Genre Research Activity

 What is a Comedy Genre? 

    Comedy genres are filled with humor, joy, and laughter. You typically see comedy in a play, film, books and tv. Comedy is a well loved genre as it makes the audience happy. The typical audience for comedy is young adults ages 15-24. Comedies usually take place in a 'typical environment like school and home. This allows for viewers to relate to characters while they embarrass themselves. People are easily drawn to comedies because they cheer one up. One can be upset in their own life but once they immerse themselves in a comedy they cheer up.

Topic:

    The use of word play is predominant in comedy. It is used to create witty dialogue which viewers love in a comedy. Puns are used throughout comedies. They are most common, they use words that sound the same but mean something different or homophones. For example, quail (the bird) and quail (to cringe.)  The protagonist in the comedy genre is important. They're displayed as an 'average man' so the audience can relate to them. There us also usually a conflict with themselves or the world to help crate the plot. 

Annie Hall is a perfect example of a comedy film that uses puns and witty humor. 

Narrative Image:

    Visual puns are used throughout comedy. There is a literal image presented of a common phrase or idea. For example my hands were so cold they felt like icicles. You would then see the characters hands frozen. Exaggeration is also commonly used. It increases features to add humor. For example; over the top facial expressions. Relatability is used throughout the comedy genre. Being relatable chimes into the viewers personally experiences making the humor approachable to a wide variety of people.

SpaceBalls is a great example of a film that uses visual puns and exaggeration to create a unique sense of humor.

 Marketing:

    The typical audience being young adults ages 15-24, advertising is geared toward them. This is the usual audience as the jokes being made during films are usually filled with more youth, which target young adults. Both men and women enjoy comedies as they are targeted to both of them. Everyone enjoys smiling which is the aim of comedy.    

    Comedy film posters usually involve bright, vibrant colors. This represents fun and creates a cheerful mood. They also help to grasp attention from viewers. The font is usually fun and different, not a normal font. It may be bold or quirky to represent comedy. There are cartoon-like element involved on the poster. The protagonist is often in a silly or over the top situation which is featured on the poster. This draws in viewers as they get a glimpse into the fun of the film. There is also visual smiles and laughing on comedy posters. The characters are seen having a good time which displays the light hearted mood throughout the film. 

Examples of Movie posters:

The Sandlot (1933)

Daddy Day Care (2003)

 

The Hangover (2009)

Samples:

White Chicks is a classic comedy film. Released in 2004 White Chicks is a fan favorite. The film follows 2 African American FBI agents who go under cover as two white teenage females to help solve a case. The two men have to transform from African American strong men to petite white spoiled teenage girls. They have to live a week in the Hamptons for a fashion event. The men have to live in the girls shoes and keep up with their lavish life style. The men have to go on dates. shop, and have sleepovers just like the two girls they're posing as would. It bring laughs to everyone who watches it as the men and dressed up as teenage girls and acting like them. This film is known for their use of make up to transform the men. There is large amount of prosthetics and make up used in White Chicks. The men were put into full-face silicone masks, wigs and intricate make up to play the role of the two teen girls. Special effect teams along with make up artists work tirelessly to transform the two men. Costume design was also crucial. The protagonist outfits were carefully curated to represent feminine features that were trendy and well accessorized. The sound track also plays a role in the comedic aspect. Using well known songs of that time add humor to the overall vibe of the movie.

 

Grown Ups is a prime example of a comedy movie. Featuring Adam Sandler, Kevin James and Chris Rock this film is ensured to be hilarious. Grown Ups follows a group of 5 boys who are childhood friends. They played together on a basketball team and reunite years later at a lake house to honor their basketball coach who had recently passed. They brought their entire families and joked around as if they were kids again. The film explores the men childish behaviors as they bond and reminisce on their times as kids. They're also faced with adult challenges along the way. It is light hearted, humorous and brings the viewer nostalgia. It keeps the viewers young at heart just as the main characters are. One of the main techniques that was used was casting. Choosing well-known actors that are known for comedy contributes to the appeal of the film. Costume design plays a huge role is portraying the characters personality. They also help individualized them and connect with the viewer. Grown ups tunes into the theme of nostalgia. The context of childhood friends reuniting adds to the depth of the characters as well as their interactions.