To be honest, you live, you die, you're gone - most people leave nothing. If he just left these few iconic scenes, that's more than most of us will. Great performances.
Indeed dude, I won’t be remembered but I know for a fact he’ll be remembered for the laughs he gives my kids and hopefully their kids too, he’s truly a legend that’ll live on for many many years
@@paradisekohchangstyle2150 You didn't know we died? Oh we're remembered by our children and friends, by some of them for their whole lives, and perhaps by their children as shadows fora little longer... But after that, unless you're Napoleon or Tesla or Da Vinci... you're gone forever.
@@frankfisher99 Yeah...I think you took my response a bit too literally. It's depressing to be reminded of our mortality. As in: What's it all about etc.
Haha yep if management os gonna treat u like a numpty anyway might as well take advantage of it. I'm always dodging tasks but I'll have one of these excuses up my sleeve so worst case they'll just think I'm a bit slow but in reality I'm taking the piss. Most management is scum devoid of empathy who will shaft you just so they are comfortable and reap a bonus. Fuck the hierarchy in the job place and Fuck the system that makes it possible. (And breath....)
@@rodavids1210 I've had a fair few wankers as bosses who I've given the runaround and I'll act like Keith here in this scene, and other bosses who have treated me with mutual respect and I'll work ten times as hard for them. Swings and roundabouts!
@@yatesy117 funny enough I had a interview a few days ago for bar job. The wanker who interview seemed a twat and he had a really strong polish accent and I honestly could not understand him. So I turned to Keith mode lol. ..he ended interview quick with" we will let you know" we both know tho I will never hear from him again lol and
He's certainly trying but Keith is making it awfully difficult for him. I'm going to try Big Keith's strategy next time I'm up for a review. Just stonewall 'em!
If you mean this scene in particular, it's worth noting that Ricky Gervais suffered serious laughing fits whilst doing it. But you wouldn't know it from the end product. It was in an outtakes reel i saw years ago.
don't get me wrong, the office was very good, but i don't think it deserves the bumming and praise it gets. yes it's funny, but isn't a patch on one foot in the grave, fawlty towers, only fools and horses, the think blue line etc for actual writing. all imo obviously
Keith's "nah" is a miniature work of art: the weak headshake makes it dismissive, the gum makes it careless, and the blink makes it emphatic. He's the patron saint of shamelessness and radical self-acceptance. While he hasn't got much going for him, his immunity to pretense commands respect and makes him entirely beautiful.
I think he is simply in an easy job which holds little interest for him. He knows he is unlikely to get into trouble for not taking this review process seriously so why would he waste his energy on it?
An absolute work of art - highlighting the utter waste of time, energy and effort of 'work appraisals'. The many hours of my life that have been wasted by this Godforsaken process from both sides of a desk - with absolutely minimal improvement ever realised.
I agree with you. Thank God I am not alone! Why would any sane person tell his employers his weaknesses?!!! The whole point of the process is surely to undermine and demean and humiliate?! It's like trusting Human Resources (HR). The very name gives the game away?! Anybody who thinks appraisals are useful is stupid or a liar. There are no other possibilities. And yet the whole country (UK) is run on this lie. If you protest, the response is: can't you play the game? Answer: NO.
Barry Allen I think you have been a victim of an employer who did not invest time and money in you, which is a shame really. Somewhere in your career you were probably under some authoritarian management, causing you to view work as some sort of exploitation scheme and making you an 'X' employee (McGregor's X and Y theory). Trust me, if you are part of an organisation where you are seen as a valuable asset, you perception on these kind of Human Resource practices will change.
+Barry Allen I'm glad managers and bosses don't see the point in them either. I've forgotten what I've written down on them the moment they're passed on, and I'm meant to review my progress in these areas 6 months later? Completely pointless
+Tom 22 Completety agree my friend. About as useless as that other complete waste of time - 'Employee Opinion Surveys'. Another 15+ minutes stolen from people's precious time; whereby management are simply looking for 70% of the lemmings employed to tick 'fairly satisfied' or above - in order to convince the company everything is just tickerty-boo; whilst various layers of management cop a 'work-related' bonus. I worked my way up to senior management from sod all in a very well-known UK utility company. It was worth it if only to consistently give my (honest) feedback on both of these ideas.......namely "this is complete bollocks and an utter waste of people's time and company money". I was always deemed 'a maverick'. I just considered it being completely truthful. :-)
The way Keith slowly chews his gum and says "I thought you filled that in" and Brent replies is a microcosm of banal office life. Keith KNOWS he has to but he can't be bothered. Brent KNOWS he can't be bothered but can't say so outright and has to play along with the charade.
No, disagree. Keith wouldn't know he had to fill that in. If he did know, he'd have simply ticked all the "Don't Know" boxes and be done with it in 5 seconds. It was only simple multiple choice questions, not written answers. Keith is actually a very honest person - too honest. He says whatever he thinks. He wouldn't be afraid to say he couldn't be bothered filling something out.
@@terri6854I disagree, respectfully of course, I believe his careless attitude throughout the show tells me that he just brushed it aside and hope management wouldn’t pick up on it, I guess the scene is up for interpretation though and that’s the beauty of Keith, RIP
I can't get through this scene without being in tears. From Keith's complete lack of caring, to David actually trying to do his job to his increasing exasperation with Keith. God this show is so good.
