1970s sitcoms
Not exactly a standard entry but something I was thinking about while I hoovering yesterday. I hate hoovering and its far too dull to write about so it qualifies.
I actually really like 1970s sitcoms. Even as a kid I was fascinated by them, and still watch them on UK Gold (exactly the same episodes of course) to this day. What does this suggest? That every TV programme made between 1980 and the present day simply isn't good enough? That true TV comedy genius died with Leonard Rossiter? Or that they are very very cheap to show and that they will always guarantee the nostalgic viewer?
One thing that is certain is that you don't see sitcoms like that now. Ones that have tried to follow the formula (dinnerladies, The Thin Blue Line) are needless to say a total embarrassment. Why is this? I am honestly at a loss.
All I can do is offer my 10 Golden Rules of 1970s sitcoms:
1. Try to get one of the following on board: Rossiter, Barker, Bryers, O'Sullivan, Jason. This might be tricky these days. Try to look for modern alternatives.
2. 'Accidently' lose a few episodes. This will come in handy in about 25 years when you want to generate some more interest.
3. If an actor leaves/dies between series, never speak of them again.
4. Make an extra long episode, call it a film and guarantee repeats at Christmas for evermore. If you really want to you can even make a sequel (see 'Steptoe and Son Ride Again'. Though don't actually 'see' it obviously)
5. Forget political correctness. Political correctness has ruined comedy.
6. Catchphrases. Thread carefully. Include them, for as many regular characters as possible, but they are only any good if they are not annoying. If used properly they can carry an episode.
7. Running jokes (see catchphrases). For a model of success see the farting chair in The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin.
8. Have a setting and stick to it, no matter how improbable. And don't spend too much money on it. Cardboard walls will do nicely!
9. When going for characters, think extreme. A stupid character here, a fatty there, a regional stereotype or two can only add to your sitcom
10. A jolly theme tune, preferably with words. Everyone knows the theme to Dad's Army and Hi De Hi. Noone knows the theme to Babes in The Wood or Chalk. Or any of the jokes.
Happy sitcom making!
I actually really like 1970s sitcoms. Even as a kid I was fascinated by them, and still watch them on UK Gold (exactly the same episodes of course) to this day. What does this suggest? That every TV programme made between 1980 and the present day simply isn't good enough? That true TV comedy genius died with Leonard Rossiter? Or that they are very very cheap to show and that they will always guarantee the nostalgic viewer?
One thing that is certain is that you don't see sitcoms like that now. Ones that have tried to follow the formula (dinnerladies, The Thin Blue Line) are needless to say a total embarrassment. Why is this? I am honestly at a loss.
All I can do is offer my 10 Golden Rules of 1970s sitcoms:
1. Try to get one of the following on board: Rossiter, Barker, Bryers, O'Sullivan, Jason. This might be tricky these days. Try to look for modern alternatives.
2. 'Accidently' lose a few episodes. This will come in handy in about 25 years when you want to generate some more interest.
3. If an actor leaves/dies between series, never speak of them again.
4. Make an extra long episode, call it a film and guarantee repeats at Christmas for evermore. If you really want to you can even make a sequel (see 'Steptoe and Son Ride Again'. Though don't actually 'see' it obviously)
5. Forget political correctness. Political correctness has ruined comedy.
6. Catchphrases. Thread carefully. Include them, for as many regular characters as possible, but they are only any good if they are not annoying. If used properly they can carry an episode.
7. Running jokes (see catchphrases). For a model of success see the farting chair in The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin.
8. Have a setting and stick to it, no matter how improbable. And don't spend too much money on it. Cardboard walls will do nicely!
9. When going for characters, think extreme. A stupid character here, a fatty there, a regional stereotype or two can only add to your sitcom
10. A jolly theme tune, preferably with words. Everyone knows the theme to Dad's Army and Hi De Hi. Noone knows the theme to Babes in The Wood or Chalk. Or any of the jokes.
Happy sitcom making!
posted by ChiefMoaner at 12:36 PM
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