Sitcoms
Media Studies: Eduqas GCSE, topic 4.2.1
Generic Conventions of Sitcoms
Sitcoms include key generic conventions.
Characters
- All sitcoms include elements of comedy.
- The characters within the series are reoccurring.
- The characters are set in a shared environment such as a workplace, home, school etc.
Continuation
- Episodes can include standalone or continuous narratives.
- Standalone narratives are concluded at the end of each episode.
- Continuous narratives mean some jokes and information will be carried over to the next episode.
Laughter
- The audience’s laughter can be heard in the episode.
- Some sitcoms are filmed in front of a live audience, others will use canned laughter.
Filming
- Conventional sitcoms are filmed using a three-camera set up and are filmed on a set.
- Most sitcoms are 23-24 minutes long to allow time for advertising breaks.
UK vs. US Sitcoms
There are key differences between US and UK sitcoms.
Series vs. season
- The UK calls the episodes released together a series, whereas the US calls it a season.
Length
- The length of series/season.
- UK sitcoms normally have 6 episodes per series, whereas US sitcoms usually have 24 episodes per season.
Writers
- UK sitcoms have one or two writers only.
- US sitcoms have a team of writers.
Budget
- UK sitcoms have relatively low budgets.
- US sitcoms have high budgets.
Filming
- UK sitcoms are often filmed on location with single camera technology.
- US sitcoms are often filmed with live audiences watching the recording using multi-camera technology.
Production process
- UK production process is straightforward.
- US production process requires:
- Ideas being pitched.
- The show being green lighted and picked up by a network.
- Then a range of checks before the show is actually broadcast.