Well, I held out hope as long as I could, but the site will be going on hiatus until this dang Writer's Guild of America strike is going on.
The site will still be active and the entire archive will be visible, but no new posts will be made for some time.
Thanks for your continued support of OfficePranks.net and let's hope for a quick resolution so our favorite show can get back on the air.
Episode
Branch Wars (Season 4, Episode 6)
Pranker
Michael Scott, Dwight Schrute (and kind of Jim Halpert)
Target
Karen Filippelli
Description
Michael isn’t about to sit idly by and watch his favorite minority salesman be taken away from him by Karen. After deceivingly luring Jim with Dwight and him to Utica, they get to work; complete with warehouse uniforms and mustaches.
Dwight and Michael try to steal their industrial copier, but predictably drop it down the stairs (hurting Michael’s hip in the process). While this is happening, Jim tries his best to duck out of the way of Karen’s view, but to no avail. Michael’s final message to ask Jim not to tell Karen was all that it took.
Reaction
Needless to say, Karen is upset. Dwight isn’t about to take things sitting down and does what every logical person would do in that situation…he threatens to burn down the branch if Karen continues to poach salesmen. Michael actually becomes the voice of reason when he goes to the explanation of wanting to fight for his employees. Everything seems as it should until Michael threatens Karen with burning down the branch if Stanley is harmed. It all seemed to be going so well until Karen lays into Jim for bringing up Pam in conversation. And just when all seemed lost, Stanley decides to stay in Scranton. All is right with the world.
Originality
6 – This would only be about a two if not for the interesting ways Dwight and Michael think up in order to subdue the guards and take down Utica. Molotov cocktails? Gas covered rubber? Chalk in the eye? How does Dwight come up with this stuff.
Length Taken
10 – Wwwwwwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyy too far.
Special Awards
The Michael Scott-Memorial Whoops Award – This might be the first ever prank that leads to a scolding. Not to mention the award to follow afterword.
The Awwwwwwk-ward Award – Congratulations, Karen. This is the first time I’ve ever wanted to turn away from Jim doing anything. I was hoping he’d die just so it’d all end.
Episode
Launch Party (Season 4, Episode 3)
Pranker
Jim Halpert and Pam Beesly
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
Michael and Dwight obviously have their issues with the new technology sweeping in their little paper company that could (gift baskets work so much better). When Michael announces to the office about the launch, the five o’clock shadowed Dwight jumps at the chance to impress his departed love by announcing that he will sell more paper in a day than the new Dunder-Mifflin website. Andy is more than willing to help things out by announcing a new sale by Dwight with the resounding sound of a bear horn. Jim will not stand for this as he asks Pam to help with a prank. Though apprehensive at first, the sound of the horn convinces the lowly receptionist. Getting on instant messenger, Pam logs on as DunMiff/sys and sends the message, “Who am I?” while Dwight is on a call.
Reaction
After some slight investigation, Jim and Pam tell Dwight that the system is self-aware, is programmed to be his enemy and must destroy him in selling paper. Despite his suspicions of Jim’s involvement, Jim walks away from reception and the joke is sold. Not that Dwight is scared (the computer should be scared of him). Jim mentions that Dwight looks worried, and the system agrees. This raises Dwight’s paranoia to the point of binary cursing. Despite their best efforts to worry Dwight further, he is now more determined. Maybe a little shaken by Darryl, Dwight goes off the deep end and uses the leads he stole from Staples. Though Jim has to leave to go to “the party,” Jim makes sure she knows about the leads. This shakes Dwight momentarily, but he still gets the sale. After his victorious paper battle against the website, Angela still rejects him. Pam, realizing his sorrow, let’s Dwight know that he is the superior being over the system.
Originality
9 – Unless you count Pavlov’s Altoids, this is the first time Jim and Pam have used the internet to prank Dwight. You also have to account for the fact that Jim and Pam knew that Dwight had a WarGames mentality about the whole thing.
Length Taken
7 – Pam didn’t really take it as far as it could have gone, but she gets an extra point for stopping it when it got to the point when Dwight was about to cry.
Special Awards
Don’t Be Cruel Award - Pam is too sweet to hurt Dwight that much more after it had gone so far.
Knowing your Enemy Award - Who else but Dwight would fall for this?
It's been a busy week, but as soon as I can get to it, the first new prank of the new season that was featured in Launch Party will be up. It's entitled DunMiff/sys vs. Dwight. Stay tuned...
Congratulations to "Jim as Dwight" as the Ultimate Office Prank through Season 3.
The Ultimate Office Pranks Elimination Showdown is at the finals. Two pranks remain in "Fun with Andy's Phone" and "Jim as Dwight."
Fans have until Thursday at 9:00 pm Eastern with the premiere of Season 4 to vote for the Best Prank through the first three seasons. So get your votes in soon.
Note: I was re-watching the episodes recently and I can't believe I missed this one. My bad.
