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Lesson 7: Comedy: Incongruent Situations
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ROM COM – Lesson 7
What I learned during this assignment is how easy it is to create these awkward moments that become comedic. Sadly, similar scenes have been missing in my previous Rom Coms. This is a great exercise and learning curve.ASSIGNMENT:
GET A LOT OF LAUGHS IN ONE SCENE !
1. Use list to Brainstorm incongruent situations:
Something About Mary – Shakespeare In Love
USE THIS LIST
1. Misinterpretation
2. Comedic Surprise
3. Wildly inappropriate Response
4. Forced Union of Incompatibles
5. Embarrassment
6. Comedic Tragedy2. With each one brainstorm possible toppers by asking – What could make this situation worse for the character.
COMEDIC SCENE #1
INT. COCKPIT – NIGHT
Riley and Emmy settle into their jump seats, tired, ready to crash at any moment. Emmy blocks out any possible exposure to Riley, puts her eye mask in place, pulls a blanket over her head. Minutes later she jumps to her feet and bolts from the cabin to the toilet.
INT. TOILET (CONTINUOUS)
Emmy just makes it, flops onto the toilet and forgets to latch the toilet door. She rips off her top, smells her underarm and rips off her bra for a sponge bath.
PILOT CABIN
Riley jolts awake with a bathroom urge, propels out of the cockpit.INT. TOILET (CONTINUOUS)
The toilet door slams open. Riley crams inside and slams into Emmy, breasts first. He gapes. She screams, pushes him hard as the door locks behind him. She covers her breasts. Drops her bra. As she bends to scoop it up she stops and lands eye to eye with his package, still covered, but pertruding!
Riley screams, “Out! Out!.” The door is still unlocked. A flight attendant pops her head inside and whispers “Keep it quiet.” Emmy says, “What! You think we’re doing it?” The stewardess smiles, winks, disappears. The plane hits an air pocket. Remmy screams, grabs hold of Riley where she shouldn’t. As their gaze locks they both burst out laughing.
He’s flustered, apologizing. He’s covering her up with his arms around her and suddenly his hug feels good. She surrenders for a second, then re-thinks. They do a dance as each tries to leave, brushing constantly up against each other.
There’s more turbulence! The plane lurches. They slam together again. She pushes him. They get their footing. She says,” You go.” He says, “You first.” But neither one is in a hurry to leave.
COMEDIC SCENE #2
INT. CHILDCARE CENTER – PALM SPRINGS – DAY
It’s prime time for mothers to drop off children. Riley enters, straight off the red eye flight, completely surprising Emmy! She screams, hugs him intensely, then introduces him to her mother, Nancy who is overwhelmed with the number of infants being dropped off. SEVEN MOTHERS drop off their one to four year olds, to be cared for until the end of their work day.
Riley and Emmy hug and kiss again for a few minutes – but the babies keep coming. Finally, Emmy jumps in with her mom, Nancy, overwhelmed by the number of “drop-offs.” Nancy shoves a nine-month-old into Riley’s arms, “Two of our helpers called in sick today, so here, find him a bed.” She smells him, ‘Oh God, he’s exploded, needs a diaper.” Riley panics, has no clue what to do. Emmy jumps in, shows him how and he goes pale. Shakes his head – there’s no way he’s doing the same.
Emmy takes in three more one-year-olds, settles them into cribs then takes a quick break with Riley. They hug a lot, talk a little. She asks, “Your Dad needs you. How the hell did you get away?” Riley says, “I bribed my sister. It wasn’t easy, cost me a trip to Cabo just for her to handle things for a few days.”
Mothers keep arriving! There’s now a total of twelve NEWBORN TO FIVE YEAR OLDS! Emmy slams a set of TWINS into Riley’s arms and points, “Put them in that play pen over there, will you.” As he does so, one of them throws up and drenches Riley. He’s upset, can’t handle the smell. He goes to Emmy, “Hey babe, can’t do this. It’s grossing me out. It doesn’t help that I’m sleep deprived. Is there someplace I can crash?”
Emmy agrees to take him home if he’ll wait ten minutes. Riley collapses on a bench in a far quiet corner — until a precocious FIVE YEAR OLD spots him, picks up his airplane launcher toy, starts firing at Riley until he runs outside. Emmy stops the boy, runs after Riley.
Back at Emmy’s home Riley jokes, “Hey babe, let’s rethink kids of our own.”
She gives a half smile, “I’ll be back in a minute.” She then enters her bedroom and hides her home made announcement, “ You & Me Babe, we are pregnant.’
COMEDY SCENE #3
Emmy flies into Seattle, takes an Uber to the shipyard, to McKay Boat Builders. She walks in unannounced, asks for Riley. The CLERK says he’s taken a yacht out on a trial run and should be docking pretty soon.
Emmy hustles to the docks, catches him before he sets sail. He is crazy happy to see her, takes her on the trial run.
Ten minutes at sea and Emmy’s Southern Cal tan has fast faded. She turns ghostly pale, She’s holding her stomach leaning over the rails. Ryan’s shouting from the helm, “Are you okay, babe?” She smiles, tries faking it, but he sees she is about to lose her lunch. He puts the steering on auto pilot and as he runs to her she projects, throws up all over him. He grabs a hose, cleans off. They hug and then she throws up again. She’s as pale as — He decides to take the boat back in. She keeping heaving all the way back to the dock. -
Stuarts Comedy Situations:
What I learned doing this assignment…
This was a valuable exercise in exploring comic situations as I evaluated sequence and scene development. I found it challenging to brainstorm within the romantic context, but it also allowed me to expand the possibilities for comedy.
Brainstorming…
Misinterpretation:
Before Julian and Angelina are aware of their professor-student relationship, during the meet-cute conflict on the water, this can set up a misinterpretation in their classroom scene where she embarrasses him. This theme continues at the school’s wine and cheese gala for Angelina, where she encourages him to come to Venice to learn about romance and love as a gondolier.
