ABSTRACT
COMEDY Comedy is a very popular form of dialogue copy. It is not the words on the page that make a script funny; it is the intent behind the words. In part, comedy is based on the unexpected-leading the audience in one direction and then suddenly changing direction and ending up someplace else. Comedy is often based on overstating the obvious or placing a totally serious character in a ludicrous situation. Comedy can also be achieved by creating a sense of discomfort in the mind of the audience. Think of a comedy script as a slice of life-with a twist. Playing lines for laughs doesn’t work. Laughs come only when the audience is surprised. Rhythm and timing are essential with dialogue. A natural interaction between characters, overlapping lines, or stepping on lines, gives a more real feeling and helps set the rhythm and pace of the story. Pauses (where appropriate), and natural vocal embellishments can add naturalness. Ask the producer or director before taking too many liberties with any copy; this is especially true with comedy dialogue. If the producer understands comedy, you may be given the freedom to experiment with your character and how you deliver your lines. Ultimately, your character should have precedence over the copy and certain ad-libs or other adaptations may be necessary to create the illusion of reality. Say your lines in a natural, conversational way, appropriate to the situation, and the comedy will happen. To be effective, comedy dialogue must have a sense of reality, even if the situation is ludicrous and the characters are exaggerated. The following tips and suggestions will help you perform comedy copy effectively.