Episode
Women's Appreciation (Season 3, Episode 21)
Pranker
Pam Beesly
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
Hearing the news that Phyllis got flashed in the parking lot, Dwight springs into action and runs outside to check it out. Thank goodness he has the sharpened broom stick from the bat capture (thanks Creed!) to poke through the bushes...just in case a nude man is hiding. Dwight begins taking the job a little too seriously when he proposes to Michael that he show pictures of various phalli to show to Phyllis. In the midst of creating an emergency anti-flashing task force, he asks Pam to draw a sketch of the flasher so Dwight can get to work. When Dwight starts taking things a little too far, Pam takes measures into her own hands. She draws the picture of the man who did the flashing...but that person looks somewhat familiar.
Reaction
In Dwight's own words, "I plan on plastering this pervert's face everywhere. You can run, but you cannot hide." Dwight recruits Andy to help him put up the posters and all it takes for Andy is one look. I find it amazing that Andy knows immediately what is going on but still refuses to give up on the joke. Jim goes into the kitchen and sees the poster. Giving credit without seeming to gush, he says, "That is pretty cool." Later, Andy even tries to stretch the prank as far as it will go as he volunteers to hang it up around his neighborhood and surrounding schools. What could be assumed as a couple of days later, Jim calls with information on the flasher. With the information in hand, Dwight flies to the women's bathroom above the sink. He notices a small painted on mustache fits well with his face. The joke is up with a resounding, "PAM!"
Originality
8 - It's not so much that Pam decided to go with Dwight as a the flasher, but the fact that she apparently got nowhere with Phyllis, but decided to go with it anyway. Extra point for the Jim props. If the king likes how you do it, you're doing it well.
Length Taken
7 - I would go higher, but come on...how could Dwight miss this? Even Andy knew it right away.
Special Awards
Who Knew Accomplice Award - Andy might have been a giant pain and wildly annoying earlier, but he gets plenty of brownie points for this one.
Tragedy into Humor - Despite Phyllis' pain, Pam sure knows how to turn something bad into something great.
Pool C has its winners in the Ultimate Office Pranks Elimination Showdown. Dwight's stuff in the Vending Machine had the most votes in the preliminary round with 18 votes. Also, for the second straight week, we have a tie for second with Dwight as Jim and Dwight's Desk in the Bathroom. Since we had two second-place ties in Pool B and C, there will be no wild cards. That means that the eight semifinalist have been selected. They are (in no particular order):
Dwight as Jim
Pam Keeps Jim Quiet
Dwight Stuff in the Vending Machine
Fun With Andy's Phone
Jim as Dwight
Dwight gets Faxes from Future Dwight
Dwight's Desk in the BathroomOne more week to go in the first round of the Ultimate Office Pranks Elimination showdown. We have a clear-cut winner from Pool B while two others move on since there was a tie for second. Because of the tie, there will be only one wild card winner to move on to the semi-finals. This weeks winners were Pam Keeps Jim Quiet, Fun with Andy's Phone, and Jim as Dwight.
This week's winnersVoting for Round 1 Pool A in the Ultimate Office Prank Elimination Showdown is over. The victors for this week that will move on to the semi-finals are "Dwight gets faxes from Future Dwight" and "Jim sets Andy up with Pam".
The winners from Pool AThe time has come to vote for your All-Time favorite Office Prank. The first round will last three weeks with 14 pranks to choose from each week.
This week, it's Pool A to choose from so take your pick from the pranks on the right. The top two vote getters will move on to the semi-finals. Remember, even if your favorite prank doesn't make the top two, the top vote getters not in the top two for their week will move on as well.
Get your vote in and tell your friends. Voting ends Thursday, August 30th at 9:00 pm Eastern time. Check back to see what pranks moved on and to vote on the next batch.
OfficePranks.net has been about as slow as any site could be this summer, but with just over a month left in The Office offseason, it's time for some polls. We're going to be having a definitive elimination style all-time best pranks list.
These polls will run for five weeks in three different segments...
Each of the first three weeks polls will have approximately 14 pranks to vote from. The top two vote getters will go to the next round, while two additional pranks with the most votes who were not in the top two for their week will advance as well. Tie-breakers will be by me.
In week four, the six poll winners and two wild cards will be voted on again for one week.
The fifth week will have a final match-up of the top two vote getters from week four to see what is the best all-time prank. The poll will close on Thursday, September 25th at 9:00 Eastern when The Office returns for Season four. I will post my personal all-time list at the same time.
Voting starts this Thursday, so check back and vote.
Fan of The Office? Fan of Fantasy Football? Then join Office Pranks in the Office Football Olympics fantasy football league. Comment below to join...please include your name, email, and fantasy team name. For league settings click here.
Join up, there are only 19 spots. Office related prizes are eligible.
