The Office finds Pam and Michael at odds in 'The Lover'

After the wedding episode, my number one wish was to see the Michael/Pam’s mother storyline come back on “The Office.” My wish was answered on the latest episode, ‘The Lover.’

With Jim in a higher position than Dwight, it’s no surprise to find Dwight finding ways to top Jim time and again. This week, Dwight places a bug inside Jim’s office both in the form of a mallard and a pen. It’s oddly reassuring to find Jim and Dwight at odds even though Jim’s prankster side has retired. It’s even funnier to find Dwight besting Jim and coming out the loser at the same time.

However, the episode is really about the battle between Pam and Michael once Michael accidentally reveals his relationship with Pam’s mother. In a way, Pam’s reaction is a twist in and of itself. I would never expect to say this, but between Michael and Pam, I side with Michael. While Pam’s reaction is understandable and expected, her abrasiveness does get a little numbing towards the end of the episode. Michael also makes an interestingly enlightening speech about finding happiness. His dual personality of stupid and understanding always makes the character interesting to watch.

This is one of the best storylines the show has come up with, so ‘The Lover’ ranks among the top for me this season. “The Office” is as reassuringly entertaining as it gets.

Rating: 9.2/10