From "The Office" to "The Divide": figuring out where all the good work sitcoms have gone

Contents:

• "The Great Layoff": Why We've Fallen Out of Love with Work
• Where Have Office Sitcoms Gone and What's Replaced Them
• Who's to Blame for Making Us Pretend to Love Our Work
• Why Anti-Work Attitudes in Movies Are Not an Abnormality, but the Norm
• How TV Series and Movies Create Myths About Work and Doom Us to Disappointment

"The Great Layoff": Why We've Fallen Out of Love with Work

Pop culture has traditionally been critical of the corporate world. Films such as the cult classic "Fight Club," the dark comedy "Sorry to Bother You," and the Oscar-winning "Parasite" raise questions about the meaninglessness of modern work, demonstrating its degrading impact on human dignity. Since its earliest days, cinema has explored the theme: "the world is run by elites, and ordinary employees become mere cogs in the capitalist system, whose only purpose is to make money for management." These works make viewers think about the factors that shape modern society and how corporate culture can influence personal life and moral values.

Despite the general Darkness, sometimes there are bright moments. In Russia, a good example is the series "Not Born Beautiful," in which the team becomes a second family for the main character. In the West, the film "The Intern" stands out, telling the story of a 70-year-old retiree who gets a job at an online store. Many series emphasize that work is not only a source of income but also the meaning of life, and sometimes the basis of the characters' identity. Striking examples are sitcoms such as "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," "Kitchen," "Scrubs," and "Interns," which almost always take place in the workplace and focus on interactions with colleagues. These stories illustrate how work can shape relationships and influence the characters' personal growth.

In 2020, the world faced the coronavirus pandemic, which dramatically changed the lives of millions of people. People found themselves confined to their homes, deprived of the opportunity to communicate with loved ones and friends, but simultaneously continuing to perform their work duties, albeit remotely. Medical workers, couriers, and other professionals unable to work from home have been particularly hard hit. They risked their health every day, performing their duties in high-risk conditions.

According to research, approximately 60% of people live paycheck to paycheck. This results in a lack of financial security, making it difficult to decide whether to quit or find a new job, even when it is critical for their health and well-being. Without sufficient savings, many continue to live in unfavorable circumstances, which worsens their quality of life and psycho-emotional well-being. Building an emergency fund and budgeting can be important steps towards financial independence and improving overall well-being.

Lack of livelihood has had a significant impact on how people have coped with the COVID-19 epidemic. In some families, the disease has claimed the lives of entire generations—grandparents, mothers, and fathers. The fates of thousands of people could have turned out differently if they had had more stable financial resources. Money provides access to private healthcare and quality medications, which in turn increases the chances of recovery. Therefore, many social media users reacted strongly to photos of celebrities enjoying themselves at private parties, sporting glamorous masks. Famous people had access to first-class medical care, while ordinary people did not have such opportunities.

The crisis had a particularly strong impact on America. The US lacks a healthcare system that ensures every citizen has access to free medical care. As a result, many people felt abandoned to a still poorly understood disease. They realized that they were working themselves to the bone, losing loved ones, and putting their health at risk simply because they were not part of the elite. This crisis highlighted the need for healthcare and social welfare reforms to ensure protection and assistance for every citizen, regardless of social status.

The crisis became a catalyst for a rethinking of life values. Many workers realized that their employers did not value them as individuals and could fire them even during a state of emergency. At the same time, others realized they didn't want to spend their lives doing routine work, sitting at a computer and staring at a screen. This realization prompted people to seek more meaningful and fulfilling pursuits, which could lead to changes in their careers and personal lives.

The pandemic triggered the "Great Layoff," with record numbers of people leaving their jobs. In March 2022, 4.5 million layoffs occurred in the US, significantly more than the 2.9 million who quit in March 2020. A similar situation was observed in Russia: in the second quarter of 2021, 2.06 million people voluntarily left their jobs. These data highlight the scale of changes in the labor market caused by the pandemic and the need for workers and businesses to adapt to new conditions.