@@Leo-qe3gl ....they had to cut that scene every time after he said Eczema as they were in tears of laughter and couldn't carry on....after a break they continued.
Will never tire of watching this. So perfectly encapsulates the absolutely inane world many of us who work in offices deal with - pointless exercises being forced on managers to do, by compliance/HR departments no one knows, on staff who don’t care. The combination of how Keith’s dressed, sat, chewing gum, answers is just pure comedy gold. Thanks for leaving this for us to laugh at forever. RIP ❤
@@alanlawlor3134 Ewen's portrayal of Big Keith, a minor character in the series was memorable. He didn't have many scenes but everyone remembers them. In a similar vein, Genial Harry Grout, a character in Porridge played by Peter Vaughan appeared in just three episodes but he was always looming in the background.
One of my employers (1980s) decided that they were going to start having appraisals. We all dreaded it, apart from one woman who we described as terminally dim, she said she was quite looking forward to hers. The rest of us were puzzled at this until we asked her what she thought happened. Her answer was "well, they sit you in an office and tell you how good you are". After a bit more probing it turned out that she thought it was not "an appraisal" but rather "a praisal", which she thought must mean "being lavished with praise".
@@BossySwan She would have done. Here's another... She once got a new car. She was quite pleased with, who wouldn't be. However, she told us that "it has two speedos". I tried to put her right, and said that the other 'speedo' was actually a rev counter, and when she didn't know what that was, I went on to explain that it told her how fast the engine was going. "You must think I'm stupid" she said, "the engine's going the same speed as the car!"
The way he briefly looks at the camera at 2:05. It's subtle moments like this which make The Office one of the most ingeniously funniest comedy shows of all time.
Looking at the camera is what Oliver Hardy used to do when faced with Stan Laurel's stupidity. So Ricky Gervais has studied the greats, the pioneers of modern on screen comedy.
Keith's "What are the options?" became a catchphrase for me and my wife, whenever we were trying to decide on something.. anything... be it a holiday, a takeaway, paint colour for the sitting room, party clothes... anything. Sad to hear of Ewen's passing, but thankful for giving us this fantastic scene (amongst many others), and that absolutely brilliantly delivered line! 😂
And that's why comedy is so important... it gives others such joy they incorporate it into their OWN LIVES... I laughed just thinking of you and your wife using that line in any given scenario. 😂
Love the fact that people are coming back and really appreciating Ewen’s performance. Very understated, full of truth and a mundanity. Perfectly encapsulating everything about 9-5 working life.
20 years on, 02:33 still makes me laugh 😂 😂 😂 To have the flawlessly written script is one thing, but to have it acted out to near perfection is something we will probably never see again.
Simply Superb! This show was a masterclass. Will never forget it. The countless times I asked my dad to rewind and watch a whole scene again, he didn't mind, we were on the same page. Comedy at its best! So subtle but soooo class!
The way Brent nearly shouts 'not at all' at 2:34 is brilliant. But big Ewen's performace is incredible. The pause every time before he says 'what are the options' absolutely kills me.
Have viewed this clip so many times over the years and it always brings tears to my eyes. Such a spot-on satire of the futile absurdity of an office job annual appraisal! "What are the options again?" 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
This is absolute gold, Keith is fantastic, love how you see Brent trying to keep a lid on his ever increasing exasperation. And Keith with the constant gum chewing and complete apathy, brilliant acting!
I always thought Keith was the coolest person in the office. He did his job, no hassles, went home, played the occasional prank on his colleagues - everything he did was deliberate, to cultivate the personality and reputation he had. The creators of the american office don’t appear to have understood that and just made his counterpart, Kevin, slow and stupid, forgetting that you can’t do that job without some intelligence.
Kevin got dumber as the series progressed, so dumb it didn't seem believable in the end that the could be an accountant for so long before Dwight eventually fired him.
@@deanandthebeans857 Well that’s interesting because the office is a ‘documentary’ so it is not abnormal to look at the camera because it is expected to be there. However in an L and H film it would be quite radical to look at the camera. I will have to look out for it when I next watch one of their films.
RIP big man I had to come back to this clip when I found out about your passing. You shoudi have been used for more watching thsi back so funny rip sir
This is possibly the best 3 minute clip on RUclips. Ewen you will be missed but thanks to you being an absolute legend in The Office - you will NEVER be forgotten.
I love the idea that the documentary crew edited David to look worse than he was, and simply cut around all of his competent bits. So in this scene, the crew kept it because Keith was so funny even though it ran completely counter to the characterization they had built for David.
One of my favourite scenes from The Office, where Keith being Keith gives us a taste of his comedic genius by delivering a scene of such quality that he never cracks his face once. RIP Ewen and thanks for the memories.
Drollery at it's finest. Keith is actually the straight man in this scene. His responses trigger funnier and funnier reactions from the exasperated David Brent. In short, both actors doing what each does best.
@@elbinkogrande I'm going to say both yes and no to what you said. Yes, ostensibly you are correct in the technical/traditional sense but no because Keith is just tooooo deadpan funny in this and throughout the series to be considered a true straight man. This was indeed a case of Ricky Gervais doing a John Cleese though (my paraphrasing of your words, there).
