• This week introduces the concept of the comic frame and comedy mechanisms in plot writing, which share similar patterns with previous weeks’ concepts. At first, the comic frame is the interpretation of comedy sense in a suitable context. Simply put, each individual represents solitary symbolic visions (Attardo 2014). Therefore, we will view meanings, and experiences differently. Coincidentally, it overlaps the concept of understanding humor: Different individuals view meanings differently. This is why comic events in comedy forms might not work for all types of audiences. Expandedly, these theories also link to the concept of benign violation. Benign violation speculates that any contradiction to normal norms (violations) if not provoke an actual threat (benign), will trigger humor (Warren and McGraw 2015). By placing perspectives by incongruity, comedy tends to spark comic frames and maybe, an opportunity for a new perspective. In the studio, we watched one Spaced episode, which might be a good example of benign violation. The episode of Kevin Can F Himself was a good example. For example, there is the scene where Allison discusses with Kevin her wish to move to a better house and Kevin dismisses by saying their current house is still in good condition. The violation, both in Kevin’s obliviousness and contradictory to Allison’s mindfulness, is the comic frame.
• This week, I take the idea of a fictional workspace and elevate it to a small chat between two co-workers during a water break. I use the writing technique of creating a comic character in a story sketch: Thinking of a character with exaggerated traits and opposite desires (Toplyn 2014). Therefore, it will be a character who is bluffing about his work achievements while other seems not to care much about it. I will raise the stakes to the last end of the sketch when the uninterested man asks what the hoax one is doing for this job. The focus will be on the dialogue: it has to be consistent in the story, reflecting characters’ traits and as funny as possible
• I received feedback from last week that it would be better if I could extend certain scenes for longer. For example, I made a poker sketch and in some scenes, showcased the poker cards. Inexperienced viewers might not have enough time to deconstruct the scenes. Next time, I will be mindful and considerate of viewers’ perspectives when I do editing for the screen.

Reference:

Attardo S (2014) ‘Comic Frame’, Encyclopedia of Humor Studies, accessed 24 March 2024.

Audissino E (2023) ‘From Dionysia to Hollywood: An Introduction to Comedy’s Long (and Bumpy) Road’, Springer International Publishing AG, accessed 24 March 2024.

Toplyn J (2014) ‘Comedy writing for late-night tv : how to write monologue jokes, desk pieces, sketches, parodies, audience pieces, remotes, and other short-form comedy’, Twenty Lane Media, LLC, accessed 24 March 2024.

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