When Julian goes to Venice, he’s no longer the student but the servant.
The disguises in Venice offer opportunities for misinterpretation: Julian as a gondolier, Julian disguised as one of Angelina’s suitors during Carnival, leading to their first kiss.
Julian can craft misinterpretation while manipulating Angelina’s dual suitors.
In Acts III and IV, when Remi comes to Venice to win Julian back, Angelina misinterprets their relationship.
When Julian ingratiates himself with the Rossis—there’s uncertainty about whether he’s a cousin. The reality is much worse: he’s related to the branch of the family responsible for the deep divide between the Rossis and the Bianchis.
Julian’s crew skills may help him maneuver a gondola, but his initial attempts with the single oar could escalate the embarrassment until he learns to adapt.
A misinterpretation over a work of art—Julian and Angelina are reflecting on two different pieces, one romantic, one erotic.
When Julian hires Marco Bianchi to transport Angelina to her wedding, Marco places Julian in his own place.Comedic Surprises:
Julian unveils his reinvented gondola and gondola experience at the competition, subverting all expectations.
Surprises will happen in juggling Angelina’s two suitors.
The comedic, humiliating surprise when Francesco outs Julian, causing him to lose the family endorsement of his competition entry.
Fun commedia dell’arte-inspired comic mechanics with the dueling suitors for Angelina’s heart, especially when Julian (in disguise, mistaken for one suitor) kisses Angelina, and the power of this kiss pushes her to commit to the suitor.
Angelina hires Francesco as her gondolier—surprise, Julian is training under Francesco (also an opportunity for misinterpretation).Wildly Inappropriate Responses:
The escalation of inappropriate responses during their charged meet-cute carries into the classroom, with students perplexed by the exchange between Julian and Angelina.
The escalation of inappropriate, embarrassing responses between the dueling suitors vying for Angelina’s heart—how far will the situation and stakes push them?
During the wine and cheese send-off, Angelina shuts Julian down and tells him to pursue Remi. This intensifies their exchanges when Julian shows up in Venice and realizes he’s falling in love with Angelina.
Julian’s responses to his gondolier training—coming from an East Coast university crew background, his initial trials to learn how to be a gondolier challenge him.Forced Union of Incompatibles:
Their meet-cute conflict sets up a man vs. woman dynamic, which then shifts into a professor-student scenario.
Julian tries to break this dynamic when he goes to Venice—he’s out of school but now a gondolier, a servant to Angelina. When she discovers him, she wields her power of privilege over him.
In terms of love (personal transformation), Angelina has closed off her heart due to her past and shut herself off from genuine love. Julian needs to find and learn to express his authentic heart. They are incompatible, yet they need each other for their development.Embarrassment:
Julian is embarrassed when he declares his love to Remi in Act I.
He’s embarrassed again when he’s outed by cousin Francesco.
Julian and Angelina experience mutual embarrassment (though they deny it) during their meet-cute.
I’m exploring the sequence(s) in Act III where Angelina is embarrassed while maneuvering her two suitors’ proposals. She kisses Julian (disguised), believing he’s one of the suitors. She’s embarrassed when she commits to the suitor and another kiss feels oddly different.
This escalates to a situation where Julian is embarrassed during the competition in Act III, leading to a miserable failure.Comedic Tragedy:
Julian’s abysmal failure during the certification, followed by his embarrassing outing by Francesco, pushes him to reformulate his gondola for the competition.
Angelina has been pushing Julian to focus on Remi, but she realizes she’s fallen in love with Julian.-
This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Stuart Voytilla.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Stuart Voytilla.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by
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What I learned about this lesson was how to incorporate humor into the script with incongruent situations.
1. Use this list to brainstorm Incongruent Situations for your Rom Com.
• 1. Misinterpretation – Chris finds Dracula’s lair but it has a Jewish star on the floor and a prayer pulpit because the space was used many years ago by Jewish immigrants first coming to America.
• Misinterpretation: No one believes Count Dracul is really Dracula the vampire. A lot of humor will come from this misinterpretation. Chris believes Count Dracul to be a great method actor.
• 2. Comedic Surprise – Chris is searching for Dracula’s lair and discovers a closet full of his capes. As he moves the capes around on the rack, he fails to see some of the auditioners bodies are hanging in plastic with the capes.
• 3. Wildly Inappropriate Response – Chris found the coffin and decides to test it out. Count Dracul finds Chris in the coffin. Chris exclaims as the coffin is opened, “This is nice. If you add a mini-bar it works.”
• 4. Forced union of incompatibles – Sophia a successful independent alive woman and Count Dracul who is a vampire, needs blood to survive, and is the Prince of Darkness.
• 5. Embarrassment – Bo and Ron Fielder try to explain to Count Dracul why they left the castle. It was because they were having it deep-cleaned when Bo had an accident on the rug. “I’m not proud of it,” he says sheepishly.
• Embarrassment and Wildly inappropriate response: Chris never felt he had a fan base until Count Dracul’s family of undead tell him what a great actor he is and how they look forward to his films. They think of him as a super star on screen. When Count Dracul says not to worry, they won’t touch you, Chris responds, “I don’t think I will touch myself either. And that’s one of my favorite things.”
• 6. Comedic tragedy – The theatre building goes up in flames as Dracula and family feast on the Van Helsings. Dracula declares “I told my family there would be dinner and a show. Shows over and it looks like we are having Bar-B-Que.” -
Rita’s Comedy Situations
What I learned doing this assignment:
— Look for ways to take a scene that just has conflict and turn it into comedy. Then top it, repeatedly!
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INT. RESTAURANT – NIGHT
They finish the last bites of their meal.
ARIALE
So, as you can tell from all these dreams my subconscious is working overtime.
BEN
It's fascinating.
Ariale beams at him, chewing.
BEN
I haven't been dreaming much lately. To be honest…
He folds his napkin carefully.
Ariale chokes.
ARIALE
Uh oh, here it comes.