@@bodsnvimto Keith is, indeed, wonderfully funny, but that doesn't preclude him assuming the role of "straight man" in this particular bit. His deadpan responses (ironically) create the comic propulsion in the scene (that is, Brent's increasingly agitated responses). And part of Gervais' great talent, is perfectly underplaying the building exasperation. Also, Keith's lunchroom scenes with Tim and with Dawn, were perhaps the funniest bits in the show. He was masterful. BTW ~ I think Fawlty Towers was genius. 12 gems. And everyone played "straight man" to Basil … even the very funny, Manuel.
@@elbinkogrande Yes, I'll go with that. All of it. Nice to have an online "chat" that doesn't descend into the feeling that you are replying to (and later giving up on) an angry 9yr-old who is in reality middle-aged.
Came here like many on hearing of Ewen's death. But I've just watched it several times, spotting some new detail each time. The acting by both is absolutely sublime.
He’s probably capable enough to do the minimum required, which prevents the company from sacking him. He’s aware of that, which gives him the freedom to be completely careless and get away with everything. He’s actually the sharpest character, he’s happy the way he is, he doesn’t look for drama nor he attracts it
Not really. He likely does what he's asked to, but hates these STUPID reviews. I am with a company that says it's probably going to fire me in 3 weeks. REGARDLESS they've done a verification of competency on a bunch of machines, one they done TWICE, verified it and I'm STILL crap on it for lack of time actually using it. I had to do 4 TIMES the normal amount of induction crap to get the job 2 months ago. Now they've UPDATED it and expect me to do it ALL AGAIN, REGARDLESS of the fact I'm fired in 3 weeks. This time instead of online, it's like 70 pages OF PAPER, they dump it on us all on Friday and HAVE TO finish it by Monday. I had WEEKEND PLANS and now I've got 70 pages of crap to go thru to STILL be fired in 3 weeks. Feel like just quitting.
@@OffGridInvestorsounds like someone there is pissed with you and being a little spiteful. I wouldn't bother with it. Enjoy your plans then focus on yourself and what you want to do instead of working at this place. Don't quit just yet though, get your pathway sorted first if you can.
Ewen's sad and untimely passing brought me back to this clip. A wonderful example of the British "can't do" attitude. Let's be honest, we've all worked with people like Keith. God bless Ewen, you made comedy gold with Ricky 🤗💙
Keith's character was originally an extra (if I've got my facts right) but the guy playing him stood out for his comedic genius. That appraisal scene took loads of takes due to them cracking up!
I worked in a garage where a bloke very similar to Keith, kept on getting promoted and eventually made manager. A couple of years after I left, they went bust.
@@denishoulan1491 That's a scenario that unfortunately gets played out all every day the world over. The world is full of "Keiths". Nowt you can do but step away lol
This really was a masterclass in under performing in the actor playing Keith's character. Every stereotype we assume about accountants is there. The dry papery voice, devoid of inflection, personality, warmth or humour. Boring, insipid, monotone. No body language, facial expression, or mental alertness. He gives the impression that not only is no inner thought process going on, or awareness, but that there is barely any sentient life form at all in Keith. It's a fantastic piece of acting by just repressing every instinct to attract attention to himself & refusing to let you become aware that he is in on the joke.
I always got the impression he was only like that at work because he hates his boring job and is only willing to put the minimum amount of effort into all aspects of it.
@@shelbyvillerules9962 It's like that in any area that involves actual expertise. If you were a qualified accountant, would you be interested in justifying yourself to an office manager who knew precisely nothing?
Watch all of the episodes season 1 and 2 and the Christmas Special. That's all there was many UK television series only run 2 seasons and then voluntarily cash it in unlike shows here in the US which drag on to milk the cash cow for all it's worth. The show is genius, much different than the US version if that's what you're familiar with.
No offence to the Americans but the office they have is too much like a typical sitcom and doesn't capture the realistic, documentary style comedy that makes the UK version so good. The American office seems way too scripted and wacky as if the actors really are acting out characters whereas with the UK office it seemed like they were all real people genuinely being recorded at work.
David's glances to the camera, finger signs and change in inflection of voice tone infer his frustration are in complete contrast to Keith's emotionless body in the chair and constant chewing which show his complete lack of interest, really make this scene. You can almost sympathetically feel David's pain but also guiltily and uncontrollably want to laugh at the pair of them. Absolute masterclass in writing and acting.
RIP big Keith, dude was so funny and a big part of what made the show, the way he played his character definitely made it feel like he was a guy you’d work in an office with, love that guy
RIP Ewen. You brought so much laughter to so many people.
Taken too young. Made me laugh so much. RIP
Respect to you, Ewen
And he’ll continue to bring that laughter to generations may he RIP
@Phil well said!
Hi Keith, David here. Yep, bad news - we're gonna have to let you go, mate. R.I.P
To be honest, you live, you die, you're gone - most people leave nothing. If he just left these few iconic scenes, that's more than most of us will. Great performances.
You have really just depressed me... And I'm suffering from insomnia at the moment. I guess that doesn't help state of mind.😕
Indeed dude, I won’t be remembered but I know for a fact he’ll be remembered for the laughs he gives my kids and hopefully their kids too, he’s truly a legend that’ll live on for many many years
True ❤
@@paradisekohchangstyle2150 You didn't know we died? Oh we're remembered by our children and friends, by some of them for their whole lives, and perhaps by their children as shadows fora little longer... But after that, unless you're Napoleon or Tesla or Da Vinci... you're gone forever.