Episode
Product Recall (Season 3, Episode 20)
Pranker
Dwight Schrute
Target
Jim Halpert
Description
After Jim stole the opening as he dressed and acted like Dwight, Mr. Schrute couldn’t help but strike back. He comes in the office in a nice suit and his hair messily made without any glasses. After making small talk with Pam, he begins to look at the camera a lot and can’t help but mention how good Karen looks.
Reaction
“Look at that!” Jim is more stunned than anything else. Pam and Karen play along to begin with, probably just at the absurdity at it all. Dwight seems to do nothing but relax 99% of the muscles in his body, smirk, flatten his hair and look at the camera. He propositions Karen for sex, but gets shot down. Jim gives his approval while he looks at the camera and says, “I’m Jim Halpert, blah-da-blah-blah, comment, uh.”
3 – Jim did it just days before, so it can’t be too big.
Length Taken
8 – Jim spent a grand total of $11 on the Dwight outfit. I’m going to venture a guess and say Dwight spent at least $150 on his Jim uniform. He even had the knapsack. What was better, the wildly inappropriate remarks to Karen or the constant staring at the camera?
Find your own Prank Award – That’s just lazy Dwight…just plain lazy.
Episode
Product Recall (Season 3, Episode 20)
Jim Halpert
Dwight Schrute
Description
It’s been a while since Jim pulled a pre-meditated prank on the unsuspecting Dwight. All it takes to get Jim’s mind working is a $4 pair of glasses at a drug store. With an additional $7, he got himself a Dijon mustard-colored shirt, a salvation army tie, poop-brown suit and a calculator watch. A lazy part of the hair and voila, instant Dwight. He walks in quietly, sits down and starts proclaiming “Question. Which bear is best?”
Reaction
Dwight somehow fails to catch on immediately. He answers the question until Jim continues with his best Schrute impression. Dwight finally realizes what’s up and is flattered. That is, until Jim pulls out a bobblehead doll. He quickly mentions that identity theft is no joke. After all, thousands of families suffer every year. Jim does the best Dwight impression yet as he screams, “Michael!” Dwight is quick to follow suit. Looks like Toby will have another file to add to the corporate complaints from Dwight.
Originality
8 – How many kids will be going as Dwight for Halloween? I miss my youth. Jim gets an extra point for building an entire idea around seeing and buying a $4 pair of glasses. He is and will forever be, the king.
Length Taken
9 – He went to the trouble of getting a calculator watch! If he would have done something to Angela, that would have been one for the ages.
Special Award
Falling into Your Lap Award – All Jim needed was some glasses. It was God telling him, “Go Jim. Go forth and be the best Dwight you can be.” Jim didn’t go out of his way to get the glasses, it was presented and he ran with it. Double kudos to Halpert.
“Traveling Salesman,” “The Negotiation” and “Safety Training.” Those are the only three episodes from Season 3 that have not had a prank. With four episodes still remaining (with only one being a 30-minutes and the rest being supersized), this season already has more pranks than Season 2 or Season 1. In fact, this season’s pranks have almost doubled the original 21 pranks throughout the series to an impressive 41. Next week’s prank of Jim dressing like Dwight will give this season the same amount as the previous two seasons combined. And you know there will be more than just one in four episodes.
This season has also featured four episodes with multiple pranks: “Gay Witch Hunt,” (Calculator in Jello; Jim Sends the Office a Gaydar) “The Merger,” (Pam Times Dwight’s “Mile”; Jim Stares at Dwight’s Forehead), “A Benihana Christmas,” (Dwight’s CIA Letters; Dwight Explains how to Butcher a Goose) and “Ben Franklin” (Jim Hires Ben Franklin; “That is not the real Ben Franklin. I am 99% sure.”).
But which was the best? This was the question that I posed to the visitors of this blog almost three weeks ago and they have let their voices indeed be heard with 155 votes. It really was a two-horse race all the way from the beginning. Here are the top vote getters:
1. Dwight gets Faxes from Future Dwight - 23.87%
2. Fun with Andy's Phone - 21.29 %
3. Jim sends the Office a Gaydar - 9.03%
4. The Vampire Bite - 8.39%
T5. Pavlov's Altoids - 7.74%
T5. Dwight's CIA Letters - 7.74%
7. Pam, Ryan and Kevin Share their Grief - 3.87%
T8. Jim Sets Andy up with Pam - 3.23%
T8. Pam Times Dwight's Mile - 3.23%
10. That is not the real Ben Franklin. I am 99% sure. - 2.58%
The readers and I weren’t too far off. The top ten vote getters for readers matched all of my top ten. The order was switched around, but none the less. Without further adieu, here’s the list.
10. Jim Hires Ben Franklin
Of the 20 pranks from the season, five have specifically moved the plot line of the episode. Without these pranks, the episode wouldn’t have a story. This one is the one of the highest on that list. Without Jim’s initiative to not only save the company from sure-fire litigation, but to add some humor to the ladies of the office (who desperately need it) this episode would be much different. I personally would have liked it better and ranked it higher if Jim got Spongebob Squarepants instead.
