German 'Office' to big screen

German comedy outfit Brainpool is producing a feature film based on the cult TV series "Stromberg," the German adaptation of the BBC hit "The Office."

Writer and series co-creator Ralf Husmann will pen the script to the feature, which is planned as the finale to the sitcom's fourth season.

Christoph Maria Herbst, who brought a British-style irony to the role that made him famous in Germany, will star as the incompetent boss of a small-time insurance office.

"Stromberg" is in its third season on Pro7, meaning it's already run longer than its BBC predecessor, which aired from 2001-02. Last year, it scored multiple nominations at the German TV Awards, ultimately taking home the prizes for best sitcom and best screenplay.

The series has even spawned a spinoff, "Beruhmt" (Famous), which follows the misadventures of office brown-noser Ernie. That series, which Husmann also is writing, will debut next year on Pro7. (partialdiff)