Big News for “The Office”?
People have talked about it…but who knew the network was seriously considering lengthening “The Office” to an hour-long show?
Zucker and Reilly are considering stretching The Office to an hour and canceling the original Law & Order.
This is HUGE! Though I’m not sure how serious of consideration they are giving, let’s look at the facts. Though “The Office” doesn’t have the ratings critics and loyal fans believe it deserves, regular viewers can’t seem to get enough of it, eagerly consuming webisodes, deleted scenes, and other online content. They even form fan sites and forums-imagine that :-P! Additionally, the show has found success in the past when it was supersized (i.e., Casino Night and A Benihana Christmas, though those episodes were a season finale and a Christmas special, respectively). Only time will tell, of course, if outstanding hour-long episodes could be delivered consistently. I personally believe the writers have proven that they can fill an hour time-slot with quality content, especially because many of the deleted scenes online are just as entertaining as episode segments.
Still, it’s a risky move. I can’t recall any scripted shows in recent history that changed format like this. I would argue, however, that a longer show would not turn away a large portion of fans. I believe that devotees make time for “The Office” because it is such smartly-written, compelling TV. Hour-long episodes simply mean more to love, and hopefully would attract more viewers.
What do you all think?
Also, check out the above link for a behind-the-scenes look at the set and the character of Michael Scott by Paul Lieberstein (Toby). Check out the feature on CNN.com: How to Succeed in 2007 with “one of the brightest minds in business”. It’s pretty entertaining: sandwiched between the very real Ann Mulcahy (of Xerox) and Michael Dell is none other than Michael Scott and his advice (as imagined by Greg Daniels and Paul Lieberstein).
Words of wisdom…
“Nowadays I find chocolate and/or chocolate-based snacks to be great motivators. Everyone loves chocolate. If someone has a lot of work to do, put a piece of fudge in a glass container (so they can see it) and let them know that if they accomplish their tasks, they can eat the fudge. You’ll definitely get a reaction!”
May 1st, 2007 02:58
I really don’t think the show should stretch to an hour. The show needs to be an hour though, but I think that is what we love about the show is that it keeps us wanting more. I feel we would get to bored of the characters and would expect a lot more out of them. It would be nice to stretch it to an hour but it isn’t reality. If it aint broke don’t fix it.
May 1st, 2007 05:29
Wow, this would be amazing if it actually happened! I know a lot of fans who are often complaining that the show doesn’t feel long enough (myself included). I think that this show is one that could really benefit from more time in order to let to let the awkward jokes breathe, but I agree that there’s a risk in having to consistently deliver a funny hour-long show every week. But still, I have faith in the writers so I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
May 1st, 2007 06:44
I second that vote
May 1st, 2007 07:36
that would be HUGE! go for it
May 1st, 2007 07:58
I think we should start a petition! That way they can see what a huge fan following the show has. Who knows, could help:)
May 1st, 2007 08:13
As much as I love the show, I am wary of an hour-long “Office.” It would mess with the age-old show biz adage “Leave ‘em wanting more.” Of course, one of the reasons I LIKE “The Office” is that it messes with age-old show biz adages. Now I’m confused.
May 1st, 2007 08:59
An hour long “Office” could kill it. Leave it at 30 minutes.
May 1st, 2007 09:07
I? am honestly not that worried, to be completely honest. I think this will give them more of a chance to explore the secondary characters, which would be awesome in my opinion.
May 1st, 2007 11:49
OH PLEASE GOD YES
May 1st, 2007 12:38
Better not touch my Law and Order, Mr Zucker.
May 1st, 2007 14:20
I am waiting for my fudge….
May 1st, 2007 15:20
An hour for a comedy sitcom is unheard of. I think ratings will go down if they do decide to switch.