9. Jim Sends the Office a Gaydar
A surprising reader favorite. This is the first completely original prank of the season for Jim and he got it started on the right foot. I like to think that immediately after receiving the package, Dwight goes around proclaiming that he has excellent gaydar. But then again, he never thought he would have a gay friend, much less himself. What is worse, Dwight as a homosexual, or him imagining Angela as one?
8. Pam, Ryan and Kevin Share their Grief
Without Jim around, the office had been a quiet, prank-less place. Thank God for Pam. All it took for her to come around was the death of Michael’s former boss. Extra kudos to Dwight for the resorbed twin comment…that was the catalyst that got Pam’s mind a-brewin’. Ryan even took the time to take the stick out of his butt to join in the fun. Kevin, taking a little longer to catch on, helps things along, but a poorly planned “Weekend at Bernies” reference tips Michael off. You can even see Ryan’s face as he realizes the fun is over.
7. Pam Times Dwight’s “Mile”
This is one prank that might have been overlooked more than any other. This one is a benchmark for the Dunder-Mifflin office. What is it that sets this one apart? Everyone’s favorite human resources manager, Toby Flenderson. Dwight would never have wanted to run a mile in the first place had Toby not come in and flirted with Pam. More props for Pam in being a good sport and actually going with Dwight.
6. The Vampire Bite
Transfer this situation to any real workplace in America and this one flops 99 times out of 100. But that one time it works, it’s pure gold. What is it that makes it work in this case, (besides a bat) an incredibly gullible and mystic-natured co-worker. Could have been higher if Karen would have put some presence in her acting. The previous Oscar-worthy work of Pam has spoiled me.
5. Jim sets Andy up with Pam
I was worried on the pranks front when Jim made the transition back to Scranton. This is his first one with some thought since his return. This also is one of the few pranks with multiple targets. Not only does he sink Andy with his horrible advice, Pam has to suffer through the attempt. This was probably bumped up a spot just because Jim was found out and continued on anyway.
4. Dwight’s CIA Letters
Besides the obvious brilliance associated with it, what sets this one apart from the others? The anticipation. When Pam first proposed the idea to Jim, he turned it down. Everyone could imagine what could happen if Jim had jumped on board. This one gave everyone a chance to think like Halpert. When he finally turned around and did it, he delivered like he rarely has before.
3. Pavlov’s Altoids
If this were a list based solely on originality, this one would be number one without a doubt. Never has the Pavlov’s Dog Theory been put to such use. Not to mention, this is the only instance during Phyllis’ Wedding that we get to see a glimpse of the office in any form.
2. Dwight gets Faxes from Future Dwight
The number one vote getter in fan opinion. It’s simple, to the point and gets the max effect for Jim but he is not around to see it.
And number one…
Why is it that this one takes the number one spot over all the others? This is one of the only pranks of the season that would have hurt the episode if it was left out. Andy is/was evil. He needed to be destroyed and Jim and Pam were the ones for the job. This prank also lends so much to the rest of the season. Andy/Drew is now nice to everyone, Karen is always jealous of Pam and Michael is no longer seduced by Andy’s friendship. This still might make number one based solely on the flawless and silent execution from Jim and Pam. Brilliant, just plain brilliant.Check back later tonight or tomorrow for the latest prank.
Today has marked the 5000th hit for Office Pranks.
Thanks for everyone who has visited. Couldn't have done it without you.
If you didn't already know from Sarah or Reem, our friends from The Office Chat, there is a new blog called The Two Cents.
It features commentary and interviews on various television subjects and does frequently focus on The Office. Every Friday, following a new episode, the blog does a discussion "Conference Room" of the previous episode. This features various people from different Office-based blogs and websites on the episode.
Last week, Sarah was one of the panelists and I believe Reem will be doing the commentary this week. I was also featured as one of the panelists and I will be again this week. So, head on over to The Two Cents on Friday and check it out.
For last week's conference room, click here.
Make sure to check back here to see updates on the latest pranks and be sure to get your vote in for the Best Prank of Season 3 poll. Voting ends next Thursday, so get your vote in.
UPDATE: For the conference room of "Safety Training," click here.
Here are the final results fot the Best Prank of Season 3 Poll.
1. Dwight gets Faxes from Future Dwight - 23.87%
2. Fun with Andy's Phone - 21.29 %
3. Jim sends the Office a Gaydar - 9.03%
4. The Vampire Bite - 8.39%
T5. Pavlov's Altoids - 7.74%
T5. Dwight's CIA Letters - 7.74%
7. Pam, Ryan and Kevin Share their Grief - 3.87%
T8. Jim Sets Andy up with Pam - 3.23%
T8. Pam Times Dwight's Mile - 3.23%
10. That is not the real Ben Franklin. I am 99% sure. - 2.58%
Other pranks - 9.06%
155 Total Votes
Thanks to everyone who voted.