@@frankfisher99 Yeah...I think you took my response a bit too literally. It's depressing to be reminded of our mortality. As in: What's it all about etc.
Keith is awesome. He provides exactly the right amount of enthusiasm and honesty that an accounts job for a paper company in Slough deserves.
Ha ha.....very good.
😂😂😂😂exactly tell them NOTHING,cos they just want your data info to pass it on to third parties to sell without your permission.
You could tell Ricky Gervais parked David Brent somewhere else to do that scene, to let Keith be the clown.
What are the options again?@@mummyd1990
Too much for a paper firm in Slough
RIP Ewen MacIntosh (December 25, 1973 - February 19, 2024), aged 50
You will be remembered as a legend.
A minor role that made a huge impression.
How did he die?
@@MrIlleism It doesn't seem to have ever been released how Ewen died which might mean it wasn't just natural causes.
Very much so.
RIP Ewen, thank you so much for the laughter and playing Keith perfectly
"Very much so."
"Do you remember what the question was?"
"Nah."
That is one of the funniest lines ever! Nah.
+s Humphrey timing is awesome
@@ihaveabignobful lol and he doesn't even stop chewing his gum as he says it
Any companies still putting out work appraisals, please watch this... and FUCKING STOP DOING IT!
The delivery of "nah" was absolutely spot on
"I thought you filled that in" I've used that philosophy throughout my life, cheers Keith.
Don't know again...
Haha yep if management os gonna treat u like a numpty anyway might as well take advantage of it. I'm always dodging tasks but I'll have one of these excuses up my sleeve so worst case they'll just think I'm a bit slow but in reality I'm taking the piss. Most management is scum devoid of empathy who will shaft you just so they are comfortable and reap a bonus. Fuck the hierarchy in the job place and Fuck the system that makes it possible. (And breath....)
@@rodavids1210 I've had a fair few wankers as bosses who I've given the runaround and I'll act like Keith here in this scene, and other bosses who have treated me with mutual respect and I'll work ten times as hard for them. Swings and roundabouts!
@@yatesy117 funny enough I had a interview a few days ago for bar job. The wanker who interview seemed a twat and he had a really strong polish accent and I honestly could not understand him. So I turned to Keith mode lol. ..he ended interview quick with" we will let you know" we both know tho I will never hear from him again lol and
Hugh Mungus papa bless!
One of the few times David actually act like a normal person and does his job :P
+Jonathan Reite (Jonrei) It's funny because most bosses in real life don't respect job performance reviews lol
Yes, I know what you mean. Wonderful scene :D
Tom 22 Youve just had horrible bosses
He's certainly trying but Keith is making it awfully difficult for him. I'm going to try Big Keith's strategy next time I'm up for a review. Just stonewall 'em!
I was about to say the same thing, this is one of the few times you see David behaving in the manner that an actual boss might.
Glad to see all the people coming here to pay respect to this legend after the sad news ❤
🙏🕯️
Very sad. Life is tough.
None of them actually give a shit to be fair mate. Internet pile on. Nothing more. The bloke was skint when he died.
RIP Ewan, you'll be missed but forever but will remain in classic scenes like this
I honestly think this is one of the best written and acted pieces of sitcom ever
MrJaynash fawlty towers is funnier.
it is perfection; so good, you can even play it by radio and not view it and it still cracks you up
If you mean this scene in particular, it's worth noting that Ricky Gervais suffered serious laughing fits whilst doing it. But you wouldn't know it from the end product. It was in an outtakes reel i saw years ago.
@@medinabello19 Annoying slapstick althouh I love Prunella Scales
don't get me wrong, the office was very good, but i don't think it deserves the bumming and praise it gets. yes it's funny, but isn't a patch on one foot in the grave, fawlty towers, only fools and horses, the think blue line etc for actual writing. all imo obviously
Keith's "nah" is a miniature work of art: the weak headshake makes it dismissive, the gum makes it careless, and the blink makes it emphatic. He's the patron saint of shamelessness and radical self-acceptance. While he hasn't got much going for him, his immunity to pretense commands respect and makes him entirely beautiful.
he seems like a smart bloke. just doesnt care about anything
That was a glorious summation
Hammer Of Justice . Cares nothing for that farrago .
I think he is simply in an easy job which holds little interest for him. He knows he is unlikely to get into trouble for not taking this review process seriously so why would he waste his energy on it?
William Foy 95% of office-based work is the same
An absolute work of art - highlighting the utter waste of time, energy and effort of 'work appraisals'. The many hours of my life that have been wasted by this Godforsaken process from both sides of a desk - with absolutely minimal improvement ever realised.
I agree with you. Thank God I am not alone! Why would any sane person tell his employers his weaknesses?!!! The whole point of the process is surely to undermine and demean and humiliate?! It's like trusting Human Resources (HR). The very name gives the game away?! Anybody who thinks appraisals are useful is stupid or a liar. There are no other possibilities. And yet the whole country (UK) is run on this lie. If you protest, the response is: can't you play the game? Answer: NO.
Barry Allen I think you have been a victim of an employer who did not invest time and money in you, which is a shame really. Somewhere in your career you were probably under some authoritarian management, causing you to view work as some sort of exploitation scheme and making you an 'X' employee (McGregor's X and Y theory). Trust me, if you are part of an organisation where you are seen as a valuable asset, you perception on these kind of Human Resource practices will change.
