As a gamer who’s spent countless hours immersed in both Middle Earth and Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, I must say that SNL’s “Office Hobbit” sketch is an absolute gem! It’s like Tolkien met Gervais in a delightful collision of fantasy and mockumentary. The setting, the improv moments, and the blend of those two universes – it was just a fantastic hodgepodge of things I love!
In various adaptations throughout the years, the enchanting realms penned by J.R.R. Tolkien have been brought to life on-screen, ranging from animated films to two blockbuster series and the current live-action “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” TV show. In December 13, 2014, when Martin Freeman hosted “Saturday Night Live” with musical guest Charli XCX, he was promoting his final portrayal of Bilbo Baggins in the Hobbit trilogy. However, it was Freeman’s earlier role as Tim Canterbury (the precursor to Jim Halpert) on the original British version of “The Office” that initially propelled him into the international spotlight — and the “Hobbit Office” sketch brilliantly merged these two universes together.
During a retrospective on Season 40, former cast member Taran Killam shared that his most enjoyable experience from that year was embodying Gollum as the office’s quirky character, similar to Dwight Schrute or Gareth Keenan from the British series. “It was delightful,” Killam explained, “as it combined scripted lines with a lot of improvisation, which was characteristic of The Office.” He further expressed that it was a treat to watch Freeman and McKinnon deliver an exceptionally accurate portrayal of Tim and Dawn Tinsley, the British prototypes for Pam Beesly, in a Tolkien-esque style.
SNL’s “Office Hobbit” sketch was filmed in the 30 Rock offices
In his words, “It was a delightful mix of elements I adore,” Killam expressed. Moreover, he mentioned that unlike many pre-recorded sketches shot elsewhere, “The Office Hobbit” was indeed filmed within the very offices at 30 Rockefeller Center.
Although the main character has pointy ears, the environment is identical to that of “The Office,” featuring bland cubicles, realistic handheld camera shots reminiscent of a documentary, and interviews conducted like talking heads. It also showcases coworkers in their usual work settings, such as Gollum consuming raw fish at his desk.
In his conversation with the camera, Freeman as Bilbo Baggins explains, “After embarking on an extraordinary adventure, I saved Middle Earth and earned heroic status. However, choosing virtue over wealth, I decided to lead a quiet life now. I work at a paper company, selling reams of paper over the phone. And yes, I drive a Jetta.” Accompanied by the British theme from The Office, the footage shows scenes of Middle Earth.
Bobby Moynihan masterfully portrays Gandalf as David Brent, the self-absorbed boss character created by Ricky Gervais that served as inspiration for Michael Scott. Similarly, Dwight Schrute-like, Gollum endures cruel practical jokes like “nasty tricks” at the hands of his colleague Bilbo, who mischievously hides Gollum’s prized ring within a gelatin mold.
In Bilbo’s words, “You can’t pick who you work with, but when there’s a bond, it carries weight.” Glancing significantly at McKinnon’s character, he continues, “That’s why.” However, she swiftly dashes towards the doors, brandishing a bow and arrow: “The wall has been broken through!” It’s fortunate for Team Dunder Mifflin that they never faced the challenge of colossal spiders.
Option: Tune into “The Office’s Hobbit” episode (Season 40, Episode 9) available above, or catch up on all episodes of Saturday Night Live whenever you want, right here on Peacock!
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2024-09-06 17:47