The creator of the world's most popular sitcom franchise, The Office, should be beyond the reach of critics anywhere. But, Ricky Gervais is preemptively telling reviewers to lay off his new movie, The Invention of Lying.

The comedy Gervais co-wrote and directed with Matthew Robinson explores a world where no one has ever lied until a writer seizes the opportunity for personal gain.

Gervais doesn't want critics to expect too much. On his blog, he wrote, "Dear critics (everyone), when judging the film, please remember that it is a high concept, PG-13 romantic comedy. It's not Schindler's List or The Godfather."

While many filmmakers try to ignore and rise above the wailing of critics, Gervais took the unusual step of trying to ingratiate himself to them before his movie premiered. It's a step akin to barring press from preview screenings -- raising a red flag that there are serious problems with the film.

This reporter is left asking why Gervais is worried about what anyone thinks about any of his creations. From The Office spreading throughout multiple countries to his record setting podcasts with Karl Pilkington to his HBO stand-up specials, everything the guys touches turns to gold. His movies will find their audience no matter what the pundits say.