Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve probably heard the buzz about the box office sensation, Ted.
It’s the story of John, who makes a childhood wish for his teddy bear to come to life. The wish is magically granted and his bear, Ted, becomes John’s constant companion. Hysteria ensues when John’s cuddly little playmate grows up to be his foul-mouthed, bong smoking, womanizing, best buddy.
Written and directed by Seth McFarlane of Family Guy fame, it is no surprise that Ted, his first feature film, is loaded with pop culture references and superficial shenanigans.
However, in between the tasteless jokes and offensive stereotypes, Ted manages to cast a sharp eye on the outrageous ironies that play out in business every day.
CRAZY OFFICE IRONY #1:
After complaining incessantly about sexual harassment, Lori decides to date her lecherous boss.
John’s girlfriend, Lori, works for a vile PR mogul, Rex, who surrounds himself with stunning office workers. In addition to constantly hitting on his employees, he tries to meddle in the personal life to further his own selfish interests. Not only is Rex ‘s bad behavior tolerated, ultimately Lori gives in to his constant badgering and decides to go on a date with Rex.
CRAZY OFFICE IRONY #2:
Combative, irresponsible, talking bear is enthusiastically hired for customer facing role.
Amazed at Ted’s ability to tick off every item on the “Interview DON’T List”, the owner of a local supermarket enthusiastically hires the boorish bear to work the check out line of his store. (This is truly one of the most shocking and offensive interview Q and As, ever!)
CRAZY OFFICE IRONY #3:
John, a poor performer, is rewarded with the promise of a management role.
Too stoned to handle his morning commute, John must rely on Ted to chauffeur him to the car rental office where he works. Ted proceeds to crash into the parked rental car on the lot while John’s boss watches from the window. Instead of being fired on the spot, John is simply given a small slap on the wrist and a pep talk with the promise of an imminent career opportunity.
Although the audience was howling with laughter, I had to cringe! I am certain that these outrageous scenes must have been based on true stories! After all, doesn’t art imitate life?
Did you see Ted ? Did you relate to the hysterically ironic office scenarios? Leave your comments below. And remember, for inspiration, ideas, entertainment and some fun, come back to BlogWorx often. (Or better yet, get BlogWorx by email. Submit your email above and don’t miss a word!)
So funny, I caught on to these situations while watching the movie, too. (Must stop wearing my HR hat on the weekends.) In my 13 year career, I’ve seen many of the poorest performers promoted — always amazed at how far charm and social skills can get a person in the corporate world. It’s a sad and shallow commentary on the biz world and McFarlane nailed it.
Great post! -Linc
Gail,
So well said…after the movie, we were rehashing the interview scene and each meeting Ted had with his manager. These were totally classic and scary that they are probably based on true situations!
Thanks for writing!
Jill
“64% of employers in a recent Careerbuilder survey said that they’d think less of an employee who repeatedly uses curse words, and 57% said they’d be less likely to promote someone who swears in the office.” But what about the other 36% of employers? Perhaps they are aligned with the supermarket manager. (BTW, there are several YouTube posts of the infamous “Ted Interview Scene” — rated R!!!)