What do u right down for weaknesses so u dont end up getting the sack?? I bite my nails??
+Barry Allen I'm glad managers and bosses don't see the point in them either. I've forgotten what I've written down on them the moment they're passed on, and I'm meant to review my progress in these areas 6 months later? Completely pointless
+Tom 22 Completety agree my friend. About as useless as that other complete waste of time - 'Employee Opinion Surveys'. Another 15+ minutes stolen from people's precious time; whereby management are simply looking for 70% of the lemmings employed to tick 'fairly satisfied' or above - in order to convince the company everything is just tickerty-boo; whilst various layers of management cop a 'work-related' bonus. I worked my way up to senior management from sod all in a very well-known UK utility company. It was worth it if only to consistently give my (honest) feedback on both of these ideas.......namely "this is complete bollocks and an utter waste of people's time and company money". I was always deemed 'a maverick'. I just considered it being completely truthful. :-)
I have watched this scene so many times, absolute masterpiece. Big Keith will be remembered forever. RIP Ewen.
The way Keith slowly chews his gum and says "I thought you filled that in" and Brent replies is a microcosm of banal office life. Keith KNOWS he has to but he can't be bothered. Brent KNOWS he can't be bothered but can't say so outright and has to play along with the charade.
The soft "No, no, no, you fill that in..." is fucking genius
You've described the scene perfectly.
And we all have either done that ourselves or had someone do the same to us. Its absolutely genius
No, disagree. Keith wouldn't know he had to fill that in. If he did know, he'd have simply ticked all the "Don't Know" boxes and be done with it in 5 seconds. It was only simple multiple choice questions, not written answers.
Keith is actually a very honest person - too honest. He says whatever he thinks. He wouldn't be afraid to say he couldn't be bothered filling something out.
@@terri6854I disagree, respectfully of course, I believe his careless attitude throughout the show tells me that he just brushed it aside and hope management wouldn’t pick up on it, I guess the scene is up for interpretation though and that’s the beauty of Keith, RIP
I can't get through this scene without being in tears. From Keith's complete lack of caring, to David actually trying to do his job to his increasing exasperation with Keith. God this show is so good.
"Eczema"😂
Don't cry mate it's not a sad scene. I think it's funny.
“Always the same!”
@@Leo-qe3gl ....they had to cut that scene every time after he said Eczema as they were in tears of laughter and couldn't carry on....after a break they continued.
@@blaze1148 😂
The acting is amazing. Even his breathing. You can feel patience leaving his body. Genius
Yes. Reminds me of the two Ronnies " four candles" sketch a little bit.
I love how he's trying to keep his cool for the camera, but is very much starting to lose his temper. Ricky's a great actor.
+Sonny Layton Don't know.
Yeah, that extra layer of performing for a camera crew really adds to the depth of the comedy :D
Why would Ricky be losing his temper? It’s fuckin scripted lol
ChiefChimp david is losing his temper, ricky is acting it out. i’m guessing that’s what they meant
I completely misread OPs comment. My bad!
2:17 😂 The extra "always the same" gets me every time. He interrupts himself to remind him again.
That multiple choice sequence is one of the greatest scenes in the history of TV comedy.
"Always the same."
Don't know.
RIP Ewen MacIntosh, I loved this appraisal scene from The Office and your character Keith was one of the highlights of such an amazing show.
As a middle-aged middle manager of middling ability, this is as much of a training video as a comedy sketch. RIP Big Keith.
Big Keith knows exactly what he's doing, he's my hero.
Will never tire of watching this. So perfectly encapsulates the absolutely inane world many of us who work in offices deal with - pointless exercises being forced on managers to do, by compliance/HR departments no one knows, on staff who don’t care.
The combination of how Keith’s dressed, sat, chewing gum, answers is just pure comedy gold. Thanks for leaving this for us to laugh at forever. RIP ❤
Awful sad about Ewen... this scene is possibly the best of the office. And there were numerous classic scenes. This type of comedy won't be made again
@@alanlawlor3134 Ewen's portrayal of Big Keith, a minor character in the series was memorable. He didn't have many scenes but everyone remembers them. In a similar vein, Genial Harry Grout, a character in Porridge played by Peter Vaughan appeared in just three episodes but he was always looming in the background.
One of my employers (1980s) decided that they were going to start having appraisals. We all dreaded it, apart from one woman who we described as terminally dim, she said she was quite looking forward to hers. The rest of us were puzzled at this until we asked her what she thought happened.
Her answer was "well, they sit you in an office and tell you how good you are".
After a bit more probing it turned out that she thought it was not "an appraisal" but rather "a praisal", which she thought must mean "being lavished with praise".
Oh, Englis is my second language, I thought it was the same word, but yeah, oops, it's just a neutral word for evaluation
Did she ask for time off in loo?
@@BossySwan She would have done.
Here's another...
She once got a new car. She was quite pleased with, who wouldn't be. However, she told us that "it has two speedos". I tried to put her right, and said that the other 'speedo' was actually a rev counter, and when she didn't know what that was, I went on to explain that it told her how fast the engine was going.
"You must think I'm stupid" she said, "the engine's going the same speed as the car!"
@@CaptSlog she sounds like a right hoot 😆
@@CaptSlog 🤣🤣
Love Keith's apathy in this scene. It pretty much encapsulates my attitude towards any job I've ever had.