My personal Top Ten should be up by Friday night at the latest.
Hey everyone.
I know it's been a while since there's been a new episode of "The Office," but that changes on Thursday with a special 40 minute episode. Hopefully there will be some pranks in that one to update you all with.
But, while you wait, please check out the Office Pranks Online Store. You can find shirts, hats, hoodies, clocks, mugs, even thongs and boxers...all emblazened with the Office Pranks logo. If I get enough sales (or any for that matter), I can expand the store and have all sorts of different and new things for you to buy.
So check it out. While your at it, head on over to the official Myspace page of Office Pranks and add me as a friend. The only thing I have to see for you to be my friend is a love for "The Office" in the television section.
Thanks for all the support and check back soon for all the latest pranks.
Episode
Cocktails (Season 3, Episode 17)
Pranker
Karen Filippelli
Target
Jim Halpert
Description
With an invitation to the house of the CFO, Jim brings along Karen as his date to his first company gathering since his promotion. In the midst of all the “fun,” Karen points out a guy at the party to Jim who she used to date. Later, after talking with a couple, she makes mention that she saw the man while they were separated. Karen adjusts the tie of another former boyfriend while Jim looks on. After being invited to shoot hoops with CFO David Wallace, Karen makes sure to tell Jim not to say anything about their relationship; for he might still have feelings for her.
Reaction
The first guy, Jim doesn’t make much of anything of, but the second guy, Jim is more quizzical than anything else. The third guy, Jim looks more astounded than mad, but as she remarks to him about her past with David, Jim is finally broken and asks if she has dated everyone at the party. Karen finally breaks and admits that she wasn’t serious. She says she didn’t date any of them and that Jim is actually her first. Jim is amazed, and Karen breaks again and admits that it’s just too easy.
Originality
8 – There has been plenty of speculation on what Karen’s intention was here. Some say she was testing Jim’s jealousy. Some say she wanted to see if Jim would get fed up and break up with her. Personally, I see this as a test to see if Jim cared enough about Karen to bring up her past right away or until it got to ridiculous proportions. If that was her intention, she succeeded in getting almost no reaction after each guy. Jim was unfazed…perhaps pining for another?
Length Taken
8 – I think Karen really did date the first guy, but she saw the lack of Jim’s reaction and wanted to see how far she could go. She pointed out four additional guys, just at the party, that she has dated before Jim speaks up. Extra point for the extra little mini-prank right at the end, just to rub salt on the wound.
Special Award
Double Dose Award – This is the second (and third) time Karen has pranked Jim since they have worked together. Karen gets the rare double prank in one swoop on the one man who pranks everyone else.
Taste of Your Own Medicine – The king of all pranks gets some of the business from Karen, twice in one night. It’s so easy, it’s not even fun.
Episode
Business School (Season 3, Episode 16)
Pranker
Jim Halpert
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
When a bat is found in the office, Jim takes advantage of Dwight’s reaction. Jim marks in plain sight of Dwight that his neck hurts, teeth are getting pointy, has a bad reaction to garlic bread, sees a blinding light off Angela’s crucifix, and remarks of the amount of sun in the office (to the point of covering his face with his jacket).
Reaction
Lacking, but effective. Dwight was a little too busy to deal with the bat to deal with Jim, but the point was made. His wish of luck let Jim know that the prank was taken with sincerity.
Originality
8 – Would be higher if not for the only way you can go as it concerns bats. Supernatural creatures always interest Dwight, so more quick thinking from Jim bodes well.
Length Taken
7 – After coming from the hip, the creative juices have to be flowing quickly. Jim impresses in his quick reactions and allies in battle.
From the Hip Award – Jim is one of the few people who know just how to deal with Dwight with no prior thinking of how the prank could go down. He sees a bat, sees Dwight’s reaction and makes sure that the main aspects of becoming a vampire are right in Dwight’s eyesight.
Sidekick Award – Involving Karen in with the plan. Karen was only there to lend support, but too much over-acting would have given it away to the always suspicious Dwight. Karen is no Pam in the drama department, but she’ll do.
Episode
Phyllis’ Wedding (Season 3, Episode 16)
Pranker
Jim Halpert
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
Based on the Pavlov’s Dog Theory, Jim offers Dwight a seemingly innocent altoid every time his computer reboots and makes the patented bell sound. Jim continues this for (seemingly, although we never truly know) weeks and waits for the perfect time to strike. Just prior to Phyllis’ big day, Jim executes.
Originality
10 – Pavlov’s Dog Theory can’t be put to any better use. Great use of technology and a current form of food to blend the two together. Jim should be published in some magazine.
Length Taken
10 – This could have been going on for weeks. Neigh, months. Imagine the patience that must be shown to not only give Dwight an altoid every time he reboots his computer, but to not crack under the pressure when the punch line is finally delivered.
Special Award
Patience is a Virtue Award – Weeks, maybe months. Jim is king.