BEN
No, it's not bad.
BEN
Well, I hope you don't think so. I've just been in kind of a stressful transition.
ARIALE
Due to what?
BEN
Well, technically, I mean we just have to work out a few details.
ARIALE
You are married!
Ariale wipes her mouth and throws her napkin on her plate. She motions to the waiter.
BEN
Almost divorced, it's just not quite final yet.
ARIALE
Check please!
BEN
Don't go.
Ariale stands up to get the waiter's attention. No waiters but plenty of diners notice her.
The very young woman, maybe GIRL, at the next table dines with an older man. She shrinks in her chair as any student does when facing an angry teacher.
ARIALE
(to Girl)
And are you almost of age?
(to her date)
And are you almost ashamed of yourself?
The GIRL, pulls on her sweater to hide bare shoulders.
GIRL
Gross.
Ariale spies another target. A round waitress shovels desert into her face.
ARIALE
And I suppose you're almost pregnant, right?
WAITRESS
(mouth full)
Well, actually…
She swallows cake and turns to her boss.
WAITRESS
There's something I need to tell you.
BOSS looks back and forth to plan his fast exit.
BARTENDER slams down a bottle which somehow doesn't break.
BARTENDER
What?! I guess that also makes you almost gay!
A collective groan rolls through the restaurant.
The first Girl's mother returns from the bathroom. The father gathers his family to get out, quick.
BEN
Maybe we can talk about this outside.
BARTENDER
(to boss)
And we can talk about that raise.
ARIALE
If I could get a check, PLEASE!
Three workers run to their station to ring up the madwoman.
Ariale nearly strangles herself trying wrap her scarf around her neck.
BEN
Can we at least be friends? It'll just be another week or so.
ARIALE
I always pick 'em. Did you get that dog just to charm unsuspecting women?
BEN
Chuck has been with me for six years! My wife kind of hates him. Ex-wife. The feeling is mutual, actually.
ARIALE
I suppose you have kids too, which you conveniently forgot to mention. Never mind, I don't want to know.
ARIALE
(motions toward Boss)
Maybe you and this guy can be dead-beat-dad buddies.
Boss backs through kitchen doors.
Waitress bursts into tears.
BEN
Please, just let me walk you to your car.
Waiter finally arrives with the bill, baffled as to who gets it.
Arial snatches it and drops it in Ben's lap on her way to the exit.
ARIALE
I'm not paying for this. Not in any capacity.
He's stuck.
Restaurant erupts in applause.
Ariale turns and bows before bounding out.
Ben leaves his credit card on the table and runs after her.
BEN
(to diners)
I really am divorced. Almost.
Another groan of collective condemnation.
EXT. RESTAURANT – NIGHT
Ben bolts out the door to see Ariale drive off. She flips him the bird.
The waiter finds him, looking for a signature.
WAITER
Did you enjoy your meal?
BEN
Seriously?
WAITER
We're supposed to ask. -
Renee’s Comedy Situations
What I learned doing this assignment is…
Act 1 – Set up
Misinterpretation: During their initial meeting, Sarah mistakenly interprets Mike’s nervous chatter about the storm as metaphors for their burgeoning relationship, leading to awkward yet funny exchanges.
Comedic Surprise: After hearing the rumor about Mike, a classmate spills a punch, momentarily diffusing the tension. Sarah storms off and slips on the spilled punch. She flails and grabs onto one of the teachers, inadvertently pulling his pants down with her.
Wildly Inappropriate Response: After hearing the rumor, Sarah grabs the DJ’s microphone to declare the prom “officially horrible,” only to be met with confused applause.
Act 2 – Escalation
Comedic Surprise: Sarah arrives to help plan the reunion and unexpectedly finds her mother has already volunteered her for every committee, including a comically mismatched “Hip Hop Performance” because “you used to love dancing in your room.”
Forced Union of Incompatibles: Sarah, a meticulous planner with a high-powered career, is forced to work with “DJ” a laid-back, disorganized committee member who suggest wildly inappropriate themes for the reunion, like “Time to Relive Your Awkward Phase”
Embarrassment: During one of the planning sessions, Mike tries to impress Sarah by recalling a cool high school moment, only to reveal a mortifying story that ends with him being pantsed during a pep rally, which everyone but him remembers fondly.
Wildly Inappropriate Response: When Sarah’s ex announces he is her fiancé at the town meeting, Mike, feeling inadequate and trying to defuse the tension, jokingly claims he and Sarah are expecting twins. The town reacts with shock and excitement, further complicating the situation.
Act 3 – Complications and Higher Stakes
Misinterpretation & Embarrassment: As Sarah and Mike visit new venues, Mike misinterprets a guide’s comment about the suitability of a “romantic” venue as a personal suggestion, leading to an awkward but humorous declaration of his feelings about their relationship in front of a confused staff.
Embarrassment: During their venue hunt, Sarah tries to impress Mike by showing off her rural skills, only to mistakenly cause a small chaos at a farm, releasing animals or maybe starting a mini tractor.
Act 4 – Climax and Resolution
Misinterpretation & Comedic Surprise: In London, when Mike arrives to declare his love, he is mistaken for a motivational speaker and ends up unintentionally leading a seminar on “Following Your Heart in Business,” using his journey as a metaphor.-
This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Renee Miller.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by
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Dean's Comedy Situations
What I learned from doing this assignment is a refresher of some the skills taught in Sreenwriting U's awesome Comedy Writing Class.
1. Misinterpretation
Scene: While rehearsing a scene, Ethan and Sophie misinterpret their director Max's instructions. Max tells them to "act natural" during a romantic sunset scene by the lake. Ethan, thinking Max meant to loosen up and be themselves, starts telling Sophie a completely unrelated joke in the middle of the scene, causing Sophie to burst out laughing. Max, of course, was referring to the natural flow of their romantic dialogue, not for them to literally be themselves, and he’s hilariously frustrated by how they "ruined" the take.
