"To get the right feel, The Office tries to keep the set hermetically sealed, limiting the presence of crewmembers to create a more office-like feel. Actors do makeup touchups at their desks to limit the time of makeup artists, and they can use their desk phones and computers, which have Web access.
Carell says the scripts and dialogue are grounded in character and reality. Some of the best moments come from looks or awkward pauses.
The Second City veteran says he's grateful for the improvisational opportunities.
'It's a great thing to know that's available to you, to go off the page,' he says. 'There's a looseness to try things. There's a freedom to fail.'"