Episode
Ben Franklin (Season 3, Episode 14)
Pranker
Jim Halpert
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
After Jim had his fun with the women of Dunder-Mifflin, he can’t help but get Dwight with a similar gag. Apparently, Jim has told Dwight that the Ben Franklin impersonator is the real Ben Franklin. Dwight goes to check it out.
Reaction
Dwight tempts the actor with chocolate, but he wonders how he got it (only native to the Amazon, it is yet to be imported to the US). Dwight quizzes the impersonator with questions about the King of Austria (Joseph II), the King of Prussia (Fredrich von Wilhelm III) and the King of England (the tyrant King George, of course), which he answers correctly. Despite the correct answers, Dwight is 99% sure that is not the real Ben Franklin. Dwight poses a final question of his nearsightedness/farsightedness. Franklin proudly proclaims that he’s both, that’s why he invented the bifocals. Still not able to tell, Dwight screams to the heavens.
Originality
7 – Jim sees Dwight like a little child. How would a child know that someone who looks like, talks like and knows everything about a person isn’t really them? Telling anyone else that the Franklin impersonator is real, if not immediately knowing he was already dead, could just look up the information. But Dwight is not about to look up what he can find out for himself.
Length Taken
3 – To the best of our knowledge, all Jim did was tell Dwight he was real. It’s possible he went to greater lengths and explained in detail, but we just don’t know.
Special Award
Just Too Easy Award – Jim makes a comment to Dwight that Ben Franklin was real…and they’re off. This might be the easiest prank that Jim has had to pull.
Episode
Ben Franklin (Season 3, Episode 14)
Pranker
Jim Halpert
Target
The Office Women
Description
With Phyllis’ wedding on the horizon, the appearance of Todd Packer gives Michael the idea of getting strippers. Knowing that he can’t give a stripper to just the men (sexual harassment after all), Packer suggests the separate-but-equal provision of getting strippers for both sexes. Michael asks Jim to hire the strippers, but refuses, leaving Dwight to do the duty. While Dwight finds a female, it’s up to Jim to get the male. Jim calls Michael to tell him the only males available are Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin or Spongebob Sqarepants. You see, Michael referred Jim to a male strip club called Banana Slings, but instead, Jim called the Scholastic Speakers of Pennsylvania. Next thing you know, Ben Franklin is getting into the elevator with Ryan and Michael.
Reaction
Michael introduces the ladies to Ben Franklin as the scholastic speaker comes in and begins to do his act. While wanting to speak on his life and the era of the founding fathers, Michael can’t help but make grunting noises and stripping music. Franklin begins to do a speech on discovering electricity, but Karen and Pam begin to ask him of his wife and Parisian girlfriends. Franklin continues to speak on, but he eventually falls into the ladies’ hands and ties a cherry stem using only his tongue. After Pam asks him the boxers/brief/pantaloons question, he remarks on her sauciness and winks. Continuing to flirt, Franklin notices the electricity between himself and Pam. She can’t help but point out that Ben Franklin had syphilis, but the actor says he, himself doesn’t.
Originality
8 – It isn’t so much that Jim hired someone who wasn’t an actual stripper, but to what he got instead of a stripper. What other alternatives could Jim have gone to that wouldn’t have been as creative as the Scholastic Speakers of Pennsylvania? I don’t think there is a more creative alternative. This would have been a sure fire ten if Jim would have gotten Spongebob instead of Ben Franklin.
Length Taken
7 – Jim never let Michael know that Ben Franklin wasn’t a stripper. The women obviously caught on when the speaker continued to talk about the founding fathers. On paper, if Jim would have proposed this to Pam and not gone through with it, it would have been higher, but since this was Jim’s plan from the beginning, it’s lower. Automatic ten if Ben Franklin took off any of his clothes.
Special Award
Bad Idea Gone Good Award – Michael’s idea to hire strippers was set for disaster from the get-go. But, put into the hands of Jim, he turns what could have been an absolute nightmare into some weird dream where you wake up and try to figure out what just happened. Part of me believes that Jim didn’t hire Ben Franklin for the purpose of pranking the women, but more for making sure the company wouldn’t be in trouble.
Episode
The Return (Season 3, Episode 13)
Pranker
Jim Halpert and Pam Beesly
Target
Andy Bernard
Description
Who knew that once one villain was killed, another more powerful villain who is more evil than the last would rise up in its place…eventually leading to the point where you want the old villain back. Andy is the perfect example. With Dwight gone, he has the advantage on the annoying-the-rest-of-the-office-for-no-reason market. He starts off by testing out his new ringtone, a four-part version of Rockin’ Robin (which took him for-ever), to Jim and lets it ring until Jim might strangle him. A quick pep talk leads to a singing of Benny and the Jets but instead singing Andy and the Tuna. His talents even lead to annoying Michael, who put up with Dwight for seven years. Realizing that the annoyance won’t stop until something is done, Jim goes over to recruit Karen for a prank, but is unable to deliver due to taking over Dwight’s sales load. After trying and failing to recruit Ryan (ask him 10 years ago), Jim goes to Pam who gladly accepts. After clumsily spilling his pens, Jim uses slight of hand to pick up Andy’s phone and takes it over to reception for the lovely Miss Beesly to hold on to. Without speaking, but synching up perfectly, Jim and Pam go over towards the breakroom and make the switch of the phone. As Pam blocks from the watercooler, Jim stands on the breakroom table, removes a tile and throws Andy’s phone above his desk. The only thing left to do is dial.
