The script I've just finished writing for the BBC Northern Laughs scheme now has one f**k in it, and I might even change that to a shit. It originally had 3 f**ks but I took two out because I was embarrassed about Ian La Frenais reading all my dirty f**ks and thinking I'm a dirty f**king f**ker and telling me to f**k the f**k off.
Quote: Lee Henman @ August 12 2009, 12:07 PM BSTThe script I've just finished writing for the BBC Northern Laughs scheme now has one f**k in it, and I might even change that to a shit. It originally had 3 f**ks but I took two out because I was embarrassed about Ian La Frenais reading all my dirty f**ks and thinking I'm a dirty f**king f**ker and telling me to f**k the f**k off.
F**king name dropper!
Quote: Marc P @ August 12 2009, 12:12 PM BSTF**king name dropper!
F**k off!
Fair play.
I don't think I've ever written the word f**king in one of my scripts. It's never really needed it. When I write with a mate of mine, he sometimes wants to put the odd f**k in the script, but I always try and convince him that it's not necessary. I think if a script needs a f**k then put it in, but if it's just done for a cheap laugh then you're obviously not that talented as a writer.
Quote: Marc P @ August 12 2009, 12:15 PM BSTFair play.
Quote: Jacob Loves Comedy @ August 12 2009, 12:16 PM BSTbut if it's just done for a cheap laugh then you're obviously not that talented as a writer.
Nowt wrong with cheap laughs. I've learned to love them.
Quote: Lee Henman @ August 12 2009, 12:20 PM BST
Nowt wrong with cheap laughs. I've learned to love them.
Cheap for you - not for the poor f**kers who have to buy the cards!
Quote: Marc P @ August 12 2009, 12:21 PM BSTCheap for you - not for the poor f**kers who have to buy the cards!
F**king true. 
Just for the record, if its C4, I don't think there's any limit (witness Free Agents)... but you do have to justify each and every occurrence and get each approved. Here's an example form: http://tinyurl.com/m6qff9
ITV avoid the word where possible and don't like it being used.
BBC used to be more liberal but are tightening up hard now on BBC1 and BBC2, as you've no doubt read in the press (The Thick Of It is no doubt excused though as its on BBC Four first). The C Word may now only be used with express permission from the very top rung of BBC management so don't bother including that as it'll get cut.
As Aaron mentions, Two Pints only uses the word once a series, yet still manages to set the 'right' bawdy, adult atmosphere. I think its cleverer if you can create a comedy without it.
Quote: Mark @ August 12 2009, 12:37 PM BSTAs Aaron mentions, Two Pints only uses the word once a series, yet still manages to set the 'right' bawdy, adult atmosphere.
But what about swearing in comedy?
Quote: NoggetFred @ August 12 2009, 12:57 PM BSTBut what about swearing in comedy?
Quote: Mark @ August 12 2009, 12:37 PM BSTJust for the record, if its C4, I don't think there's any limit (witness Free Agents)... but you do have to justify each and every occurrence and get each approved. Here's an example form: http://tinyurl.com/m6qff9
ITV avoid the word where possible and don't like it being used.
BBC used to be more liberal but are tightening up hard now on BBC1 and BBC2, as you've no doubt read in the press (The Thick Of It is no doubt excused though as its on BBC Four first). The C Word may now only be used with express permission from the very top rung of BBC management so don't bother including that as it'll get cut.
As Aaron mentions, Two Pints only uses the word once a series, yet still manages to set the 'right' bawdy, adult atmosphere. I think its cleverer if you can create a comedy without it.
It's interesting that BBC Four is seen as a place for experimental comedy as the rules tighten on the the other channels.
Quote: Dolly Dagger @ August 12 2009, 11:48 AM BSTWolsey was a clever man - I think he would use pompous colourful language and alternatives to swearing. What about words and phrases from the time that sound a bit rude, but no longer in common usage?
This wins you a big kiss at the meet up!
Swive!
This is the word an educated tudor man would use, or so it says on ta internet.
Quote: bigfella @ August 12 2009, 3:30 PM BSTThis wins you a big kiss at the meet up!
Quote: Dolly Dagger @ August 12 2009, 3:36 PM BST
I knew you'd be pleased.