Dialogue:
Max: "I said act natural!"
Ethan: "I was! That joke kills at every party."
Max: "This isn’t a party! It’s a love scene!"Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
As Ethan finishes his joke, the crew members who overhear it burst into laughter, completely ruining the romantic ambiance. To make matters worse, Max (the director), already frustrated, angrily tells them to reset the scene. However, when they reset, Ethan accidentally starts telling a different joke instead of the script lines, completely confusing Sophie. When they finally get back on track, Ethan misquotes the script, leading to a cringe-worthy and unintentionally awkward moment.
2. Comedic Surprise
Scene: During a particularly romantic scene where Ethan is supposed to sweep Sophie off her feet and carry her away, he suddenly slips on a stray fish left on the dock from an earlier scene. Instead of gracefully carrying her, Ethan and Sophie both end up flopping into the water. The comedic surprise comes from the fact that this was the moment they were both supposed to finally be "in the zone," but the unexpected mishap makes them laugh uncontrollably, despite their characters' supposed to be in a passionate embrace.
Dialogue:
Ethan: "Looks like I caught the wrong fish!"
Sophie: (giggling) "And here I thought you were supposed to be the expert!"Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
After they fall into the water, they both scramble to get out, but Sophie’s dress gets caught on Ethan’s fishing rod. In a panic, she yanks on it, causing the fishing rod to swing around and knock over several props, including a bucket of live fish that spills all over the dock. As they try to stand up, the fish are flopping around under their feet, making it impossible to regain their balance. To add insult to injury, a photographer snaps pictures of the entire fiasco, and the images go viral as "the worst romantic scene in movie history."
3. Wildly Inappropriate Response
Scene: In a serious scene where Sophie’s character is confessing her deepest fears to Ethan’s character, Ethan suddenly sneezes loudly in the middle of her monologue. He tries to play it off, but Sophie, staying in character, uses it as an opportunity to ad-lib. She dramatically turns the sneeze into part of the scene, pretending that her character is allergic to love. The director is both impressed and baffled by how they’ve turned a mistake into something that oddly works for the scene.
Dialogue: Sophie: (in character, after the sneeze) "You
see? Even your body rejects the idea of love!"
Ethan: (also in character, sniffing) "Or maybe it’s just your perfume…"Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
After Sophie incorporates the sneeze into the scene, Ethan tries to stay in character, but his allergies kick in full force. He starts sneezing uncontrollably, making it impossible to deliver his lines. Sophie tries to keep the scene going, but then she starts laughing at how ridiculous the situation is. The director, Max, insists they continue, but Ethan accidentally sneezes on Sophie, causing her to finally break character in a mix of disgust and laughter. As a final blow, the crew runs out of tissues, leaving Ethan to deal with his allergy fit while everyone else helplessly watches.
4. Forced Union of Incompatibles
Scene: As part of a promotional event for the movie, the cast is forced to participate in a "Fish & Love Festival" at the fishing village. Ethan and Sophie are paired together for a competitive fish gutting contest, which neither of them knows how to do. Their bickering turns into a slapstick routine as they accidentally fling fish guts everywhere, including on each other. The event is a complete disaster, but the crowd loves it, much to Ethan and Sophie’s chagrin.
Dialogue:
Sophie: "This isn’t in my contract!"
Ethan: "It wasn’t in mine either, but here we are, covered in fish guts… again."Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
As they struggle to gut the fish, Sophie accidentally flicks fish guts onto the festival’s celebrity guest—a famous food critic who was supposed to judge the event. The critic, horrified, slips on the guts and crashes into the festival’s prize display, sending the grand prize trophy flying into the lake. The event organizers panic, and they blame Ethan and Sophie for ruining the festival. To make things worse, the critic is furious and vows to write a scathing review, not just of the festival, but of the entire movie they're promoting.
5. Embarrassment
Scene: During a scene where Ethan is supposed to serenade Sophie on a boat, he tries to impress her by actually playing the guitar himself. Unfortunately, he doesn’t know how to play, and his attempt is so bad that Sophie can’t keep a straight face. The boat, rocking gently in the water, suddenly starts to tip over as Ethan tries to save face and show off, leading to both of them falling into the lake. The crew has to pause filming to fish them out, and the whole cast ends up laughing at Ethan’s failed attempt at musicianship.
Dialogue:
Sophie: "I didn’t know you were tone-deaf."
Ethan: "I’m not! The boat’s just throwing off my rhythm!"Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
After they fall into the lake, they try to swim back to the boat, but the boat begins to drift away. As they struggle to reach it, they realize the water is shallow, and they’ve been flailing around unnecessarily. Embarrassed, they wade back to shore, only to find that the entire cast and crew have been filming their blunder the whole time, capturing every embarrassing moment. To top it all off, the footage accidentally gets uploaded to the movie's official social media accounts, making their unintentional "serenade fail" a viral sensation.
6. Comedic Tragedy
Scene: A particularly emotional scene requires Ethan to finally confess his character’s love for Sophie’s character. However, just as he’s about to deliver his line, the fishing boat they’re on begins to sink due to an unnoticed leak. The boat sinking is slow but inevitable, and they try to stay in character as long as possible, but eventually, water starts sloshing over the edge, and Ethan’s dramatic line, "I love you more than the sea itself!" is interrupted by the boat capsizing. The scene ends with them clinging to the overturned boat, completely soaked, with the crew frantically trying to rescue them.
Dialogue:
Ethan: (clinging to the boat) "This wasn’t the drowning in love I had in mind!"
Sophie: "Well, at least it was memorable."Topper:
What could make this situation worse?
As the boat sinks, they realize they forgot to bring life jackets. Ethan, in a panic, tries to use the script pages as makeshift paddles, which, of course, doesn’t work. Sophie, trying to lighten the mood, starts joking about their "sinking relationship," but Ethan accidentally drops the only working radio into the water, cutting off their communication with the crew. Just when they think things can’t get worse, a swarm of mosquitoes descends on them, attracted by the still water. They’re forced to choose between staying on the sinking boat or jumping into the mosquito-infested water. The director, watching from the shore, decides to keep filming, declaring that the sinking boat is "symbolic" and might actually work for the movie—completely missing the point that they’re in genuine danger.
