Comedy Research
Comedy is a genre in film many people watch purely for entertainment purposes. Although comedic films seem like a great choice for families to watch together, there are some films that may have comedy made specifically for adults. It depends on the production’s target audience, which varies from each comedic film. In the end, these films do not require much thinking, and usually ensure a person will laugh and have a good time.
Comedy conventions: content
Main characters are usually comedians or considered to be extremely amusing. This could be through the character’s facial expressions or their lines, and by being extremely exaggerative with what they are doing. The writing must be funny, as writers and directors must know what is and what is not funny for the target audience. The overall goal for comedic films is to make sure viewers are laughing when they are intended to.
Depending on which type of comedy film it is, the target audience ranges between teenagers and adults. Regardless, these films will end in a positive way, so it does not contradict the production as a whole.
Comedy conventions: production techniques
Sound and editing contain major techniques in comedy productions. During the film, production teams incorporate a use of sound effects. Very upbeat and happy music is also heard to further create an entertaining and comical feel.
Additionally, the editing must flow with what is being presented. With quick cuts and many zoom-ins, comedy films are able to make the audience laugh.
Institutional conventions: how comedy is marketed
As I mentioned earlier, comedy films differ on their target audience. Many films include light-hearted jokes which would go under the family-friendly sub-genre. On the contrary, many other films include jokes that would not be appropriate for younger viewers, making the film be Rated PG-13, Mature, or Rated R. Though, the average ages these films are targeting are between the ages of 13-21.
In order for comedy movies to be marketed, trailers are used. Trailers bring attention to the film, using funny clips and showing the actors. There are multiple well known actors that are fan-favorites, so seeing them in trailers will definitely make film viewers want to watch.
Scary Movie is a unique type of comedy film. It is satire, since it criticizes and mocks average horror films. While the film does include horror aspects, the entirety of it is mainly for comedic purposes.
The film is about a group of dumb teenagers that get stalked and killed by a serial killer a year after they had accidentally killed a man and disposed his body. The production makes no sense in certain parts, and the group is referred to as “dumb” because of their lack of common sense. This makes viewers laugh and not take the film too seriously.
Elf
Elf is a family-friendly comedy. The main character, Buddy, is extremely childish, yet is an adult. Buddy’s personality and subtle jokes make the film enjoyable to all. The jokes relate to the context of the film and allow it to remain funny even years after being released. The reason as to why I mention this is because many comedy films rely on jokes that are referenced in current pop culture. This makes Elf a great example of a true comedy film.
Comedy Films
Free Guy (2021)
Mall Cop (2009)
Grown Ups (2010)
White Chicks (2004)
Step Brothers (2008)
