the interesting dynamic that Michael, Holly and Darrell [Craig Robinson] create as they travel all crammed in the front seat of a Dunder Mifflin warehouse vehicle. During the ride, Michael shares some emotional moments with Holly, while intermittent jokes serve to create some comic relief.
Dwight is Going to Cornell?
Perhaps the greatest part of the episode is when Dwight [Rainn Wilson] enters the office decked out in Cornell apparel. Andy [Ed Helms], a Cornell grad, is unable to contain himself and the tension between the two is priceless. Without going into too much detail, Dwight announces he is applying to Cornell which enrages Andy and is reminiscent of the comedic relationship they had back in Season 3.
Engagement Dinner
Without question, the first concern on every fan's mind is how the relationship between Jim [John Krasinski] and Pam [Jenna Fischer] is going. After a rather anticlimactic proposal a few episodes prior, Jim meets up with Pam and his two brothers for dinner to celebrate their engagement. Little does he know Pam has a prank planned for him. While nothing profound happens between the two of them in this episode, the spark between the two serves as an assurance to the viewers that their long distance relationship is no need for concern.
Questions for the Next Episode
- Is Michael's relationship with Holly over?
- Have we seen the last of Jan?
- What's going on with Dwight and Angela?
To watch <i>The Office: Employee Transfer</i> go to NBC.com
