Triggered yet? Just kidding (at least I hope you're not because if you are you had better book an appointment with a shrink, pronto!). Anywho, a couple of days ago I sent my comedy script out for coverage. It's an animated adult comedy though it is very adolescent, over-the-top, and possibly (probably) offensive to some. I will be producing this show myself so the coverage is to aid me in improving the script. I really have no idea how it's going to land with a reader and I'm both excited and filled with dread. I'm sure I'm not alone in my not-so-secret desire for people to confirm my delusions of creative genius, but I'm also self-reflective enough (don't you dare say woke) to know the current limits of my ability, and to be aware that I have blind spots (but being said spots, I don't know what they are). It is impossible to put one's self in every other persons shoes (especially Imelda Marcos) so I can only write what feels true and honest to the story and characters, and if those characters are utter bastards, then so be it. Shows like South Park, Ren and Stimpy, and Rick and Morty act like a beacon of hope in a sea of no-nos and remind me that nothing should be off limits. Forget the "after 25 years it's OK" rule and write in the moment. Signing off, carefree and conflicted.
Screenwriting : Writing with abandon in the age of cancel culture by Philip Lemon
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Hey Mr. Lemon, Do you have a specific animation style that you have in mind?
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Why yes I do, Louis. "The Lego Movie".
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Hi Phillip,
I hear you about being conflicted. Comedy that pokes fun/satirizes/spoofs/mocks others, groups, institutions or issues/events is inherently like walking in a mine field. Comedy is tragedy turned upside down, and somebody probably is always going to be offended by some of those elements.
There's no doubt that the proliferation of social media certainly makes it easier for masses of people to congregate and organize. Many certainly are very well-intentioned and can exercise their power to change inequalities that are long overdue.
I guess the key to comedy in today's world is....well...to be more careful than ever before. Or not. That's up to the artist, and the Powers-That-Be that fund the artist There are not-so-fine lines between well-intentioned comedy that can be "spot-on" without being terrible examples of some personal nasty prejudices. Personally, I've seen a lot of stand-up comics trying out new material here in Las Vegas, and they have been well aware of those lines for years. I've also spoken with producers over the years who completely stay away from racy comedy because of the controversial nature and the potential aftermaths. I know actors who don't seek roles in any type of potentially offensive comedy content. I'd imagine a lot of other content providers - like filmmakers, TV/Cable/New Media Producers, authors, songwriters, painters, etc. - have set views and beliefs regarding the subject, too.
But an artist is probably never going to make everyone happy (or not offended to some degree) when it comes to comedy - or any art form, for that matter. The least offensive route: to solely poke fun at oneself. But even the subject matters, delivery and even language one might use to poke fun at oneself can even offend some. Comics sure can have it rough - or as Comicus said in History of the World Part One..."boy, when you die at the palace, you REALLY DIE at the palace!"
Best fortunes in your creative endeavors, Phillip, and stay safe!
Hey Claude, yep it is all animated (no Roger Rabbit bits).
Philip,
I watched Housos. I thought it was funny as hell. Belly laughs, thong slapping.
“I have the biggest ass in Sunnyvale.”
Housos offended everybody. That is show that cannot be made in the USA.
So if your show is funny, it will shine.
Comedy is entirely subjective. You will know when you can’t go pass that line.
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Bill,
Some Vegas acts get it.
Andrew Dice Clay was unfunny, George Carlin was hilarious.
The best at self-deprecating humor was Don Curry, because he made black struggle funny. You would think that was impossible, but he did it.
The Aussie show Housos I mentioned cannot find an audience here. It was show about the people who live in housing projects and work hard at not ever working. Tough subject for the American audience.
The show exaggerated every stereotype and somehow remained funny. I guess it was because they made fun of EVERYONE. It pushed the edge.
One mistake, one joke over the edge, and it falls apart. Tread lightly and funny Phil.