In "Not Dead Yet" Season 2, Episode 4, titled "Not Polite Yet," the show delves into the intricacies of workplace relationships and the challenges of finding common ground with colleagues. This episode is a testament to the show's ability to blend humor with the realities of office life, providing a refreshing take on the complexities of professional interactions.
The episode begins with the news that Mr. Rhodes is traveling to the Netherlands for a business retreat aimed at understanding the best working conditions for company efficiency. Sam's immediate reaction is to envision the Skarsgards everywhere, highlighting her girlish enthusiasm and providing a light-hearted moment. Dennis's witty reply, "That would be Sweden, but, same," showcases the camaraderie between the characters and sets the tone for the episode.
Nell is tasked with writing an obituary for Mary Sue, a woman who was deeply passionate about etiquette and had a show about it for years. Mary's influence on Nell is immediate, prompting her to improve her manners. Meanwhile, Lexi, in her quest to impress her father, decides to merge the two floors of the office to increase working efficiency, following a Dutch productivity method she discussed with her father's hologram.
The office reorganization leads to colleagues sharing tiny cubicles, creating a new dynamic among the staff. Nell, influenced by Mary and the presence of the charming TJ, cleans up her desk to make him feel at home. However, TJ's cold shoulder towards Nell is uncharacteristic and puzzling. On the other hand, Dennis and Sam's friendship is tested as they share an office, highlighting the potential challenges of proximity in close relationships.
Nell, the quintessential people-pleaser, tries everything to win TJ over, from getting him a plant to making jokes. When her efforts fail, she confronts TJ about the issue. TJ challenges Nell to remember a specific day, November 2nd, 2016, which Nell cannot recall. After searching through her old phones, Nell discovers a photo from that day, revealing that she had asked for TJ's number after a night of partying with Dennis and Sam. The real reason for TJ's grudge is not Nell's failure to call him back but her changing the channel during a crucial Cubs game, causing him to miss a historic moment.
Dennis and Sam's shared office space becomes a source of conflict, as their close friendship is strained by the proximity. However, a conversation with Nell reminds Sam of Dennis's loyalty and love for her, symbolized by his willingness to take a flying chicken wing for her Chanel shirt. The lesson from Mary for the day is not to change oneself for the satisfaction of others, a message that resonates with Nell as she maintains her unique personality.
In a surprising turn of events, TJ recreates the day in question for Nell in a conference room filled with Cubs decor, attempting to make up for his grudge. He acknowledges his own misgivings and the impact of Nell's actions on his mood. Nell's understanding and forgiveness lead to a resolution between them, while Lexi, overhearing Nell's criticism of the new office conditions, decides to revert the changes.
"Not Polite Yet" is an episode that explores the nuances of workplace relationships and the importance of communication. It reminds us that our actions can have unintended consequences on others and that open dialogue can lead to positive change. The episode ends with Nell and Edward attempting to upload her numerous selfies to the cloud, a fitting conclusion to an episode filled with personal growth and office politics. This installment of "Not Dead Yet" is a delightful exploration of the workplace environment, offering a mix of humor, empathy, and the human element that makes the show so engaging.