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Get ready to dive deep into the world of cubicles and staplers because the iconic cast of ‘Office Space’ reunited at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Led by the one and only Mike Judge, this panel wasn’t just about reminiscing; it was a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes secrets and surprising revelations that’ll make you want to hit rewind on your DVD player ASAP.
1. Judge’s Movie Marathon Mishap
Believe it or not, Mike Judge, the mastermind behind the film, hasn’t actually watched ‘Office Space’ since it first hit theaters 25 years ago. Yep, you read that right. Despite its cult status, Judge admitted he’s always found something else to do whenever he’s tried to sit down and watch it. Stressful memories, perhaps? But hey, he’s got a soft spot for those printer-smashing scenes.
Not sure why exactly, but every time I’ve started watching it, I just kind of think, ‘Nah I’m gonna go do something else, It brings back stressful memories, I suppose. There are scenes I like watching, though — like the printer smashing, or all the scenes with Gary Cole. I just feel like I’ve seen it enough.
Mike Judge
2. What Judge Would Change
Even perfectionists like Judge have their moments of doubt. There’s this one shot near the end where Ron Livingston’s character, Peter, breaks into a smile during a burning building scene. Turns out, Judge wishes he’d stuck to his guns and gone with a subtler take. Lesson learned: never underestimate the power of a director’s vision.
There’s a shot near the end of Ron when the building’s burning down and there were like three takes, There was one that’s a little subtle, and then there’s one where he breaks into a big smile. The studio wanted the other take. I thought, you know, [let the studio win that fight]. I actually looked up on YouTube thinking about that scene and I shouldn’t have [given in].
Mike Judge
3. The ‘Office’ That Almost Wasn’t
Ever wonder why ‘Office Space’ and ‘The Office’ don’t share the same universe? Well, it turns out Judge actually turned down the chance to helm the US version of the hit UK series. Why? Because he didn’t want to revisit the world of office humor. But hey, no regrets here – Greg Daniels did an awesome job with it, right?
So they sent me a package with DVDs of Ricky’s British Office and some [press clippings], and the first review I read said, ‘The Office succeeds where movies like Office Space failed,’ and I just [pretends to throw down the imaginary review]. I just didn’t want to go back [to that genre]. I had a pretty rough experience on Office Space, and I didn’t want to go through all that again. Then it went to [Judge’s King of the Hill co-creator Greg Daniels] and I loved what he did with it, it’s an awesome show. So I don’t regret it.
Mike Judge
4. Living the Dream (or Not)
Forget career aspirations; according to Livingston, ‘Office Space’ is really about a guy trying to claw his way out of a funk. And that iconic line about missing work? Totally improvised. Talk about hitting the nail on the head.
It’s a story about a guy trying to climb out of depression. When one of the “Bobs” notes he’s been missing a lot of work and I replied I wouldn’t say I’ve been missing it, Bob.
Ron Livingston
5. Cake and Cameos
After the panel, the cast indulged in some serious comfort food – cheeseburgers, salmon, you name it. And of course, there was cake, a nod to the infamous scene featuring Lumbergh’s despised birthday celebration. Talk about eating your feelings!
6. Secrets from the Set
Behind the scenes, things weren’t always smooth sailing. Livingston was asked to shed some pounds for the lead role, while Stephen Root, who played Milton, practically had to navigate blind with those thick glasses. And did you know Judge auditioned for a part himself? Talk about taking matters into your own hands!
7. Winning the Music Battle
Remember that rap music in the film? Turns out, the studio wasn’t too keen on it. But Judge stood his ground and, well, the rest is history. Who knew nerdy white boys and angry beats could be such a winning combo?
8. From Flop to Phenom
‘Office Space’ didn’t exactly set the box office on fire when it first premiered. But fast forward a few years, and suddenly everyone’s jumping on the bandwagon. Even Madonna herself declared her love for Michael Bolton – now, that’s star power!
9. Where Are They Now?
Ever wonder what happened to the gang after they bid adieu to Initech? According to the cast, Peter might be off finding himself in an ashram, while poor Milton is… well, let’s just say he’s seen better days.
10. Lights, Camera, Action!
The journey from script to screen wasn’t without its hurdles. Judge battled with studio execs over creative choices, but in the end, his vision prevailed. And as for the legacy of ‘Office Space’? Let’s just say it’s more than just a movie – it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
