You know, I thought so originally, because I am a HUGE fan of the British version. I was appalled by the fact that the American version of the Pilot essentially was ripping off the British version (well, not "ripping off" per say, as Ricky Gervais had a little help in it), and I thought that it was abysmal. The characters were carbon copies for their British counterparts.

That being SAID... Season one is on and off... The Pilot isn't very good (because it's trying to copy the British version), but there are a few episodes that are absolutely amazing.

Starting with Season 2 and the show just gets fantastic.

I understand the hatred; I was there, too. But, honestly, once the show grew on its own and went in an entirely new direction than the British version (let their characters develop on their own), it go so much better. The boss Michael Scott is more of a socially incompetent tool than David Brent, his British Other, who is a general twat. The American versions become their own characters, modeled after, but different than that of the British. I think that Steve Carrell is brilliant in the role.

I'm not saying that it's better than the British version, no.

But it's definitely enjoyable. I say give it another try (I'm trying to sell my coworker on the same idea; just lent him Seasons 1 and 2 over Christmas holiday to watch). It's definitely worth it.