Sitcoms function as a hyperbolic reflection of the anxieties and trends that exist within popular culture at a particular moment. SItcoms are dynamic in that each episode has a resolution and can stand on its own yet allows for character development and conflicts that roll over from episode to episode. The use of hyperbole and absurdity work to gain over all appeal and to democratize the content. Hyperbole is a smart means of creating mass appeal because of the entertainment guarantee that it supplies. The outlandish nature of sitcoms serve to democratize them as opposed to more subtle methods of communication that would only appeal to highly educated audiences.
"Friends" hyperbolizes the conflicts and celebrations of "everyday life" for twenty-something urbanites. The show is framed around an intimate relationship between two of the Friends, Ross and Rachel. Perhaps every reason that normal couples break-up and get back together is employed with a hollywoodized twist. But of course, in the end, love trumps all and ten seasons later they get married. However, the permanent plot and the episodic plot are loosely intertwined. Each episode seems to have its own climax and resolutions where the humor, not the underlying storyline, is the ultimate appeal.
No comments:
Post a Comment