The Evolution of Comedy

Comedy is weighed primarily on humor. Its comicality is what makes it distinct from all the other genres. Its focus is on individual stars and usually has a happy ending. It has lighthearted stories and the purpose is just to make the viewers laugh. Comedy is one of the oldest in the industry. It has been evolving since then to cope up with the new trends and not to bore their audience.


1895-1930 is the era of silent movies. They began coming into sight in substantial numbers during these years. Because this kind of comedy has no verbal communication, it relies on slapstick and burlesque, which involves parody and at times grotesque exaggeration. Charlie Chaplin is one of the most popular actors in the line of silent movies. In France, Max Linder holds the title.


In 1920's, comedy in the form of animated cartoons became popular. The characters have been receiving "special cartoon treatment." To name a few, there are Felix the Cat, Betty Boop and Krazy Kat.


The introduction of sounds in movies started the use of verbal humor. This took place in towards the end of 1920's. At the start of 1930's slapstick comedians were replaced by dialogue film comedians like W.C Fields and the Marx Borthers. Despite these changes, Charlie Chaplin remained in his position and was still a favorite during that time. He also made some changes like putting sound effects but still has no dialogue.


Screwball comedy was next in line. It encompassed pleasing and idealized climate that certain values and positive beliefs about everyday life of people were showed. Although physical comedy was still there, it is no longer a necessity because verbal interaction was prioritized and appreciated by the audience. Short subject films were also part of the trend during those times. It is when the Three Stooges was at its peak.


When the World War II started, military themes were such a hit in the industry. Comedy was focused on civil defense, service, boot-camp and shore leave. Because there are restrictions in traveling during the war, Hollywood was in boom time. But in the 1950's, comedy was introduced in television. Family themed comedy became part of the industry because of this reason. Towards the end of 1950's, darker humor began to rise, which includes satire and social commentary.


In the 1960's, star-packed comedies were released. This is also when Peter Sellers tried his luck on international audience and had a favorable outcome.


1970's was when slapstick comedy came back through Mel Brooks. His films include Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles. But still, verbal use prevailed. This is the start of the career of Steve Martin and others notable comedians.

Gag-based comedy films and disaster-themed series were well known trends in the 1980's. During this time, American TV series were favored.


In the early 1990's, the family-themed movies cam back to the limelight. Sequels were even made out of its success. Romantic comedy films were admired.


Stoner comedies were such a knockout. The story usually involves the adventure of two guys. Gross out movies were also patronized by younger audience.


Comedy in television will always stay but it will continuously evolve to adapt to the traditional and pop culture, politics and even trends that represent the current era.