Looks like we are getting yet another version of “The Office.” The IP started out as a British comedy in 2001 starring Ricky Gervais that ran for two seasons. After it wrapped, NBC created another version which premiered in 2005 and ran for nine seasons, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
So, Australia is making its own version of “The Office,” which is set to debut next month. Please note; this project is completely separate from the NBC spin-off involving Greg Daniels. That series is still in development.
Created by Julie De Fina and Jackie van Beek, it looks like one major change is coming to the format of the series. While it is still based in an office, the inept manager will be a woman this time around. The role of “World’s Best Boss” has been previously played by Gervais, Steve Carell, Idris Elba, John Krasinski, Will Ferrell, Ed Helms, Creed Bratton, James Spader, Rainn Wilson, and even Brian Baumgartner (for an hour). The only woman who has ever held the role on either version of the series was a stint by Catherine Tate (“Doctor Who“).
“The Office” Trailer
The trailer opens with your typical morning meeting where manager Hannah Howard (Felicity Ward) announces that they would be “back in the office, full-time.” Soon after we find out second in command, Lizzie (Edith Poor), brought her pet crow to work. Which, of course, almost immediately gets loose and wreaks havoc.
We are then hit with a barrage of wacky hijinks and people talking about how incompetent and unself aware management is. All told through a familiar mockumentary style format.
The cast also includes Steen Raskopoulos, Shari Sebbens, Jonny Brugh, Josh Thompson, and Raj Labade.
The Australian version of “The Office” will premiere on Prime Video on October 18. You can check out the first trailer below:
