Review of Office Space (1992) by Giancarlo I — 20 Oct 2012

I would say that Office Space is a movie that many of us can relate to. First off, the characters feel like theyâ(TM)re stuck in a job they donâ(TM)t want (raise your hand if you agree with this). They are dreaming about doing something they really love to do in life and they want to do it as long as they live (who wouldnâ(TM)t right?). The main character, Peter, doesnâ(TM)t even know what he really wants to do. (I know I can relate to that). So even if it was released way back in â(TM)99, the themes in this film are still very much relevant today.

During the first few minutes of the film I thought it was a realistic take on the life of a common office employee shown in a comedic way. How wrong was I on this. As the movie progressed I just felt that the turn of events became ridiculous. I mean, which employer in his right mind would promote someone not going to work anymore? However, once you get past the ridiculousness of the plot, the movie is really a good one. The script is hilarious. The sets really reflected how mundane office work can be. And of course, despite the ridiculous turn of events, the issues tackled in this movie is not very far from real life.

The scene that sold me to this movie is when their office was engulfed in flames. Iâ(TM)m gonna tell you a secret. I always wanted to burn the building where I worked before and I would like to believe I am not the only one who have thought of this (if Iâ(TM)m wrong then I guess Iâ(TM)m a closeted arsonist). Anyway, that scene, for me, depicts the things employees would do when pushed to the breaking point.

There are, of course, times that the movie gets boring. You also canâ(TM)t help but raise your eyebrows as things turn to the unbelievable. But what is endearing about this movie is the performances of the cast. People really will be able to relate to Ron Livingstonâ(TM)s issues with his job. Everyone can identify a boss they had that is as infuriating as Gary Cole. Jennifer Aniston does what she does best playing an every gal that you know from somewhere. But for me, the best performance was Stephen Rootâ(TM)s Milton. His character is the one everyone makes fun of. You canâ(TM)t help but chuckle every time he is on screen. Later in the movie, you will also be surprised that you are already feeling pity for his character.

All together, I really liked the movie. For most of us who feel stressed from our jobs, this movie is somewhat of an escape. Others can also feel vindicated when they see the office burning. For me, I felt really good about myself after watching this movie. Like the same thing can happen to me too. That is until the movie finishes and I realize I would have to go back to the same sucky job tomorrow.