Reaction
Jim joyously beats along to the tune as Andy searches for his phone; which Pam is calling. The next time, Jim calls as Andy begins to get frustrated. Sensing something is up, Andy begins to get angrier and searches around his desk, even looking in Phyllis’ desk. Continuing to hear the ringtone, Andy searches under the couch pillows and under reception. As Michael is just about to leave with Andy following, Jim saves him by calling his phone for a final time. Andy begins to scream and seems to blow some sort of blood vessel. Looking for an outlet for his anger, he punches a hole in the wall. “That was an overreaction…”
9 – The high number isn’t so much for the prank itself, but for the flawless and silent choreography and planning from Jim and Pam. As Jim stands from his desk, he doesn’t even look over; he just walks and knows that Pam is close behind. After the phone is placed, Pam makes the call without prompting.
Length Taken
10 – Jim and Pam went far enough to make Andy punch a hole through a half-inch of dry wall. They might have broke his brain.
Special Award
Instant Classic Award – Everything comes together exactly like it should in this one and is a prank for the ages. The preceding events, the silent choreography, the delivery, the reaction and even the impending result; all were perfect.
Episode
Back from Vacation (Season 3, Episode 11)
Pranker
Jim Halpert, Phyllis Lapin and Karen Filippelli
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
With Michael on vacation, he leaves it to Dwight to record and transcribe meetings that he misses. Jim, always one for adaptation begins to scream into the recorder the fact that Dwight has taken off his pants, has a plastic knife to Stanley’s neck and is wearing a baby’s bonnet. Phyllis, in her rookie prank, joins in the fun and tells Dwight to get Michael an autograph from Jim Carrey (who just walked in the room). Karen goes right for the jugular and asks if Dwight has a Muppet Babies tattoo on his stomach. Jim reiterates the fact and states that it is indeed, Animal from the Muppet Babies. Andy tries to keep things going, but just brings a sense of awkwardness to the conference room as he says he is cutting off Phyllis’ head with a chainsaw.
Reaction
Dwight is panic stricken, thinking that Michael will believe whatever Jim says over himself. He refutes everything said right after it is said, save for Andy’s answer…which rightfully has no reaction.
Originality
6 – Extra points for the Muppet Babies reference, but the loss of a point for forcing me to picture Dwight without pants, wearing a baby’s bonnet and holding a plastic knife to Stanley’s neck. I shiver with fear of the thought.
Length Taken
7 – It has been a long tradition of messing with Dwight by Jim, but when Karen and Phyllis join the fun, it brings it to a different level. If Andy could have come up with something creative and funny, this would have been one for the ages.
Special Award
Rookie Award – To Phyllis and Andy. Phyllis is a simpleton. She isn’t very high maintenance and she keeps to herself. Most of Jim’s jokes go over her head or she doesn’t try to understand, but this one is right up her alley. Though not too original, she gets the job done. On the other hand, Andy misses the prank all together and goes over everyone’s head. Despite the rest of the conference room stopping the fun, Andy continues, thinking of the hilarity.
Episode
A Benihana Christmas (Season 3, Episode 10)
Pranker
Jim Halpert
Dwight Schrute
Description
Andy knows the perfect way to cheer up Michael after breaking up with his girlfriend, taking him to Benihana, or Asian Hooters. Taking his entourage (minus an excuse-stealing Ryan), they arrive and have only three seats together to sit four people. Michael and Andy sit on the end while Jim steals the third seat, causing Dwight to move two seats over, next to a dining couple. As Andy and Michael engage in conversations, Dwight is dying to be included. As Dwight talks with the camera about his duties to his boss, an unwelcome fortune cookie strikes him in the cheek. He looks over to find the culprit as Jim innocently sips his drink. As Cindy the waitress comes over and chats with Andy, he tells her to close her eyes and imagine her dream house. As Dwight pleads for Jim to tell him what is going on, Jim tells him she’s asleep. When she opens her eyes, Jim tells Dwight that she is awake and trying to describe how to correctly butcher a goose, but she’s having trouble coming up with it.
Reaction
“Cindy! Cindy, Cindy. Hold its neck back, insert the knife beneath the jaw, and bring it all the way around. There’s going to be a good amount of blood, but don’t let that bother you. Have a bucket there for the blood, the innards and the feathers.” Dwight falls right into the trap that Jim set for him. And with a swift stroke, Jim’s prankless days are over.
