This document discusses various aspects of comedy films. It begins by listing different genres related to comedy, such as physical comedy, slapstick, and black comedy. It then outlines some typical expectations for comedy film openings, such as establishing shots to relax the audience and the catalyst for the plot arriving before the title. The document also lists several popular and well-received comedy films from the late 2000s and 2010s. It provides a brief overview of the reviews for the 1991 Addams Family film and its sequel. Finally, it discusses some common codes, conventions, and props used in comedy films to set a dark, supernatural atmosphere despite the comedic nature.

2. WHAT GENRES LINK TO
COMEDY
 Physical
 Slapstick
 Spoof
 Character comedy
 Cringe comedy
 Black Comedy

3. WHAT DO WE EXPECT
FROM A COMEDY OPENING
 Usually we expect establishing shots, the audience needs to feel
relaxed to enjoy the comedic aspects of the film.
 The film will often start of with a normal setting little drama really.
The film often starts off in the morning or just before an event ie; a
party/wedding.
 The catalyst for the plot will arrive just before the title of the play.

4. GREAT COMEDY FILMS
 The Hangover(2009)
 Death at a Funeral(2007)
 Step Brothers(2008)
 The Hangover(2009)
 Superbad(2007)
 Project X(2012)
 American Reunion(2012)
 That's My Boy(2012)
 Zack and Miri Make a Porno(2008)
 Knocked Up(2007)

5. THREE FILM OPENINGS
Women in black
The films consists of dark colours, the blacks, greys and dusty creams give an eerie effect to three girls
playing with dolls. Music seems to be a large effect to the atmosphere, the non-diegetic music of a sort
of music box makes the theme intense.
Camera work focuses on close ups on the children’s toys and hand we do not see their faces till later
on.

6. STIMULUS

7. REVIEWS
 The Addams Family is a 1991 American comedy film based on the
characters from the cartoon of the same name created by cartoonist
Charles Addams.
 It opened internationally on November 22, 1991, on the same day
as An American Tail: Fievel Goes West and Beauty and the Beast and
received positive reviews. It was followed by a sequel, Addams Family
Values, in 1993.

8. REVIEWS FOR THE FILM
FRANCHISE
 Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a 78% based on 46 reviews.[3][4]
The site's consensus reads, "New, well-developed characters add
dimension to this batty satire, creating a comedy much more
substantial than the original. This was an 18% rise from the original
film (released in 1991.)

9. CODES AND CONVENTIONS
 Dark and gloomy colours present a super-natural atmosphere.
Though the characters are not vampire or were-wolves, or have
powers there is something not quite right.
 The mid shots allow the audience to feel comfortable and relaxed
to take in the comedy aspects. Though there are all close up towards
the character “Hand” to show the size of him. Reaction shots are also
involving comedy.

10. PROPS
 Cob-webs
 Brains/other organs on food
 Chocolate fingers (literally)
 Black/gothic clothing
 Fabric
 Chalk and dust