Additional Ideas
Fishing Trip Disaster: As part of getting into character, Ethan and Sophie are sent on a real fishing trip together to bond. Neither of them knows what they’re doing, leading to a series of slapstick mishaps: tangled fishing lines, accidentally catching each other’s hats, and even Ethan somehow falling overboard when he finally catches a fish that’s too strong for him.
Mishap with Props: During a scene that involves casting a fishing line, Ethan accidentally hooks Sophie’s hat, which flies off into the lake. Sophie, staying in character, improvises by saying something like, "I guess that’s why they call it a hook, line, and sinker," much to the director’s dismay, but it turns into a running joke throughout the film.
Unintended Pyrotechnics: In a dramatic love confession scene at night, the director decides to add some fireworks in the background for effect. However, the fireworks go off too early, and instead of a romantic backdrop, the characters are ducking for cover from the misfired pyrotechnics. Ethan, in a panic, shouts, "I love you! Now get down!" as they take cover, ruining the serious tone but making for a hilarious outtake.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Dean Burkey.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by
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Brenda Clarke
This lesson really opens up the thought processes for adding comedy into the script, its just a beginning but room to grow:)
Lesson 7. Incongruent Situations:
Use this list to brainstorm Incongruent Situations for your Rom Com.
• 1. Misinterpretation
Mollie upon arriving at Cornelia’s home uses some Cockney Rhyming Slang, which she doesn’t understand
Eg:- Been a long drive on the frog and toad, in me ol’ jam jar, I could sure do with a Jimmy Riddle.
I beg your pardon?
Sorry can you point me in the direction of the privy.
Oh, down the corridor, the last door to your left.
• 2. Comedic Surprise
Mollie is in the pub with her friends celebrating her win. She is offered a pint of bear but refuses. She answers, “No thanks, I have only four rules that I live by:-
I .don’t drink, 2. I don’t smoke, 3. I don’t swear and 4. I don’t fuck men.
Oh, sorry 3 rules then, which gets a LAUGH. She smiles at her friends then orders:- “Ginger beer thanks”.
• 3. Wildly Inappropriate Response
When asked by one of her lesbian friends if her new “love interest” is perhaps only interested in men, Mollie replies, “no I have a gut instinct she wants Lickin’ not Stickin’! This too gets a big LAUGH
• 4. Forced union of incompatibles
Jean invites Mollie to a luncheon at the musical composers house. Mollie, is out of her depth, she doesn’t know what cutlery to use, she tries some cockney rhyming slang, which doesn’t go down well. She tries her best to be sociable but is a nervous wreck, she doesn’t want to disappoint Jean. (this needs to be developed further)
• 5. Embarrassment
Day of the first race where Mollie is dressed as a man, with short hair and moustache to complete the disguise. She wins the race, but the wind has loosened her moustache. Her actress friend, immediately notices this, as Mollie gets out of the car. The crowd cheer, her friend rushes up to Mollie and kisses her passionately on the mouth. The crowd enjoy this. After the kiss, her actress friend quickly whispers “Your moustache” they both immediately press it tightly to her upper lip. Molly embarrassed by this sudden show of affection, she goes bright red, which people notice in the crowd, some may respond “ Oh lucky chap, he’s on a promise”. ‘Woo Hoo” “Good on you” applaud etc. Mollie waves to the crowd as she accepts her winnings. Her and the actress quickly make their escape. This is all witnessed by Lady Cornelia Lyttleton.
Embarrassment with toppers:-
Mollie at Lady Cornelia’s mansion. She is served a pot of tea and some light refreshments. As Mollie reaches for a cucumber sandwich, Lady Cornelia/JEAN notices her dirty fingernails, raising her eyebrows, which Mollie notices. Mollie quickly responds:-
Mechanic: "I’m sorry for m’ nails. They look dirty, but I assure you they're squeeky clean. The grease just sticks around."
Woman: "Why is that?"
Mechanic: "Oh, it's my signature scent. You know how some people have a favourite perfume or cologne? Mine’s Mine’s 'Eau de Engine. Cornelia smirks.
Mollie tries to up the anti and improvises more names:-
Motor Musk . . .Piston Perfume . . .um . . .Spark Plug Splash.
Jean quietly giggles, this makes Mollie go for more names of perfumes.
Mollie:- Exhaust Elegance . . .Mechanics Mist . . . Lubricant Luxury, I’ve got it, what about “Diesel Delight”.
This gets a big LAUGH from Jean, (she gets the inuendo) Mollie LAUGHS along with her,
Mollie ends with OR something named after my beautiful host, how ‘bout . . .Gasket Glamour.
JEAN laughs "That is a unique fragrance!"
Jean sips her tea, as Mollie finally bites into the sandwich.
6. Comedic tragedy
Perhaps have the Musical Composer come on to Mollie, she has to work her way out of this sticky situation, of course does this with humour. Leaves the composer, hot/bothered/frustrated to say the least. (needs development)-
This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Brenda Clarke.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by
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Pat's Comedy Situations
What ‘;ve learned is that it's lots of fun to create comedy situations and surprisingly easy. I know that I’ll ind more as my script gets refined, but I’m happy with the ones that I created today.
Misinterpretation:
When Mitch sees Jaki in a clown suit and clown make-up he thinks she is a man. When Jaki turns toward Mitch and he notices her ample boobs he decides that she’s a man in drag. Mitch makes a comment about Jaki’s convincing chest, which causes Jaki to start her clown strip.Jaki initially thinks that Mitch is his dad’s caregiver, not his son. She’s polite to him at first, but then sees his expensive car and is so startled that she trips in front of the car and is almost run over, in a funny way, of course.
