When Michael becomes irrational, he can look like the most awful person in the world with his selfishness and mean behavior. His attitude regarding Holly, especially in the Christmas episode, was particularly bad. But in "Ultimatum," though, we see a Michael who is still reaching for Holly but realizes his own faults.
Yes, he was wrong to force vegetables down Kevin's throat or yell at Creed, but he realizes that he was wrong and immediately apologizes, and even goes further by helping Creed with his cartwheels. Michael's heartfelt line about never wanting to make Holly cry really struck me. Michael wants to be with Holly, but knows that he shouldn't push the issue, which makes Holly's break up (or simply a break) even better for future episodes.
Meanwhile, Pam creates a New Year's resolution board and it just spirals downward. Nothing much happens, but we get to see most characters' resolutions and other's responses. Most disappointing about the subplot was that Jim was nowhere to make snide comments and I don't remember Pam making an explanation.
While the office is bustling with activity, Darryl, Andy, and Dwight hang out for what seems to be several hours. They don't accomplish anything whatsoever, first going to a bookstore and then to a roller rink. I guess Dwight met a loose woman and Darryl got an ereader, meeting their New Year's resolutions, but the whole plot was a bunch of nothingness.
Score: 9.0/10
