Running gags

Definition

Running gags are comedic devices that involve a joke, phrase, or situation that is repeatedly used throughout a series to elicit laughter from the audience. These gags create a sense of familiarity and anticipation, allowing viewers to connect with the characters and their experiences while enhancing the overall comedic tone.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Running gags often rely on consistent character traits or catchphrases that are recognizable to the audience, reinforcing their connection to the show.
2. The effectiveness of running gags can be enhanced through variations in their presentation, keeping the humor fresh while still familiar.
3. Shows like 'Friends' and 'The Office' have successfully utilized running gags to build character relationships and create memorable moments.
4. Running gags can evolve over time, sometimes becoming more elaborate or changing in context as the series progresses.
5. The anticipation built by running gags allows for a deeper engagement with the audience, making them feel part of an inside joke.

Review Questions

• How do running gags enhance audience engagement in television comedies?
  • Running gags enhance audience engagement by creating familiarity and building anticipation around recurring jokes or situations. When viewers recognize these patterns, it allows them to feel connected to the characters and their experiences. This ongoing comedic element invites audiences to look forward to new episodes, fostering loyalty and investment in the series.
• Discuss how running gags contribute to character development and dynamics within ensemble casts.
  • Running gags contribute significantly to character development and dynamics by highlighting specific traits or relationships among ensemble cast members. For instance, if a character has a quirky habit that becomes a running gag, it not only provides humor but also reveals deeper insights into their personality. This ongoing joke can serve as a tool for character growth, showcasing how they respond to situations over time and affecting their interactions with other characters.
• Evaluate the role of running gags in balancing humor and commentary within TV comedies, especially in addressing serious themes.
  • Running gags play a critical role in balancing humor and commentary in TV comedies by using repeated humor to address serious themes without overwhelming the audience. For example, a show might use a running gag to highlight societal issues or character flaws, making them more accessible through humor. This strategy enables writers to critique or comment on topics like relationships or workplace dynamics while keeping the tone light-hearted and engaging, ultimately creating a multi-layered viewing experience.

Related terms

callback:

A callback is a joke that refers back to an earlier joke or situation, often used to create a layered comedic effect.

character-driven humor: Humor that arises from the unique personalities, quirks, and relationships of characters, often making running gags more effective.

situational comedy: A genre of comedy that relies on a fixed set of characters in a specific environment, where running gags can thrive due to recurring circumstances.