Series 1, Episode 1 - Downsize
David Brent is informed by Head Office that his Slough branch of Wernham Hogg paper merchants might be closed down. David's deep rooted need to be popular triumphs over realism and he immediately promises the staff there will be no redundancies.
Broadcast details
- Date
- Monday 9th July 2001
- Time
- 9:30pm
- Channel
- BBC Two
- Length
- 30 minutes
Cast & crew
Press
The Office (BBC2) is a very funny spoof documentary series, though more "Ouch!" than "Ha, ha!" It turns on a fine performance from Ricky Gervais as Dave, the egregious manager of an office in Slough that is under threat of closure ("Did I not want to hear that, Jenny!") Dave swings from cliché to catchphrase with the grace of an orangutan.
Nancy Banks-Smith, The Guardian, 10th July 2001
Finally, a quick but enthusiastic nod in the direction of The Office (BBC2) - it might be another spoof documentary series, but it's a spoof documentary series distinguished by superb performances and regular belly-laughs, and is not to be missed.
Charlie Brooker, The Guardian, 7th July 2001
Streaming rank this week: 293