While Mitch jogs past the strip club that he plans to buy he sees homeless folks entering when the club is closed. He thinks that they are robbing the place and calls the police. The police arrive. Mitch goes into the club with them to see Jaki and her friend serving a meal to the homeless folks, which makes Mitch think twice over Jaki being nothing but a gold digger.
Jaki thinks M itch wants to buy the strip club to keep it a strip club, and fire her from bartending in favor of a younger woman.. She has no idea he wants to transform it into a neighborhood recreation center and refuses to listen to him when he tries to tell her that. The result is that Jaki is embarrassed and relieved to learn the truth, which causes her to let her guard down and allow feelings to flow toward Mitch.
COMEDIC SURPRISE:
Mitch’s dad fakes a stroke to end the feud between Jaki and Mitch, but he can’t remember which side of his face that he pretends is paralyzed.
Jaki tells Mitch that if he wants to buy a strip club he better learn how to strip. He then jumps on stage and proceeds to do a super sexy dance.
Jaki starts a dance class at the assisted living home. She’s teaches willing and fun-loving women how to strip.After learning Jaki never graduated high school, he has graduation music play while he presents her with a cap and gown and rolled up paper that proclaims her the supervisor of his future recreation center.
WILDLY INAPPROPRIATE RESPONSE:
When learning that Mitch wants to buy the strip club, Jaki chases him out wielding a baseball bat. Mitch stumbles across a baseball and pitches it to her. Jaki hits it and it breaks a window at the business next door.
When Mitch suspects that his dad’s vintage Rolex was stolen he tries to remove Dad from the home, but other residents, led by Jaki, surround Dad in a sit-in protest.
FORCED UNION BETWEEN INCOMPATIBLES:
Jaki and Mitch must feign friendship when his dad has a stroke.
Wealthy Mitch and homeless folks band together to prove how beneficial a recreation center would be in their neighborhood.
Jaki’s best friend bonds with Mitch to convince Jaki that Mitch needs to buy the strip club building.EMBARRASSMENT:
Jaki searches for Mitch’s dad’s watch, but when Mitch enters Dad’s room, Jaki hides under the bed. Mitch looks under the bed to find Jaki there. She tells him that she was just taking a nap.
Mitch finds the watch he accused Jaki of stealing in a jacket pocket, where his dad had put it so Mitch could get the watch repaired.
Jaki attempts to enter Dad’s room at the home via an outdoor window. The window closes on her and she’s left dangling half in and half out. As Jaki struggles to get inside the buttons on her blouse all pop off.
COMEDIC TRAGEDY:
Drawing a blank on this one. I’ll give this to my creative mind to figure out over night.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by Pat Fitzgerald.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 4 weeks ago by
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Kimbal Thompson Lesson 7: Comedy: Incongruent Situations ASSIGNMENT:
What I learned doing this assignment is
1. Use this list to brainstorm Incongruent Situations for your Rom Com.
1. Misinterpretation:
A. Male protagonist not knowing who was calling on telephone call & wrong name.
B. Asking visiting former high school girlfriend to meet on a specific beach
C. Male protagonist mistaking female protagonist’s professor for her boyfriend.
2. Comedic Surprise:
A. Toss up of astrological sign key fobs.
B. Who was calling male protagonist on telephone.
C. Visiting former high school girlfriend meeting on gay beach.
D. Female protagonist swimsuit selection and unveiling.
E. Female protagonist pole dancing.
3. Wildly Inappropriate Response:
A. Current date, sneaking into window of male protagonist
B. Sounds of waterbed.
C. Reaction to female protagonist night tapping on male protagonist’s door at night.
D. Reaction of bouncer toward male protagonist.
E. Reaction of male protagonist’s friend toward bouncer.
F. Initial reaction of female protagonist while pole dancing.
4. Forced union of incompatibles:
A. Inviting a former girlfriend from high school to dinner with current girlfriend.
B. Inviting female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
C. The morning following female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
D. Female protagonists and audience at club where she danced.
E. Male protagonist and bouncer.
5. Embarrassment:
A. Male protagonist not knowing who was calling on telephone call & wrong name.
B. Reaction of male protagonist meeting former high school girlfriend on gay beach.
C. Female protagonist swimsuit selection and unveiling.
D. Male protagonist at morning following his date sneaking into window.
E. Male protagonist over-reacting to female protagonist’s pole dance.
6. Comedic tragedy:
A. Inviting a former girlfriend from high school to dinner with current girlfriend.
B. Inviting female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
C. The morning following female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
D. Reaction to female protagonist night tapping on male protagonist’s door at night.
2. With each one, brainstorm possible toppers by asking, “What could make this situation worse
for the character?”
1. Misinterpretation:
A. Male protagonist saying other girls’ names on telephone call from his girlfriend’s
parents.
B. Asking visiting former high school girlfriend to meet on a specific beach.
C. Male protagonist mistaking female protagonist’s professor for her girlfriend.
2. Comedic Surprise:
A. Toss up of astrological sign key fob being incompatible signs.
B. Present girlfriend parents who were calling male protagonist on telephone.
C. Visiting now gay former high school girlfriend meeting on male gay beach.
D. Female protagonist wearing no swimsuit on unveiling.
E. Female protagonist refusing to pole dance.
3. Wildly Inappropriate Response:
A. Current date, sneaking into wrong window of male protagonist.
B. Sounds of waterbed exploding.
C. Female protagonist walking in on male protagonist and date at night.
D. Reaction of male protagonist bouncing bouncer.
E. Reaction of male protagonist’s friend toward pole dancer.
F. Initial reaction of other pole dancers toward male protagonist while pole dancing.
4. Forced union of incompatibles:
A. Not inviting a former girlfriend from high school to dinner with current girlfriend.
B. Not inviting female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
C. The morning alone following inviting female friend to dinner with a current
girlfriend.
