NBC

The Office without Michael Scott is a difficult sell, but I couldn’t help but be excited by Robert California (James Spader.) The man who talked himself into the CEO’s job after being hired as the Regional Manager.  Spader should be used as much as possible, because every seen with him is better than the ones without.  So how was the episode? The rest of the review is after the jump.

The intro gags have been consistently funny throughout The Office’s run, and the planking gag was no exception.  Planking is a little bit out of date and it definitely would have been funnier to see them all #scarlettjohanssoning (NSFW!) but it still worked.

Robert California is just an awesome name and James Spader fits well into the role of a boss who’s infinitely smarter than the rest of the people in The Office.  His philosophical conversation starter at lunch and his list of employees were clearly ways for California to play with the staff, and perhaps evaluate them.  I’m almost positive the writers made that list at random.  Having Kevin on the “Winners” list was comical as was having Creed’s name missing from it altogether.  But, my guess is that list means nothing.

Andy is the boss. I didn’t think that would happen, but he certainly showed he can be a stand-up leader when forced.  It’s still difficult to see Andy in a position of power.  I think California should be CEO and Regional Manager.  More James Spader is the way to go for sure.  Ed Helms does a great job with Andy, but I just can’t see him being the boss.  Maybe, things will change as the season progresses.

As always, Jim proves himself a worthy husband with that adorable list that he dropped in front of Pam on purpose.

Spoonfuls (Thoughts in Smaller Portions):

1. Pam and Angela’s Pregnancy Battle

I love that Angela is not only bragging about her pregnancy with the Senator, but that she’s not as fat as Pam.

2. Dog Video

I want to know if it was that good…but I can’t find it anywhere.