At the start of every episode of The Office is a cold open. They’re usually quick witted and add no contribution to the episode’s plot, but somehow, everyone (myself included) loves these short sketches. With that being said, I’ve taken it upon myself to manually rank my favorite cold opens.

 

Parkour

Season 6, Episode 1, “Gossip”

Dwight, Andy, and Michael are trying to keep up with Internet trends. Seeing them attempt to flip and maneuver around the office is seriously hilarious how much they consistently overestimate their athletic abilities.

 

George Foreman

Season 2, Episode 12, “The Injury”

This cold open is so elaborate and random yet completely makes sense because only THE Michael Scott would have a morning routine that puts his feet at harm. This sketch also portrays more of Michael’s backward logic that viewers know and love.

 

Altoids

Season 3, Episode 15, “Phyllis’s Wedding”

Classical conditioning at its finest. Dwight’s reaction when he realizes that he’s been conditioned by Jim is also priceless.

 

Stress Relief

The chaos as Dwight puts the entire staff in harm’s way is hilarious. No one knows what to do, Angela throws her cat through the ceiling, Stanley passes out, just a usual 30 seconds into an episode.

Season 5, Episode 14, “Stress Relief: Part 1”

 

No Longer Assistant To The Regional Manager

This cold open is iconic because viewers have all been waiting for this moment, Dwight as manager. His reaction is priceless and that episode is hilarious and totally embodies Dwight Schrute.

Season 7, “Dwight K. Schrute, (Acting) Manager”