Sitcom formula

Of course it's a criticism to describe something as formulaic, but if we can get past that, then what are the classic sitcom 'formulas' ?

3 parts comedy 1 part drama.

Yes and there's a complex one formulated by two Oxford grads not that long ago - I have it written down somewhere. I can only remember bits right now but it says you need a conceited overbearing main character - the sitcom monster - subordinates of his/hers, one of which must have a character which the viewers are sympathetic to; adversaries or rivals of main character - this is where bulk of comic exchanges in dialogue are centred; you must have plots which are driven by the main character striving for their goals and most importantly you need to see the pompous main character regularly look like an idiot and fail in their ambitious plans - that's where the comic payoff is.

It sounds cartoony next to the looser type of sitcoms we get today, but you see it working really well in classic sitoms like Fawlty Towers, OFAH, Dad's Army and the like. OFAH was apparently the perfect sitcom model according to their formula. I tend to favour this formula as well, the structure is a very good one to follow, you can still tone down the cartoony elements of the main character if you want. What it gives you is a great comedy dynamic between your characters, because there is always that rivalry there. At least one very well known sitcom writer today seems to ignore this element and it shows imo. Morning.

Good post, Mr Kipper. You too, Benkins!

Fx

Great post Alfred. The 'central character' thing is often true, but what about all the sitcoms which don't have an obvious main character, like Friends, Are You Being Served or Drop the Dead Donkey?

The research Kipper is referring to may be this:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2005/jun/06/broadcasting.research

Quote: chipolata @ July 17 2010, 11:11 AM BST

The research Kipper is referring to may be this:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2005/jun/06/broadcasting.research

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"Their formula for a winning sitcom multiplies the recognisable qualities of the main character (r) by their delusions of grandeur (d), and adds that to the verbal wit of the script (v).

This total is then multiplied by the amount someone falls over (f),.../"

That was it, ta for link. Obviously I've added other bits to my own version. I didn't see Orrible but saw a bit of Babes In The Wood - it did seem like there was very little main goal or aim to it, if I remember rightly.