It proved very successful, and a
pilot episode was quickly made. A 'documentary' set in a paper merchants in Slough, it is about
the drudgery and boredom of office life, full of sharp observations and
incredibly realistic characters.The focus of the show is Ricky Gervais's awful boss, David Brent. Desperate to fit in and be popular, he goes around the office spouting philosophy and telling awful jokes. He is completely oblivious to his faults, and, despite his ideas of political correctness, is a bit of a bigot. He is, however, also rather pathetic, seeming to have no life outside the office at all.
The show is populated with subtle humour and long, awkward silences, which separate it completely from other sitcoms. There is no intrusive laughtrack and few outright gags. These subtle pauses and facial expressions make The Office the most realistic thing on TV. One of the funniest parts of the office is the sympathetic Tim's bemused attitude to the office and its strange characters, and his repulsion at nerdy co-worker Gareth. There's also the romance between him and receptionist Dawn.
It seems like series two is going to be the last, but Gervais and Merchant are already planning a special for some time in the future. See BBC News for more info.