Daily Iowan

Issue date: 11/29/07 Section: 80 Hours

Laugh tracks take away from the realism of a show. "The Office" is a perfect example of a show that doesn't need it. Outside noise would detract from the humor of Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch. "The Office" has cemented its reputation on its lifelike portrayals of interpersonal communication and relationships, even though many of its characters and situations are completely absurd. The show's writers have spoken about the importance of awkward pauses and subtle facial expressions in many of "The Office's" key moments. Viewers didn't need a group of 200 audience members going "Awww" when Jim kissed Pam to know it was a big moment. That romance was virtually based on longing glances over a desk, and it is a large part of the show's success - illustrating the strength of "The Office's" structure, writing staff, and actors.

As the definition of "sitcom" changes, network bosses and show-runners need to put faith in the audience and know that we're laughing, even if you can't hear us.

E-mail DI reporter Meryn Fluker at:

meryn-fluker@uiowa.edu

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