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Inspired by the fantastic opening scene of the new season of FX's Louie, we've decided to take a look at some of the most memorable season-opening moments from our favourite comedy shows. But first, for those of you who haven't seen it already, here is the opening 'garbage man' scene from Season 4 of Louie:

Two new episodes of Louie will be airing every Monday night at 10pm EDT for the next five weeks. You should really do yourself a favour and watch them.

 

10. Silicon Valley: Season 1 - "Kid Rock is the poorest person here."

Silicon Valley's opening gives us a quick glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the area, where people like Kid Rock are hired to provide background entertainment. Say what you will about Kid Rock, but it seems like he might actually have a sense of humour about himself.

 

9. Louie: Season 2 - "I like Momma's better because she makes good food, and I love her more..."

Next on the list is another opening scene from Louie - this time from Season 2. Kids can be mean. (Apologies for the poor video quality!)

 

8. Seinfeld: Season 5 - "I got the tap."

Season 5 of Seinfeld starts off strong with George consulting Jerry about his girl problems, only for Elaine to reveal that Jerry might have some problems of his own.

 

7. 30 Rock: Season 2 - "So for the month of October, all of our prime time shows will feature a computerised guest appearance from Mr. Jerry..." "Seinfeld."

Moving on from Seinfeld itself, the SeinfeldVision opening to Season 2 of 30 Rock is pretty great.

 

6. Parks and Recreation: Season 4 - "Godspeed."

Parks and Rec's fourth season begins with Ron Swanson at his finest.

 

5. It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia: Season 5 - "There is no such thing as bird law."

The guys behind 'Always Sunny' really know how to use their cold openings. The opening to Season 5 is most memorable for the gang's discussion about what Charlie calls 'bird law'. (Again, apologies for the quality...)

 

4. The Office (US): Season 6 - "Parkour!"

Although it is arguably one of the weakest seasons of The Office, Season 6 starts off with one of the show's most re-enacted moments. Hardcore parkour! Need I say more?

 

3. Arrested Development: Season 1 - "We Demand To Be Taken Seriously."

Arrested Development's first season manages to establish the style and tone of the show from the very beginning, giving us a taste of each character and a quick idea of the Bluth family dynamic. It also sets up several running jokes right from the get-go. Mitch Hurwitz - he's very good.

 

2. Curb Your Enthusiasm: Season 2 - "You don't know me!"

Curb's second season kicks off with our protagonist, Larry David, doing an impression of one of the guests on Maury, which makes this opening moment great for two reasons: Firstly, we could easily imagine Larry actually confronting someone this way. And secondly, it's just funny.

 

1. The Office (UK): Season 1 - "She has left him. I forgot about that."

Our favourite opening scene has to be the opening of Season 1 of The Office (UK). This scene serves as a perfect introduction to the character of David Brent, from his ridiculous managerial lingo to his self-deluded attempts to be more of a friend than a boss. The scene culminates with Brent ringing Sammmy, a worker in the warehouse, and asking "How is Elaine? She left you yet?", having forgotten that she actually has left him.