DATS WAT MAID UZ GRATE
@@MrDaiseymay WE WUZ KANGZ
And your username is fuckeverything...right
Apart from choosing your username, good job!
Tell me about it!
One of the best side characters in sitcom history and apparently a top bloke. RIP Ewen.
Sitcom? It’s a documentary.
The way he briefly looks at the camera at 2:05. It's subtle moments like this which make The Office one of the most ingeniously funniest comedy shows of all time.
Looking at the camera is what Oliver Hardy used to do when faced with Stan Laurel's stupidity. So Ricky Gervais has studied the greats, the pioneers of modern on screen comedy.
Keith's "What are the options?" became a catchphrase for me and my wife, whenever we were trying to decide on something.. anything... be it a holiday, a takeaway, paint colour for the sitting room, party clothes... anything.
Sad to hear of Ewen's passing, but thankful for giving us this fantastic scene (amongst many others), and that absolutely brilliantly delivered line! 😂
And that's why comedy is so important... it gives others such joy they incorporate it into their OWN LIVES... I laughed just thinking of you and your wife using that line in any given scenario. 😂
RIP and thank you. This short scene is comedic genius. The timing is impeccable, the performaces outstanding.
Great example of an actor who just had "something" and as a result better and better lines were written for him.
You're right, Ricky is a natural actor.
@@mannixflinn6227 i think he was talking about Keith
@@jackseaton7486 I know. I was being whatever that word is.
@@mannixflinn6227 Do you want the options again?
@@TonyEnglandUK I thought they were always the same?
"You've left this section completely blank Keith. You haven't done the Q & A."
"I thought you filled that in."
"Under strengths you've just put accounts.......I mean that's kinda your job'
*Blank look on Keith's face*
How much of the Xanax did Big Keith take?
All of it. All of the Xanax. :P
Genius stuff! 🤣
Blank look and continues chewing his gum
@@josephwilles29 How much of the Xanax did Big Keith take? What are the options ?
well done misquoting
Love the fact that people are coming back and really appreciating Ewen’s performance. Very understated, full of truth and a mundanity. Perfectly encapsulating everything about 9-5 working life.
20 years on, 02:33 still makes me laugh 😂 😂 😂
To have the flawlessly written script is one thing, but to have it acted out to near perfection is something we will probably never see again.
Brent desperately trying not to get annoyed and remain professional. Love that bit
God bless thank you for all the comedy you gave us R.I.P absolute legend.😢
Simply Superb! This show was a masterclass. Will never forget it. The countless times I asked my dad to rewind and watch a whole scene again, he didn't mind, we were on the same page. Comedy at its best! So subtle but soooo class!
Aw, how cool that you watched with your dad.
“Rewind” now there’s a bloke from the 90’s 😜
Brent actually doing his job…the subtle look at the camera is what made this clip hilarious!
There should have been more of Keith. He was a comedy sensation.
Less is more 😂
Him and Finchy took the show next to Gareth and David.
Fanny Pack!
@@CrueLoaf Not yer minge!🤣
He'd have been ideal for political satire where he as a politician gets asked questions about important things.. 🤣
The way Brent nearly shouts 'not at all' at 2:34 is brilliant. But big Ewen's performace is incredible. The pause every time before he says 'what are the options' absolutely kills me.
It's actually sort of funny where David is playing the straight man role to somebody else.
So true. It's the only time he plays the role as manager, it seems, in the entire series. :)
you;'ll like Extras then
Actually, Keith is the straight man eliciting funnier and funnier responses from the exasperated David.
@@elbinkogrande Good point-you could definitely argue that as well.
Never thought about it like that, good point!
This scene never fails to crack me up every time, COMEDY GENIUS.
Have viewed this clip so many times over the years and it always brings tears to my eyes. Such a spot-on satire of the futile absurdity of an office job annual appraisal! "What are the options again?" 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Thanks for the laughs Ewan, RIP.
RIP Ewen. An absolute gentleman and legend.
The Office's Keith, a character totally devoid of a personality but hilarious.
That's what happens when you just stay in and watch Peak Practice with your life.
Storm Hawk thats his personality
Not totally devoid. He likes scotch eggs IIRC.
The actor who played as Keith was in Little Britain. Appeared in a couple of episodes. Pretty underrated guy.
Budding singer and DJ
under weakness' you've put excema
+Paul Grant Yeah, on my feet
Well I bought that, at Halfords...
its the fella that nicked me job!
eczema*
Weaknesses
My favorite scene from The Office, captures the painful mindlessness of office life perfectly. RIP
Haven’t watched this for ages, but in tears of laughter. RIP Ewen ‘Keith’ MacIntosh.
This is absolute gold, Keith is fantastic, love how you see Brent trying to keep a lid on his ever increasing exasperation. And Keith with the constant gum chewing and complete apathy, brilliant acting!
Very much so.
Don’t know.
I always thought Keith was the coolest person in the office. He did his job, no hassles, went home, played the occasional prank on his colleagues - everything he did was deliberate, to cultivate the personality and reputation he had. The creators of the american office don’t appear to have understood that and just made his counterpart, Kevin, slow and stupid, forgetting that you can’t do that job without some intelligence.
Kevin got dumber as the series progressed, so dumb it didn't seem believable in the end that the could be an accountant for so long before Dwight eventually fired him.