Originality
7 – Why a waitress at Benihana would want to know how to kill a goose is anybody’s guess. Sometimes I guess I give Dwight too much credit for assuming the logical solution to most situations. Jim knows this and gets Dwight to embarrass himself while also grossing out the others at the table
Length Taken
5 – It doesn’t take much on Jim’s side in order to convince Dwight of the situation. Since Dwight is not in on the conversation, his mind is left to wander into the most illogical situation possible…narcolepsy and goose butchering.
Special Award
The Master Returns Award – No one thought Jim’s days of pranking had come to an end. Even Dwight knew that. Jim’s hiatus from pranks lasted about a week. Welcome back, master.
Episode
A Benihana Christmas (Season 3, Episode 10)
Pranker
Pam Beesly and Jim Halpert
Target
Dwight Schrute
Description
With the quality of the teapot and its innards from last Christmas, Pam had to get something equally as great for Jim this year. Calling him over to reception, Pam tells Jim for the past few months, she has been sending Dwight letters from the CIA. As she hands him a file marked “classified,” Jim is astonished. She explains the CIA is considering him for a top secret mission, complete with an application and a list of every secret he’s ever told (after all, who knew Michael would go to magic camp). Pam’s gift to Jim is in his hands to decide what Dwight’s top secret mission will be. Of course, Jim wants to, but he says he shouldn’t because of the promotion and the new start he has. With the new-and-improved Jim off to Benihana with Michael, Andy and Dwight, Jim pulls a different prank on Mr. Schrute and realizes that it doesn’t matter that he has a promotion. Instead, he should have as much fun as possible and continue to terrorize his co-worker. Upon his return to the office, Jim tells Pam about intercepting a transmission and that the CIA needed Dwight at their Langley headquarters for training and an ice cream social with the other agents. Looking to get him a bus ticket for the trip, they realize it’s much too expensive and decide that it’s better to send a helicopter to pick him up.
Dwight waits on top of the building for the helicopter to arrive; backpack in toe. He paces and checks his watch until his phone vibrates out a message. Apparently, Dwight has been compromised, must abort the mission and destroy his phone. He looks around and throws his cell as far as it will go. He departs the roof and awaits further instructions.
Originality
10 – I love it when Pam becomes the mastermind of pranks. Her mind is vivid with originality, from government-created killer nanorobot infections, to Pretendinitis, to this. As the brains behind the operation, not only are Pam’s pranks more inventive, they seem to be nicer to the target.
Length Taken
9 (10 upon further review) – This nine will automatically be promoted to a ten if Dwight has any further prank pulled on him involving the CIA. Dwight not only admits personal information about his boss, but throws his phone as far as it will fly.
Following Through Award – This one goes to Jim and Pam for not letting Dwight stay up on top of the building all night long. It would be cruel to do such a thing as that, so instead, they send him a text message that causes him to become rabidly suspicious.
Episode
The Convict (Season 3, Episode 9)
Jim Halpert
Andy Bernard and Pam Beesly
Description
Since Jim’s return to Scranton, Pam and he have not been as chummy as they once were. Andy, unaware of the Jam situation, calls on Jim to help him out with his problem of being horny. After turning down questions about Kelly and Angela, Andy suggests Pam and Jim cracks a smile. Later, while coaching Andy about Pam, he suggests Frisbee-based competitions, hunting, Six Flags ads, and Pig Latin, all of which Pam hates. Andy goes up to Pam and frankly lays out all the cards. He does exactly what Jim tells him and Pam is astonished. She turns to see Jim looking very content with himself.
“Wow. That was…wow.” Pam is astonished at the level at which Jim has fired the first prank since being back in her direction. Continuing the onslaught, Jim gives Andy a few more pointers. These tips include playing the banjo and singing in a high falsetto voice. As Karen listens in, Jim skirts around the subject of Pam being a prank target. Andy takes Jim’s advice to heart and plays The Rainbow Connection in that sexy falsetto voice as Jim smiles along.
Originality
10 – Not so much for the fact of Jim sicking Andy on Pam, but for the tactics used. Like Jim says, he knows what Pam likes, but equally important, he knows what she hates. From Frisbee-based competitions to banjo playing, Jim has Pam pegged. Also note that Pam recognizes the skills and is in awe.
Length Taken
9 – Oh so close to a ten. The only thing that kept it to nine was the fact that Andy never left the office to pursue Pam. If Jim would have stopped after Andy’s initial attempt, then it would have been lower, but even after Pam realized what was going on, Jim told Andy to try again. Go Halpert!
Fighting Good with Evil Award – This is the first time Jim has pulled a prank on Pam and it is a doosey. Pam is nothing but sweet or playful to Jim and he sends the most annoying and despicable person in the office to win her affections. I think deep down, Halpert is pure evil.
