Unit information: Film and TV Comedy in 2020/21

Unit name	Film and TV Comedy
Unit code	FATV20005
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Alex Clayton
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Film and Television
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit aims to deepen an appreciation of film and television comedy. Through analysis of a range of comedic forms, alongside consideration of theories of laughter and humour, students will acquire an understanding of the workings of comedy and issues which might explain its appeal. The unit includes a practical video assignment designed to help students reflect on the creative challenges and possibilities of comic expression.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

(1) demonstrate detailed knowledge of comedic forms and conventions;

(2) show an understanding of aesthetic and social issues pertaining to the production and reception of comedy;

(3) analyse and evaluate competing theories of humour and laughter;

(4) reflect on the creative challenges and possibilities of screen comedy and appraise individual works in light of these factors.

(5) demonstrate practical skills in one or more aspects of short filmmaking.

Teaching Information

Weekly seminar/workshop and screening, supported by self-directed tasks where appropriate.

Assessment Information

100% Portfolio, equivalent to 4000 words

Reading and References

• Bergson, H. [1900], "Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic" in Wylie Sypher (1956), Comedy (New York: Double Day Anchor Books)

• Freud, S. ([1905] 2002) The Joke and Its Relation to the Unconscious (Penguin Books)

• Kerr, W. (1980), The Silent Clowns (Da Capo Press)

• McGraw, A.P. and Warren, C. (2010), "Benign Violations: Making Immoral Behaviour Funny", Psychological Science XX(X), pp. 1-9

• Morreall, J (1987), The Philosophy of Laughter and Humour (State University of New York Press)

• Palmer, J. (1994), Taking Humour Seriously (Routledge)