D. All male audience at club where she danced.
E. Male protagonist and other pole dancers.
5. Embarrassment:
A. Male protagonist knowing who was calling on telephone call & wrong name.
B. Reaction of male protagonist meeting former high school girlfriend on nudist
beach.
C. Female protagonist not wearing a swimsuit upon unveiling.
D. Male protagonist at morning following both his date and female friend leaving
together.
E. Male protagonist ignoring female protagonist’s pole dance.
6. Comedic tragedy:
A. Inviting a former girlfriend from high school to dinner with current girlfriend’s
mom.
B. Inviting female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend and resultant food fight.
C. The morning following neither female friend to dinner with a current girlfriend.
D. Female protagonist not tapping on male protagonist’s door at nigh -
Lynn’s Comedy Situations SOPHIE’S WHITE CHRISTMAS
WHAT I LEARNED doing this assignment is I don’t have a lot of LOL comedy in my script, but will try to include more using this lesson. I was able to ramp up the humor in a few places, and when I realized I needed a new scene to make the Ethan’s hesitance about Tilly more believable while keeping it that he is falling for her, I was able to include good comedy in that scene, using these techniques (NEW ADDED SCENE below). Now my understanding is that many of the holiday movies, while labeled “romantic comedy” do not have a lot of comedy in them. More like heart-warming, smiley moments. So I’m also going after smiles as much as LOLs.
1. MISINTERPRETATION
— Ethan doesn’t recognize Tilly for a few scenes, only thinking she is this wonderful woman, a saint who saved his life, so he’s getting close to her (despite having a girlfriend he plans to propose to), then when he comes to realize it is “Tilly the traveler,” as he snidely remarked to Paul, he is embarrassed and ashamed of what he said against her.
— Tilly doesn’t know Ethan is “Weatherman 2” (who made a neg, but correct comment about her) but guesses correctly toward the end of Act 3 when both are confessing things. However, she’s in a rush and doesn’t give Ethan the time to tell the greatest deception — that he is in with her family in setting up his friend Paul to date her. This leads to somewhat funny responses and actions in Act 3 when Ethan tries to dissuade her from him, but she only thinks it’s because Ethan needs time to heal after being dumped by his girlfriend. Trying to push her toward the blind date man (his friend Paul), Ethan only draws her closer to himself.
— The Mayor thinks Ethan is Tilly’s husband, which leads to a bit of an embarrassment…. And the last thing Ethan wants with his friend expecting to date Tilly.
—NEW ADDED SCENE (Paul misinterprets the situation of Ethan falling for Tilly and Tilly has no idea Ethan is struggling to be loyal to Paul — sort of like the medieval rack, so it is also “Comedic Tragedy,” and the scene ends with “Embarrassment.”): Ethan has found out from Susan that Tilly has fallen for him, and having fallen for her he calls Paul to find out if Paul is really really into Tilly. Which Paul says he is (a bit of comedic repartee between them). Intercutting scene.
———-ETHAN (on cell): “Well, you couldn’t really really be that keen about dating her—” Tilly then emerges from the chalet to pick up the cap she left, but Ethan’s back is to her so he doesn’t see her. PAUL: “I am. I had a wonderful dream about Tilly last night. Please, please tell me I still have a chance.” The other meteorologists there smile or roll their eyes. ETHAN (very heavy sigh): “I just wanted to know if you’re really really keen about it… So, don’t worry, Bro, I’ll do what I can to swing it your way.” Tilly cocks her head, wondering what’s up. PAUL: “You’re the best friend a guy could have. Gotta get back to work.” Paul ends the call, a smile on his face. Ethan turns, sees Tilly, gets an OMG face. TILLY: “So…?” ETHAN (nervous): “A guy at work. Uh, wants something. I said I’d help.” Ethan gives her a cheeye smile, but Tilly is still confused as she heads back inside.2. COMEDIC SURPRISE
SCENE TWISTS/ECHOES: Not sure if “scene twists” (in which the next scene plays upon something in the preceding scene, but usually a twist) might fit here, but I have a lot of them. Here are a few:
— P1-2: Tilly’s mom and sis worried about Tilly, and yikes about Sophie (Tilly’s niece) taking after Tilly, then NEXT SCENE we meet Tilly, the female protag. But it’s not surprise she fulfills her family’s concerns.
— P4-5: As Tilly and assistant Susan start their trip from NYC westward, singing “off to see the wizard…,” “follow the yellow brick road,” and “Go west, young gal, go west” implying a mythical adventure and pioneer spirit, the NEXT SCENE: EXT. LOS ANGELES – DAY: Establish [big bustling city] Los Angeles at Christmas, Hollywood sign, etc. And we meet the male protag.
— P9: Tilly and Susan discussing marriage and problems with meeting Mr. Right, then NEXT SCENE Ethan (re Paul wanting to date Tilly), says it depends on whether you want meaningless dates or to find Ms. Right, settle down, and have a family…
———- TOPPER: Paul says, “Family. But I reject your premise. Wow-looking doesn't mean she's not wifely or motherly. Don't judge a gal by her lipstick…”
—P22: Tilly and Susan are luxuriating in the Silver Bells hot spring pool. NEXT SCENE: Ethan and Paul are on their way to meet Tilly’s family, Paul saying, “Oh boy, oh boy, I’m in hot water.” Ethan, “Relax, they won’t boil you alive.”
—P27-35, the scenes go back and forth between Ethan struggling on his journey east from LA with setbacks, and Tilly having a great time in Silver Bells town and the chalet, until Ethan ends up frozen stiff at her door. And instead of hitting him over the head with the log she has in hand, fearing an intruder, she relaxes and exclaims, “Yeti!”—METEOROLOGIST CAUGHT IN A BLIZZARD. Ethan has figured it all out, knows he can beat the blizzard by many hours, but not only is he delayed, and has failed to consider mountainous topography (which makes weather more fickle), but he fails to change his watch one hour ahead to MST (and his cell had died because his goofy ride-share Howie had plugged his zero-charge cell into the port).
