Big Mood, how does comedy work? Bach St John Passion
Mar 27, 2024
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Camilla Whitehill discusses her new sitcom Big Mood, Gareth Malone and Hannah French celebrate Bach's St John Passion. Joel Morris and Lissa Evans delve into the mechanics of comedy and what makes us laugh. Topics include millennials, Love Actually parties, emotional depth of Bach's music, and crafting humor in television and literature.
Sitcoms use clowning archetypes to create familiar comedic dynamics that resonate with audiences.
Female voices are on the rise in comedy, challenging norms and pushing boundaries in shows like Derry Girls.
Deep dives
Narrative Comedy in Sitcom Writing
Sitcom writers often introduce a cast of characters that embody specific clowning archetypes, such as the abused white face, the revolting Harold Steptoe figure, and the young, clueless idiot. These archetypes, like those seen in Father Ted, Only Fools and Horses, and Dad's Army, create a familiar and comedic dynamic that resonates with audiences. By using these archetypes effectively, writers can establish relatable and humorous interactions that keep viewers engaged and entertained.
Female Voices in Comedy
Modern sitcoms, including Derry Girls and Stath Lets Flats, showcase the rising prominence of female voices in comedy. Over the years, there has been a notable shift, allowing women to take the reins in the world of comedy writing and performing. Shows like Derry Girls push the boundaries by incorporating unique perspectives and fearless humor that challenge traditional norms, demonstrating the evolution of female representation in the comedy landscape.
Audience Reception: Mrs. Brown's Boys and Tribal Humor
The divisive reception of shows like Mrs. Brown's Boys exemplifies the tribal nature of comedy and audience preferences. While some viewers adore the show for its humor, others vehemently despise it. This polarization underscores how comedy is deeply personal and subjective, resonating differently with diverse audience tribes. Understanding that what evokes laughter in one group may not in another highlights the multifaceted and nuanced nature of comedy reception.
Societal Reflections in Classic Comedy
Classic comedies like Fawlty Towers serve as reflections of the societal norms and values prevalent during their time of creation. Despite elements that may be considered controversial or dated today, such shows offer valuable insights into the cultural attitudes and comedic styles of the past. They provide an opportunity to examine historical contexts and societal changes through the lens of humor, showcasing the evolving landscape of comedy and storytelling over time.