The Office: U.S. Versus British Version - Which One is Funnier?

Many fans of NBC's hit show The Office have heard the following at least once: "The British version is much better." But is it? I recently got the opportunity to watch the British version on DVD, and here is my official comparison of the two, broken down by character:

Michael Scott (Steve Carell) versus David Brent (Ricky Gervais)

As a fan who watched the American version first, it was hard for me to imagine a more amusing character than Michael Scott. Steve Carell was hilarious on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and, in fact, I originally tuned in to NBC's version of The Office because of him. However, Ricky Gervais is a master of subtlety in his portrayal of hapless boss David Brent, and he makes you realize how truly over the top Michael Scott is. When you compare the two it is clear that Gervais' character is a bit more "realistic" and Carell's Michael Scott is more of a caricature. Their foibles (racist and sexist tendencies and general cluelessness) are similar, however. If I had to choose a favorite, I would have to give the nod to Gervais, if only for his more distinguished career.

Dwight Shrute (Rainn Wilson) versus Gareth Keenan (Mackenzie Crook)

Again, the two characters serve similar functions within the show--the overly self-important, geeky corporate wannabe. Dwight is a bit more exaggerated as a character than the understated Gareth, making the British character someone you feel like you might actually work with in real life. However, in this case, I prefer Rainn Wilson's character. He seems to be a bit more involved in the plots and the show's dynamic, and provides a lot of the funny one-liners in the program.

Jim Halpert (John Krasinski) versus Tim Canterbury (Martin Freeman)

Of the major characters on the show, these two seem to be the most different. While Jim seems to be an average guy and, at least to a certain extent, has it all together, Tim is a little more of a pathetic character. The British version plays up Tim's dislike of his job and status in life, and shows some of his attempts to change his life situation (such as his desire to go back to college). Because of this I find Tim a more interesting and give the edge to the British version of his character.

Pam Beesley (Jenna Fischer) versus Dawn Tinsley (Lucy Davis)

Interestingly, the opposite scenario of Jim and Tim--Pam is a more pathetic and "sad" character than Dawn, who seems to be for the most part an average and almost stock character. Pam's interest in art and general demeanor on the show make it easier to care about her than Dawn, and makes her the better character.

Secondary characters, plot, and other factors to consider

Interestingly enough, the British version of the Office does not have equivalent characters to Angela, Stanley, Ryan, Oscar, Kevin, and others. This is a severe detriment to the British version of the show.

The general plot lines of the two shows are very similar. Individual episodes revolve around common office scenarios, such as diversity training. However, the trend with the British version being more realistic is consistent here. David Brent's subdued but hilarious antics and the general demeanor in these events is eerily similar to what you might experience in your own workplace, which gives the British version an edge in my opinion.

In terms of the Jim/Pam versus Tim/Dawn romance, the British version is a bit more subtle and handled better, in my view. The constant "will they or won't they" with Jim and Pam is very reminiscent of the "Friends" problem with Rachel and Ross--viewers were always rooting for them to get together, but when they finally did it was unsatisfying. Tim and Dawn exhibit some flirtation, and seem to care about each other, but the show does not revolve around their interaction quite so much. As a result there doesn't seem to be as much at stake with their relationship, or lack thereof.

There are other non-character, non-plot factors in comparing the two shows to be considered. First, the general humor on the British version of the Office is a bit more risqué, so if you aren't into jokes involving sex toys and explicit language, you may enjoy the American version better, which is more tame in this way. Second, despite the fact that they are speaking English, the accents of the British characters is quite thick, and I've heard some people complain that they can't even make out what's being said.

In the end, because of the sheer number of funny secondary characters and over-the-top humor, I enjoy the American version of the Office slightly more. However, I can understand why some would appreciate the British version. If you want even drier humor, and a bit more of a "realistic" show, I would suggest checking out the British version.