LAST EDITED ON 10-01-06 AT 01:06 AM (EST)

I had seen "The Office" on a handfull of occasions prior to breaking down and buying the Season Two DVD a few weeks ago. As much as I had enjoyed it in small doses, the show really shines in marathon viewing sessions. I took in every episode in less than 4 days, and this is with a full work schedule. Anyone who thinks the sitcom is a dead genre hasn't seen this show. Reasons why I love this show:

Steve Carell-Everything this guy touches turns to comedic gold. His spots on "The Daily Show" were among the shows best. "The 40-Year Old Virgin" was brilliant. But nothing tops his performance as the egotistical, clueless, and unhip Michael Scott. When Michael visits NYC for a business meeting and proclaims that SBarro's is his favorite local pizza eatery, I nearly doubled over in laughter.

Best Foursome since "Seinfeld"-Remember when "Seinfeld" was in it's prime and there was absolutely no letdown when the story switched from Jerry to George to Kramer to Elaine? The same can be said with Michael, Dwight, Pam and Jim. Each one brings something completely unique and funny to the table. There's no letup in laughs when the story veers from one character to another.

Secondary Characters-"The Office" takes a cue from "The Simpsons" and delivers on sidestories for the supporting cast. Angela's affair with Dwight, Ryan's not so great office "romance", and Toby's schooling Michael on the proper way to handle workplace complaints have all yielded huge laughs.

Jim and Pam-That Sam and Diane romance was kid's play next to Jim and Pam's trials. This is the only show that can double you over with laughter and then hit you over the head with a welcome stab of romantic drama. Jim's confession to Pam in season two's cliff hanger was sad and profound, just the way an unwanted confession should be. John Krasinski is a true find.

I actually look forward to this show more than I do "The Simpsons". And that's saying a lot.