Si Que What? vs. C.K. Watt

Look at this classic sequence featuring Mrs. Richards and Manuel from 'Communication Problems'. An excellent example of the 'comedy of misunderstanding', use of stereotypes, exaggerated facial expressions and brilliant rapid editing that enhances the comedy even further.

The final scene from 'Communication Problems'

How many sitcom conventions can you spot? What audience pleasures are evident?

Use this scene to conduct a close textual analysis looking for as many conventions of sitcom as possible. Use headings such as:

Camerawork (shot type, angle, movement)
Sound (dialogue, sound effects, music)
Editing (continuity editing, pace, transitions)
Mise-en-scene (props, costumes, sets, locations)
Lighting (high-key, naturalistic)
Characters (stereotypes, facial expressions and body language)

Use as much correct media terminology as possible.

Finish by applying as many audience pleasures as you can to this scene using specific examples to justify your choices.

Welcome...

...to the Thurston Community College GCSE Media Studies Sitcom blog!

Here you will find useful links and info relating to your Textual Analysis - Moving Image paper which you will be sitting on Tuesday 12th June at 1.00pm.

Some basics about the paper:

The exam is 1 hour and 45 minutes long and is worth 60 marks.

45 minutes for viewing and notemaking, 1 hour to answer the questions.

You will see an unseen extract from a sitcom. This will be played 4 times with 5 minutes between each screening to make notes.

There are 4 main questions.

Questions 1-3 are based on the extract.

Question 4 (divided into a and b) is based on the sitcoms we have studied in class.