@@KomickleptoHe was a poker genius though... 😉
Totally agree. Kevin became a cartoonish character, beyond believable.
@@YourLocalGP same with dwight and everyone thinks he's the greatest character ever. It makes me sick
@@McGeezleIt's because Yanks are idiots and think everything they do is better than everyone else
"Do you remember what the question was?" "Nah"
David Brent’s look at the camera after the second don’t know is absolute genius comedy.
Yes that's when he realises that Keith is going to say " don't know " every time!! L
@@donnn-sg4mk In the outtakes, that's where Ricky breaks up laughing
That's borrowed from Oliver Hardy.
@@deanandthebeans857 Well that’s interesting because the office is a ‘documentary’ so it is not abnormal to look at the camera because it is expected to be there. However in an L and H film it would be quite radical to look at the camera. I will have to look out for it when I next watch one of their films.
True. I think he twitches his tie a few too many times though - just slightly overdoes the nuance there.
RIP big man I had to come back to this clip when I found out about your passing. You shoudi have been used for more watching thsi back so funny rip sir
This is possibly the best 3 minute clip on RUclips. Ewen you will be missed but thanks to you being an absolute legend in The Office - you will NEVER be forgotten.
This is the only time David Brent is actually doing his job. :-D
And it’s still a waste of time.
And now we know why he never does it again.
I'm honestly in tears at this scene
baby kitten I actually thought it was funny. What did you find sad about it?
Don't know
Robert Johnson if don't know wasn't there... what would you put?
What are the options ?
NOT AT ALL.....to SOME EXTENT....very much so....don't know
Seriously, one of the best performances I've ever seen on a tv series... Superb!
I love the idea that the documentary crew edited David to look worse than he was, and simply cut around all of his competent bits. So in this scene, the crew kept it because Keith was so funny even though it ran completely counter to the characterization they had built for David.
One of my favourite scenes from The Office, where Keith being Keith gives us a taste of his comedic genius by delivering a scene of such quality that he never cracks his face once.
RIP Ewen and thanks for the memories.
David Brent’s look at the camera after the second 'don’t know' is reminiscent of Oliver Hardy's looks of despair to the camera. Brilliant :)
This is sublime comedy. Unsurpassed. Thanks, Ewen and Ricky!
I've never noticed this before, but ironically it's probably Brent trying to be as professional as at any time during the series.
Hilarious him trying to keep his cool.
Keith is outstanding too.
Drollery at it's finest. Keith is actually the straight man in this scene. His responses trigger funnier and funnier reactions from the exasperated David Brent. In short, both actors doing what each does best.
@@elbinkogrande I'm going to say both yes and no to what you said. Yes, ostensibly you are correct in the technical/traditional sense but no because Keith is just tooooo deadpan funny in this and throughout the series to be considered a true straight man. This was indeed a case of Ricky Gervais doing a John Cleese though (my paraphrasing of your words, there).
@@bodsnvimto Keith is, indeed, wonderfully funny, but that doesn't preclude him assuming the role of "straight man" in this particular bit. His deadpan responses (ironically) create the comic propulsion in the scene (that is, Brent's increasingly agitated responses). And part of Gervais' great talent, is perfectly underplaying the building exasperation.
Also, Keith's lunchroom scenes with Tim and with Dawn, were perhaps the funniest bits in the show. He was masterful.
BTW ~ I think Fawlty Towers was genius. 12 gems. And everyone played "straight man" to Basil … even the very funny, Manuel.
@@elbinkogrande Yes, I'll go with that. All of it. Nice to have an online "chat" that doesn't descend into the feeling that you are replying to (and later giving up on) an angry 9yr-old who is in reality middle-aged.
One of the funniest scenes in one of the greatest comedies of all time. RIP, big man
RIP Keith. You'll never be forgotten.
Rest in peace Big man.Your character Keith was awesome.
Absolutely HILARIOUS! I love how obviously annoyed Brent is getting yet somehow managed to remain calm hahahahaha
RIP Ewen, he’ll be remembered forever for his incredible role in this incredible show.
Came here like many on hearing of Ewen's death. But I've just watched it several times, spotting some new detail each time. The acting by both is absolutely sublime.
This is the funniest thing I have ever seen in a show. I was crying laughing the first time I watched it. It's absolute perfection.
Has to be one of the best ever sketch,up there with parrot and cheese sketch from.python.
I have to do mindfulness at school. One of the questions we were asked was, 'What makes you stressed?'
I wrote, 'Mindfulness.'
Magnificent.
I'dve said 'Don't know'.
EXCELLENT!!!
did you have any options to choose from?
Big Keith, chewing gum at the performance appraisal.
At least he left his Scotch Egg behind.
Rank 😂
Like a champ!
Big Keith is too powerful to be contained
He’s probably capable enough to do the minimum required, which prevents the company from sacking him. He’s aware of that, which gives him the freedom to be completely careless and get away with everything. He’s actually the sharpest character, he’s happy the way he is, he doesn’t look for drama nor he attracts it
Don’t work at a level you’re not paid to.
