The Hidden Tools of Comedy

Comedy gives you the permission to win.

Drama helps us dream about what we could be, but comedy helps us live with who we are.

in a comedy, everyone is a Non-Hero.

The seven sentences are meant to represent different kinds or genres of comedy.

jokes in narratives is that they need to accomplish four things:
1. Further the Action
2. Define Character
3. Deliver A Unique View of the World
4. Be Compressed

Other characters’ needs are as strong as the main character’s.

Characters determine Events and Structure; Events and Structure should not dictate to Character.

Characters are brought on through NEED and THEME.
• Premise is the engine; Theme is the rudder.

All action flows honestly and organically from the premise, based on character.

Once the premise is established, YOU CANNOT TELL ANOTHER LIE.