In 2025, several years after the end of the pandemic, a wave of layoffs continues to sweep the world. In Russia, layoffs are expected to increase due to a conflict of interests between employers and employees. Companies are pushing for a return to office work, while workers are struggling to find remote or hybrid work options. This situation is leading to burnout: employees feel unvalued and prefer to leave unfavorable working conditions. Life has changed dramatically since the coronavirus pandemic. During and after the pandemic, projects with a pronounced anti-worker stance have gained popularity, such as the film "Nomadland" and the series "Separation" and "The Squid Game." Had these works been released before the COVID-19 outbreak, they might have been perceived as dystopian fantasies far removed from reality. However, in the post-pandemic reality, they have become sad but believable satires. A similar situation is observed with the series "The Boys" (2019), which sarcastically criticized the political situation in the United States and, as it turns out, predicted the country's transition to authoritarianism. Humor and satire in "The Boys" are now taken much more seriously than before.

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The new season of the series "The Boys" has caused a wide public outcry and outrage among viewers. The main reason for the discontent was the bold plot twists and provocative themes touched upon in the series. Many viewers noted that the writers weren't afraid to raise pressing social and political issues, which made the plot even more relevant and tense.

This season's focus on superhero rivalries and moral dilemmas has sparked controversy among fans. Critics have also noted how the show reflects on contemporary realities, including its critique of authority and social norms. This has generated both positive and negative responses, highlighting the importance of the topics discussed.

Thus, the new season of The Boys not only entertains but also challenges viewers to consider complex issues, making it even more appealing to a wider audience. However, its bold choices have created polarization among fans, reflecting on the show's relevance in today's cultural context.

Where Have Office Sitcoms Gone and What's Replaced Them?

Comedy series about coworkers, in which characters become friends, fall in love, and go through hardships together, have become a rarity. This is due to changes in our lifestyles: quarantines and the transition to remote work have significantly reduced the sense of community. When communication with colleagues is limited to video calls once a week, it's difficult to feel part of a team. Consequently, viewers have found it harder to identify with stories about team unity. This trend demonstrates that modern realities require new formats that reflect our reality and help restore a sense of community. The idea that a team can become a "second family" is beginning to evoke irritation rather than affection. Many articles written by HR professionals about how to successfully ace interviews emphasize that the mention of a "family atmosphere" is a red flag. The concept of a team as a "second family" is perceived as false: it seems that large corporations are channeling resources into filmmakers romanticizing the work process, presenting it as a pleasant and fun pastime. It's important to understand that if employees buy into this idea, they will be easier to exploit. The reality of work is often far removed from the vision of a close-knit family, and working in a company requires a critical approach to such promises.

Demand for office sitcoms has declined significantly. This decline began even before the pandemic: feel-good series like "Parks and Recreation" were replaced by darker and more critical projects, such as "Succession" (2018) and "Silicon Valley" (2014). The coronavirus crisis has accelerated this process, pushing viewers toward topical satire and sensitive social issues. Currently, popular stories focus on the incompetence and tyranny of the corporate elite, who make millions off the labor of their employees. This trend reflects the changing interests of an audience seeking critical understanding of modernity.

The halo effect around billionaires like Elon Musk creates the impression that successful leaders And rich people are superhumans with special abilities. The stereotype that this is precisely why they achieved success isn't always true. For example, Elon Musk increasingly exhibits questionable behavior: he can act arbitrarily, make provocative statements, and ignore important personal circumstances.

For many viewers, stories like Succession provide a truly cathartic experience. They show that ordinary people are no worse, and sometimes even better, than their bosses. This realization leads to the conclusion that everyone deserves respect, status, and the good things in life, regardless of their position in society. Such narratives inspire and motivate, demonstrating that success is within everyone's reach.

Art reflects life, and nowadays, dark films and series that address the problems of capitalist society resonate more with viewers than the benevolent ensembles of classic sitcoms. Don't expect any Parks and Recreation versions anytime soon, at least until the job market changes.

Who's to Blame for Making Us Pretend to Love Our Jobs?

When corporations strive to create an image of being modern and appealing to young people, they implement initiatives such as pajama Fridays, bean bag meditations, and game rooms with ping-pong and PlayStation 5. Employees are periodically gathered in conference rooms where a video about the company's mission is shown. Smiling actors on screen talk about their dedication to work and gratitude to the company for the opportunity to realize their potential. This creates the illusion of caring for employees, but in reality, it often fails to reflect a genuine attitude toward their needs and motivations. It is important that companies go beyond superficial measures and truly strive to create a comfortable and inspiring atmosphere for their employees.

