After its return from the strike, The Office had a few lackluster episodes that worried me. After four strong seasons, was it beginning to lose its magic?

Turns out: nope. SPOILERS FOLLOW!

The Season Five premiere, “Weight Loss,” picks up right where the Season Four finale left off. Toby’s replacement, Holly – played by the amazing Amy Ryan – is Michael’s latest love interest. Oddly enough, as Jim points out, he seems to be doing well with her – because she, too, is a dork.

Holly still believes that Kevin is mentally impaired, but that doesn’t stop her from being one of the most likeable employees in the branch. Pam is about to leave for art school in NYC, which worries Jim, especially since his botched proposal from the finale. Angela is still cheating on (now fiancé) Andy with Dwight, which, oddly, makes her the most promiscuous character on the show. (Keep wearing those pink cardigans and turning the pages on your Kittens ‘n Puppies calendar – you’re not fooling anyone!)

When news comes down from corporate of a company-wide weight loss competition, Scranton has their eye on the prize: five vacation days for everyone! Everyone has their own unique way of getting ahead, whether it be fasting or tapeworms. But will the fierce competition tear the team apart? More importantly, will Michael get his money’s worth from his sumo suit?

The addition of Amy Ryan to this season’s cast is welcome, and will hopefully be at least semi-permanent. She fits in perfectly, and she has an outside chance at being Michael’s soul-mate. If, of course, he doesn’t get back with Jan.

Who is, by the way, still pregnant.

It’s amazing how such a human drama can be so funny, yet The Office remains one of the best comedies on television after all this time. This season is getting off to a strong start; hopefully, everyone can keep up the good work and keep us entertained for many seasons to come.

(Oh, and JAM get engaged. You know you love it!)

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