Synopsis: The first of two new episodes this week finds some of Charles Miner’s changes being implemented at Dunder Mifflin Scranton. One of which is Kevin taking over for Pam at the reception desk, and Jim thinks Kevin “is doing exactly as well as anyone might have expected someone like him to perform in a position like that.” Of course, Jim isn’t doing so great himself, since — as Dwight puts it — the new boss doesn’t find him “adorable.”
Things aren’t going much better at Michael Scott Paper Company, Inc. — despite the fact that they’ve already got a leg up on Apple Computer because they’re based in a condo instead of a garage. Michael’s got egg on his face — and in his Crocs — because he left the only job he ever loved to start a company that he can’t get started. Pam tries to simplify things for him, by compiling a list of realistic goals for him, such as getting dressed, opening the mail and assembling a sales dream team. He accomplishes the final item by picking up Vikram (the telemarketing all-star from the Season 4 episode “Money”) and Ryan on the way to meet an investor … who also happens to be an investment club that includes Michael’s grandmother. The meeting goes poorly, though, and Michael loses his start-up money and Vikram in the span of mere minutes. Pam freaks out, which actually has a calming effect on Michael and suddenly things are moving in the right direction. Michael even manages to secure an office space — in the same building as Dunder Mifflin.
Back at the actual paper company, the employees, in their attempts to suck up to their new boss, are forced to do the impossible — pretend they like soccer. Jim goes one step further, by suggesting that he’s a capable player, which results in an impromptu game in the parking lot and a swallowed crown for Phyllis. Somehow Jim is blamed for Phyllis getting hit in the face by a ball that Charles kicked, and he’s back in the doghouse with his new boss. At least he can stop pretending to be into soccer, though.
Mike says
Best Moment: When Michael abandons his idea for “Achy Breaky Fart” in favor of “My Stumps,” a parody of the Black Eyed Peas’ “My Humps” about a guy with no legs. It was the first glimpse of the true leadership skills he would exhibit later in the episode.
Best Quotes: “Everyone deserves a second, second chance.” — Michael, defending his decision to hire Ryan. If that’s true, Ryan blew his on that ridiculous bleached-blond hairdo.
“Yeah, I used to play soccer in school. From second to fourth grade. I was on the orange team.” — Jim, running down his soccer-playing credentials
Employee of the Week: Jim. “I’ve always subscribed to the idea that if you really want to impress your boss, you go in there and you do mediocre work half-heartedly.” Amen, brother.
Ryan “Ry Guy”/”Rye Bread” says
Best Moment: Ryan stealing bowling shoes for him, Pam and Michael. He’s already paying for himself!
Best Quote: “Confidence. It’s the food of the wise man but the liquor of the fool.” — Vikram
Employee of the Week: Ryan, the only bowling alley “Shoe Bitch” raking in $60K annually.
johnnysweeptheleg says
Best Moment: Dwight exacting revenge on Jim by calling his soccer bluff. No one does mischievous glee like Rainn Wilson.
Best Quote: “We should call him Rye Bread.” — Michael Scott [Ed. note: Rye Bread just happens to be johnnysweeptheleg’s nickname for our Ryan.]
Employee of the Week: Ryan. Who didn’t want to go to Thailand after hearing his riveting account of the trip?