The tech giants Google, Apple, Amazon, and Facebook set the tone. In the 2000s and 2010s, these companies defined corporate culture trends. During the booming IT industry, they began to embrace the concept of the office as not just a place to work, but also a space for a fulfilling life. These changes had a significant impact on approaches to workplace organization, incorporating elements of comfort, creativity, and collaboration.

The corporate utopia became not just an ideal, but also a standard to which many companies aspire. Tech firms attempted to emulate Google's model, but this often resulted in a cargo cult: they created the appearance of caring for employees without demonstrating genuine support. At the same time, employees felt pressured to demonstrate gratitude and joy, which led to dissatisfaction. Unsurprisingly, such a corporate culture was perceived by many as a form of psychological pressure rather than a source of real benefit. Especially if work wasn't an end in itself, but merely a means to a more comfortable standard of living. It's important that companies not only feign concern but also genuinely create conditions for a positive work environment and personal growth for their employees.

It's impossible to create genuine joy, like Mr. Milchick's from "Divide," if it's just for show. The mantra "The team is a second family" is only effective when an organization truly cares about its employees. When a company "forgets" its values ​​during difficult times and begins to exploit employees, they quickly recognize the falsity. It is important that corporate culture is not just a slogan, but the basis for genuine relationships between employer and employees.

Pretense in the workplace is especially noticeable among employees engaged in routine office tasks. Activities such as sorting paperwork, answering disgruntled clients, or cold calling are unfulfilling. No amount of comfortable chairs or casual days can change the situation: workers don't feel the meaning of their work. It's difficult to feel enthusiastic when the work is constantly demanding and unfulfilling.

On the Reddit platform, many users express a desire to change their profession and become teachers, librarians, or writers, choosing fields that truly interest them. However, work in these fields often does not provide enough income to ensure a stable and comfortable existence. This raises an important question about financial stability and the value of creativity in the modern world.

Ping pong and beanbags may be pleasant additions to the work environment, but when choosing between them and a raise, most employees prefer financial rewards. Feigning loyalty to an employer does not inspire enthusiasm in most workers, and this underscores the importance of material motivation in modern business.

Why Anti-Labor Attitudes in Film Are Not an Aberration, but the Norm

The return to anti-labor sentiments in the media can be seen as a return to the norm. Art has long explored how the capitalist thirst for profit hinders creative expression, individual freedom, and the search for one's place in the world. This research is more relevant than ever, as society continues to face challenges related to the influence of the capitalist system on individual creativity and cultural development. It is important to realize that creativity requires freedom, not mechanical subordination to economic interests.

The first anti-labor statement in cinema can be considered the tragicomedy "Modern Times", released in 1936. In this film, Charlie Chaplin plays the leading role, portraying a character who is confronted with the absurdity of industrial labor. His hero works on a conveyor belt so slowly that he ends up trapped in the gears. The film raises important social issues about working conditions and exploitation, reflecting the struggle of the working man in the face of mechanization and the desire for freedom.

In the forties, crime themes became popular in film noir, where crime was portrayed as an attractive alternative to honest money for those seeking to get rich quick. Female images in these films underwent significant changes: women ceased to be exclusively housewives and princesses, turning into fortune hunters. A prime example of this trope is the femme fatale. In the film Double Indemnity, the protagonist uses her charm to seduce an insurance agent. Together, they devise a plan to make her elderly husband's murder look like an accident in order to profit from the insurance policy. This plot highlights the dark atmosphere and moral ambiguity characteristic of the film noir genre.

The femme fatale trope symbolizes a common cultural fear associated with what women might do to compensate for their dissatisfaction at home and at work. This archetype highlights society's anxieties about female strength and independence, as well as the potential consequences when women begin to act actively in their own interests. It is important to understand that this trope is often used in literature and film to create tension and drama, reflecting not only fears but also complex relationships between the sexes.