Not really. He likely does what he's asked to, but hates these STUPID reviews. I am with a company that says it's probably going to fire me in 3 weeks. REGARDLESS they've done a verification of competency on a bunch of machines, one they done TWICE, verified it and I'm STILL crap on it for lack of time actually using it. I had to do 4 TIMES the normal amount of induction crap to get the job 2 months ago. Now they've UPDATED it and expect me to do it ALL AGAIN, REGARDLESS of the fact I'm fired in 3 weeks. This time instead of online, it's like 70 pages OF PAPER, they dump it on us all on Friday and HAVE TO finish it by Monday. I had WEEKEND PLANS and now I've got 70 pages of crap to go thru to STILL be fired in 3 weeks. Feel like just quitting.
@@OffGridInvestorsounds like someone there is pissed with you and being a little spiteful.
I wouldn't bother with it. Enjoy your plans then focus on yourself and what you want to do instead of working at this place. Don't quit just yet though, get your pathway sorted first if you can.
It’s the best attitude to have at work
@@OffGridInvestorsorry for my late reply. I hope it all went well!
RIP Ewen. You and Big Keith will be missed.
No he won't be missed. it is all on video. His real life nobody gave a damn about actually.
Ewen's sad and untimely passing brought me back to this clip. A wonderful example of the British "can't do" attitude. Let's be honest, we've all worked with people like Keith. God bless Ewen, you made comedy gold with Ricky 🤗💙
I love Brent when he glances at the camera 📸!!
Keith's character was originally an extra (if I've got my facts right) but the guy playing him stood out for his comedic genius. That appraisal scene took loads of takes due to them cracking up!
One of my favourite scenes in tv ever, RIP Keith
RIP Ewan. Never failed to make me laugh as Big Keith, especially this brilliant scene. Such an underrated actor.
David's increased frustration without getting angry is so well acted...........
"always the same" 😂😂😂
I used to work with a bloke like this. Last I heard he was doing well, promoted to HR Manager.
Do you mean with a bloke like David Brent? or with a bloke like Keith?
I worked in a garage where a bloke very similar to Keith, kept on getting promoted and eventually made manager.
A couple of years after I left, they went bust.
@@denishoulan1491 That's a scenario that unfortunately gets played out all every day the world over. The world is full of "Keiths". Nowt you can do but step away lol
Rip Keith. An amazing character. The eczema got him in the end 😢.
Rest in Peace Big Keith
I don’t think this show will ever be beaten….Absolute work of genius.
I come here to inspire myself every time I have a performance review coming up.
same!! about to starting typing up the useless crap!! "it's the most wonderful time, of the year" - said no one ever!
But this, this vid is gold.
This really was a masterclass in under performing in the actor playing Keith's character. Every stereotype we assume about accountants is there. The dry papery voice, devoid of inflection, personality, warmth or humour. Boring, insipid, monotone. No body language, facial expression, or mental alertness. He gives the impression that not only is no inner thought process going on, or awareness, but that there is barely any sentient life form at all in Keith. It's a fantastic piece of acting by just repressing every instinct to attract attention to himself & refusing to let you become aware that he is in on the joke.
I have been a Tax Accountant for many a long day and you perfectly encapsulate me....
But remember, Keith can guarantee a woman an orgasm.
I always got the impression he was only like that at work because he hates his boring job and is only willing to put the minimum amount of effort into all aspects of it.
@@shelbyvillerules9962 It's like that in any area that involves actual expertise. If you were a qualified accountant, would you be interested in justifying yourself to an office manager who knew precisely nothing?
2:04 it's small things like that glance David gives to the camera that make this show so funny
Keith is an out and out legend. Seriously amazing acting.
Brilliantly executed bit. The pacing - rhythm and timing - is spot on. After multiple viewings, it still makes me laugh.
I've never actually seen the UK's The Office but I died laughing at this clip 😂 definitely going to give it a watch now
I hope you enjoy it. It's one of my favourite comedies.
Watch all of the episodes season 1 and 2 and the Christmas Special. That's all there was many UK television series only run 2 seasons and then voluntarily cash it in unlike shows here in the US which drag on to milk the cash cow for all it's worth. The show is genius, much different than the US version if that's what you're familiar with.
No offence to the Americans but the office they have is too much like a typical sitcom and doesn't capture the realistic, documentary style comedy that makes the UK version so good.
The American office seems way too scripted and wacky as if the actors really are acting out characters whereas with the UK office it seemed like they were all real people genuinely being recorded at work.
I can see what you mean tbh...but I still think the US Office was way funnier.
Nah. The US Office is a poor copy. Bit like the US is a poor copy of Britain, really.
RIP Ewen MacIntosh.
RIP Ewan, this is one of my favourite scenes in the whole show, you were effortlessly hilarious
The actor who plays "big Keith" is incredibly Brilliant. I always come back to re-watch this clip when I need a good laugh.
one of my favorite scenes from the UK office
David's glances to the camera, finger signs and change in inflection of voice tone infer his frustration are in complete contrast to Keith's emotionless body in the chair and constant chewing which show his complete lack of interest, really make this scene. You can almost sympathetically feel David's pain but also guiltily and uncontrollably want to laugh at the pair of them.
Absolute masterclass in writing and acting.
RIP big Keith, dude was so funny and a big part of what made the show, the way he played his character definitely made it feel like he was a guy you’d work in an office with, love that guy
Perfection
The absurdity of life held up to gentle and exquisite ridicule
I can never get enough of that confident head nod he does when talking to anyone
RIP Ewen. I remember your scenes fondly and always looked forward to you beautifully dismissive performance; a true work of comedy art. Go well.