Nah that flanderization was so bad it's honestly the best evidence for the embezzlement theory

The first season is basically a copy of the british version and is much more cringe. It gets more light-hearted.

Your username is literally one of Michael's passwords.

I used to not like it too. But then I actually worked in a setting where everyones personality clashes in really stupid ways. People take it too seriously, Horrible jokes/pranks, nepotism, work relationships, nerds, psychos, OCD, and so on. Its such an accurate take on "I hate it here but everyday is a trip".

Just like real life after the awkward getting to know everyone phase, the series starts to make you really care about these Idiots. The show is very self aware and the cringe you feel, is the same feeling you get being a new guy in a room full of randoms who are all just "trying" to get along.

if you dont like the american one, Id recommend the british version. I understand if its still not your thing, and it is a huge time investment. Id say its worth it, LOTS of people like the show, so its a good topic to bring up, or even put on in the background.

It gets MUCH funnier over time.