Professor Zen Dockterman is a distinguished scholar in the fields of medicine and psychology who has made significant contributions to the development of his disciplines. His research focuses on the impact of psychology on human health and methods for improving quality of life. Dr. Dockterman is actively involved in teaching and consulting, sharing his knowledge and experience with colleagues and students. His work is published in leading scientific journals, underscoring his authority in the scientific community. Professor Zen Dockterman continues to actively participate in conferences and seminars, where he discusses current issues in medicine and psychology and proposes innovative approaches to the treatment and prevention of diseases.

In the 1950s, anti-worker sentiments became an integral part of youth culture. At this time, the hippie movement was actively developing, and films increasingly portrayed gangsters and hooligans who refused to conform to traditional societal norms. A striking example of this is the film "The Wild One," starring Marlon Brando, in which he plays the leader of a biker club. The film's unemployed motorcyclists provoke conflicts, start fights and riots, which lead to tragic consequences, including the death of an innocent person. These images reflect a protest against established values ​​and the desire of youth for freedom and independence.

In the nineties, the image of an unemployed slob was finally formed, which became a symbol of this era. A prime example of such a character is the Dude from the cult film "The Big Lebowski." Similar types can be seen in "Dazed and Confused," "Reality Bites," and "Friday." The slacker not only seeks to minimize his efforts at work but also actively sabotages management's orders. In the film "Clerks," the characters are deliberately rude to customers and frequently leave the workplace for various reasons, whether it's a friend's funeral or a hockey game. This type has become a reflection of a certain worldview, emphasizing dissatisfaction with the system and a desire for freedom.

In this article, we examine the influence of American media on global culture. The United States is one of the leading producers of films and television series, and therefore American ideas permeate the information space of various countries, including Russia. This makes America a key trendsetter on the global stage.

One example of this influence is a work culture based on Protestant values, where work is viewed as a virtue. A culture of overwork also exists in the post-Soviet space, but it is expressed through attitudes such as "Be grateful you were hired" or "To earn a lot, you have to suffer a lot." These attitudes highlight the differences in the perception of work and its value in different cultural contexts.

How TV Series and Movies Create Myths About Work and Doom Us to Disappointment

In movies and TV series, work is often portrayed as an ideal picture. It is believed that to achieve success, you just need to believe in yourself, and a strict boss will certainly appreciate your courage and initiative. However, reality is often more complex. In practice, success at work requires not only confidence, but also hard work, skills, and the ability to cope with challenges.

Success stories are inspiring and entertaining, but they often create false expectations. When young professionals enter the job market, the reality can differ significantly from their expectations, which leads to disappointment. Let's consider five key myths that have emerged in society under the influence of mass media. These myths can distort the perception of working life and hinder adaptation to new conditions.

Film often features characters for whom work becomes the most important aspect of their lives, and sometimes the only defining factor. In such cases, the profession completely shapes the character's personality, their storyline, and their inner motivations. For example, in films about police officers, scientists, or restaurant chefs, these characters are often portrayed as true fanatics, dedicated to their work. Work not only saves them from loneliness but also gives them meaning in life. It is through professional achievements that they find their identity and self-fulfillment.

A prime example of a workaholic is police officer Nicholas from the film Hot Fuzz. His dedication to his work is so great that it is impossible to "out-serve" him. As a result, he is sent to a secluded village where there have been no murders for many years. This decision is designed to help Nicholas overcome his excessive obsession with work and not interfere with the careers of his colleagues.

The myth that work should take up all your free time is not true. Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for maintaining psychological well-being. Enjoying hobbies, relationships, creativity, and leisure plays a key role in a person's overall well-being. People who focus exclusively on their professional activities often experience loneliness, burnout, and, as a result, dissatisfaction with life. Creating harmony between work and personal interests not only improves psycho-emotional well-being but also increases productivity in the workplace.

Films and TV series often focus on characters who, after graduating from university or at the start of their careers, unexpectedly land their dream job. In these stories, the position becomes available without much effort, often due to a stroke of luck. For example, in The Devil Wears Prada, Andrea's character becomes an assistant at a fashion magazine despite having no experience in fashion journalism. In Emily in Paris, a young woman from Chicago, speaking no French, moves to Paris to work at a prestigious marketing agency. These examples illustrate how fiction often romanticizes career success, which can create inflated expectations in viewers about real-life employment.

