Ebert Did It Better: Gasbag Reviews

• Written by Robert Padnick
• Directed by Charles McDougall
• A brief synopsis – It’s a Schrute German Christmas!  Darryl wants Jim to remember him when he goes to Philadelphia.  Erin learns about Die Hard from Pete.  Andy decides to stay a while in the Caribbean.  Toby finds someone that is interested in him.
• The best line – Dwight: Excuse me.  I have to run to my car to take a dump.  Kevin: I wish my car had a bathroom.
• 2nd best line – Dwight: Are you impish or admirable?
• The best moment – Cancelling of the outdated sidekick by cell phone.
• The best story line – Dwight rules Christmas with authority!  And then he leaves…but not before he ruins it for the children!
• Key exit(s) –  Jim says he will never see Pam again, I doubt that.
• Notable guest appearance –  Belsnickel!   Look it up kids!  He’s real!  And creepy.
• Grade – A

This is easily the best episode of the year and the 2nd best Christmas episode in the run of the show.  There is almost no misses in the entire show, even Darryl’s somewhat forced dance move at the end.  Pete and Erin!  Where does this put Andy?  I hope The Hangover III is good.  Jim, Dwight and Pam click on every level here.  This is a group that needs to be together.  Seeing Oscar kiss Angela’s ass is not real appealing, but Dwight calling him a Democrat is awesome.  Meredith even has more than one great moment.  Finally we have found a use for Nellie.  Yay Toby!  Everyone who ever liked the show needs to see this episode.