Visual Comedy Lecture Notes

Introduction to Visual Comedy

• Visual comedy is often overlooked as belonging to the past or silent films.
• Yet, it is prevalent in modern media, especially in TV commercials and popular comedies.

Physical Comedians

• Kevin Bartholomew: A young actor known for his one-man show "Ha Ha, Kevin" since 1976.
• Emphasizes the body as the essential means of expression for comedians.
  • The body can be a tool for humor regardless of its type (short, tall, etc.).
  • Comedy potential exists in every part of the physique (legs, face, etc.).

Importance of Clothing

• Clothing plays a significant role in creating character; ill-fitting attire can enhance comedic effect.

Three Principles of Visual Comedy

1. Unexpected Behavior: An object (or person) acts in a surprising way.
2. Unexpected Placement: An object is found in an unusual location.
3. Unexpected Size: An object is either too big or too small for its context.

• Example with Kevin: He can appear funny by behaving like an animal or being in an unexpected place.

Animation and Visual Comedy

• Animation exemplifies these principles by allowing exaggerated behaviors and transformations.
• Examples include cats of unusual sizes and unexpected events, like buses doing somersaults.

Slapstick Comedy

• Slapstick is a historic and beloved form of physical comedy characterized by comedic violence and accidents.
• Max Sennett: Early American comedy films featured slapstick and the Keystone Cops, emphasizing chaotic and anarchic humor.

Modern Slapstick

• The effectiveness of slapstick relies on believability and authenticity; heightened reactions can enhance comedic effect.
• Use of sound effects and props (like vegetables) contributes to humorous violence.

Elements of Magic in Comedy

• Comedians often use tricks similar to magicians: sudden appearances, disappearances, and transformations.
• Georges Méliès: An early filmmaker known for using camera tricks to create surreal comedy.

Thematic Elements of Comedy

• Comedy often deals with fear, as seen in haunted house themes and films like "Ghostbusters".
• Comedians often strip characters of dignity, leading to humor through absurdity.

Imitation and Parody

• Imitation of others can be comedic, leading to parody and satire, especially when mocking authority figures.
• Modern comedy often relies on parodies of popular films and shows for inspiration.

Importance of Character in Comedy

• A strong character is essential for comedic success.
• Kevin's mime skills allow him to create humor through body language.
  • The comedy of personality focuses on executing normal actions in funny ways.

Jacques Tati's Contributions

• Tati was a silent era comedian who observed and portrayed humor in everyday behavior, relying on body language.

Comic Attitudes

• Different comic attitudes can influence how humor is perceived:
  1. Dim Attitude: Comedy through ignorance or naivety.
  2. Aggressive Attitude: Comedic disregard for others' feelings.
  3. Crude Attitude: Humor based on social embarrassment.

Physical Comedian Characteristics

• Physical comedians often act as aliens, different yet relatable to the audience.
• They frequently battle with everyday objects, resulting in humor through mishaps and accidents.

Relationships and the Physical Comedian

• Comedians often struggle in social situations, leading to comedic misunderstandings or embarrassments.
• Common approaches to comedy in romantic situations:
  • Romantic Approach: Awkwardness and failure.
  • Direct Approach: Ignoring social norms.
  • Startled Virgin: Innocence amidst sexual advances.

Conclusion

• The physical comedian embodies the role of the eternal outlaw, breaking societal norms in humorous ways.
• Despite constant challenges, the physical comedian survives and thrives in the realm of comedy.
• The essence of comedy lies in the relatability and execution of the humor.