Why is this a myth? In reality, most people don't land good positions right away. Achieving a decent salary and high status often requires several years of work in entry-level, low-paying positions. Even talent isn't always sufficient for career advancement. Networking, the ability to adapt to corporate culture, and the development of soft skills are important factors.

Modern fields and industries are rapidly changing, and universities, faced with a shortage of funding and personnel, are unable to update their curricula. This means that graduates are forced to undertake additional on-the-job training after graduation to master the specific aspects of their profession. The need for continuous learning is becoming increasingly important, as this is the only way to successfully adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing labor market.

On-screen characters effortlessly balance a busy professional life with social activity. They find time for fun gatherings with friends, romantic relationships, sports, and even travel, like Carrie from Sex and the City or the characters from Grey's Anatomy. These stories show how to harmoniously combine career and personal life, inspiring viewers to find their ideal balance.

The myth of work-life balance with a 5/2 schedule is that Maintaining harmony between your personal and work life is becoming increasingly difficult. Many people can only spare a few hours a week for a gym session and a single social outing. They also need to devote time to cooking, cleaning, laundry, and caring for pets and children. Weekends aren't enough to handle all your personal responsibilities. As a result, time for your personal life is significantly reduced, making achieving balance nearly impossible. Movies claim that finding your dream job or career is the key to harmony in life. When you do something you truly enjoy, many everyday challenges, such as competition, bills, and financial difficulties, become less pressing. There's a popular saying: find what you love, and your life will be transformed. This assertion emphasizes the importance of choosing a career that brings satisfaction and joy. Working from a passion allows you not only to enjoy yourself but also to achieve success without constant stress.

In the musical "Billy Elliot," the main character secretly skips boxing classes to attend ballet lessons without his parents' knowledge. At the film's conclusion, he is accepted to the Royal Ballet School, one of the most renowned ballet schools in the world. This was due to the admissions committee's recognition of his genuine passion for the art of dance. Although other applicants also aspired to ballet, none could match the depth of Billy's passion. His story inspires many, showing that true dedication can lead to the fulfillment of dreams.

Why is this a myth? Desire alone is not enough to achieve your goal and enter your dream university. This fact will be confirmed by any applicant who aspired to enroll at Moscow State University but failed to pass the competitive selection process. Success requires not only a dream but also hard work, meticulous preparation, and a strategic approach to the application process.

In real life, many so-called "dream jobs" often have low pay. Artists, teachers, and non-profit employees often face financial difficulties. People who believe the myth of high incomes in these fields often discover that the reality is harsher: they experience financial instability and are unable to create a comfortable living environment.

In films, characters often display decisiveness. They may unexpectedly burst into a meeting, interrupt a boss, present their project, or challenge authoritative colleagues. Such actions often lead to recognition of their courage and sometimes even career advancement. Their audacity often evokes approval from others, and they become the center of attention in the meeting room. This image of determined heroes resonates with viewers, inspiring action and demonstrating the importance of taking initiative in challenging situations.

In the series "How I Met Your Mother," the protagonist, Ted Mosby, works under the guidance of renowned architect Hammond Druthers. During a presentation to a client, Druthers unveils a skyscraper design that raises eyebrows due to its overt design. The client's reaction to the project is negative, but Druthers stubbornly refuses to admit that his concept has any flaws. This episode highlights Druthers's distinctive qualities as an architect and creates comic situations that reflect the dynamics of Ted's work and his interactions with eccentric colleagues.

Ted decides to show He shows courage and presents his project to the client—stylish, elegant, and minimalist. The clients are delighted, and the firm chooses Ted's solution, resulting in Drusers' dismissal. Subsequently, he finds himself in a difficult situation and lives with Ted for a time, experiencing loneliness and regret.

There is a common myth that eccentric behavior in the workplace is a sign of creativity and innovative thinking. In fact, employees like Ted can be perceived as confrontational, which can lead to disciplinary action, including a reprimand or dismissal. In a corporate environment, restraint, adherence to rules, and a desire to align with the team are often valued, especially among junior professionals. Therefore, it is important to adapt to the corporate culture and develop communication skills that will help avoid conflicts and promote productive teamwork.

The court ruled to ban Meta Platforms Inc. from operating in the Russian Federation. This applies to the sale of its products, including the social networks Facebook and Instagram. The basis for this decision is suspicion of extremist activity.