———-ONE OF THE DELAYS: Ethan drives the whole way, because Howie only has a learner’s permit, so Ethan’s looking for more coffee and exits to get some. Howie says he needs a big hot meal. Ethan: “I have sandwiches.” Howie, “Growing boy.” Ethan spots a burger place just off the road and says, “A burger and fries will have to do.” Howie, “But I’m vegan. Save the earth.” Ethan says his sandwiches are veg, but have cheese.” Howie shakes his head, “won’t do.” Ethan passes the burger place and heads for the town. “Maybe we’ll find something in the town.”
———-WON’T PAY THE SCAM PRICE: Howie’s father tells Ethan he needs snow tires or tire chains if the Traction Law goes into effect (which is does). Ethan stops by a gas station to get chains, but they are $150. Ethan: “That's highway robbery!” Attendant, “You know how it is, we charge more—” Ethan, “Jack up the price.” Attendant, “Yeh, when we only have a few left and a storm’s coming.” Ethan, “I’ll just take my chances.”
—————-TOPPER: Attendant, “Well, good luck, buddy.”— THE SNOW FAMILY: Near end of Act 2 because Ethan and Tilly are stuck at the chalet for a few days, Tilly suggests they do fun things, like make a snowman (a regular Hallmark Christmas trope). When in Act 3 Ethan is trying to dissuade Tilly from him, she shifts the talk to, “Why don't we get out and enjoy the snow, build a snow woman for our snowman.”
———- TOPPER 1: Ethan responds, “Next you’ll want a snow baby.”
———- TOPPER 2: Tilly, “Good idea.”—I’LL RAISE YOU ONE: Near the end of Act 2, Tilly and Ethan are comparing their heartbreak stories and find them quite similar. Tilly fell hard for a guy who was just using her to get free publicity for his boss’s resort. “That’s my story,” says Ethan, explaining how he fell for a gal who was just using him to get a TV weathercaster position. Tilly, “And Cheryl [his current girlfriend] comforted you?” Ethan, “You know my story.” Tilly, “Well, I’ll raise you one. Mine already had a fiance.” Ethan, “Oh that poor woman.” Tilly, “Yeh. I hadn’t thought of it that way. That poor, unlucky woman.” … Tilly, “… And I didn’t have anyone to comfort me, only a family to make me feel worse ever since that I’m not married.” Ethan (sympathetic eyes) “I can’t beat that. I fold. You win the pot.” (a twinkle in his eyes) “So I owe you, what? I know, a dinner at a great restaurant. Do they have one in Silver Bells?” Tilly is thoroughly enjoying this now. “You bet. I think I’ll have lobster.”
———-A bit later, when Tilly tells Ethan he’s lifted her spirits, he replies, “That’s backwards. You’ve lifted mine. Not just saving my life, but I was drowning in, uh, past experiences.” Tilly, “Like almost unable to breathe?… So, I guess it’s a draw.”
———-And later, after Ethan has been dumped by his girl and they are luxuriating in the hot spring pool, he asks how she found this place. “Followed the yellow brick road. That’s my life. Exploration. Adventure.” Ethan, “But Dorothy only wanted one thing, to get out of Oz and get back home.” Tilly, “But she did have a great adventure.” Ethan, “So I guess that's a draw.” Tilly, “Yep.”—PAY IT FORWARD: Ethan, grateful that Tilly saved and treated him, says a couple of times, “I don’t know how I can repay you.” She says, “If you were going west to L.A., there might be a way. [this is in reference to Susan’s suggestion she get someone to pose as her boyfriend to get her mom off her back]. [1] But you already repaid me. I was feeling lonely, especially with the storm.” A bit later when he again says he doesn’t know how he can repay her, she says, “ [2] Just pay it forward.” Then much later in Act 3 when Tilly’s family and the blind date are coming to CO, and when Ethan is trying to sway Tilly toward Paul (she doesn’t know it’s Ethan’s friend and is trying to get out of the blind date), she says, “You could stand in as my boyfriend. [3] You owe me, remember?” Which puts Ethan in a terrible bind, because he would never do anything to hurt his best buddy.
WEDDING CARRIAGE: Town holiday events include carriage rides for charity, with assorted carriages and horse wagons. Tilly and Ethan get in a lavish one, which says “Just Married” on the back. Susan has snapped a photo of them leaving, Tilly’s face and the sign visible, but not Ethan’s face. Tilly gets the photo and sends it to her family, who send it on to Paul, who calls Ethan frantic. [there was an earlier episode of Tilly’s sis telling Paul that Tilly may have a boyfriend. Paul says to Ethan, “So now Tilly is married. You could have told me.” Ethan calms Paul down telling Tilly doesn’t have a boyfriend and is not married….
3. WILDLY INAPPROPRIATE RESPONSE
— YETI/BIG FOOT — P2: TILLY: “I’d rather do skiing season in the Alps, confront Yeti… the Abominable Snowman, Rachel. Us fighting over Santa’s cap on the cover of GREAT GETAWAYS…. [reason] I don't like my mom and sister pestering me. Gets worse every Christmas. [not too funny here, but further mentions of Yeti and Big Foot in Act 2 and 4 tie it up]. This is only “exaggeration” not really “wildly inappropriate.”
———-Topper 1: When Ethan barely makes it to the chalet, frozen, covered in snow and frost, Tilly come to the door, picks up a log afraid of danger, opens the door and sees Ethan, she relaxes, puts the log down, and exclaims, “Yeti!”
———-Topper 2: A little later she is treating Ethan for frostnip, pressing a warm, wet hand towel against part affected. They have a connection/attraction, so when she gets to his foot, he wriggles his toes and says, “Big Foot.” “Hmm?” ETHAN: “They don’t call us Yeti here. We’re called Big Foot.”
———-Topper 3: In Act 4, after Ethan has failed patch up and Susan on the phone says, “But I wish you hadn’t told Paul that Tilly is his. That didn’t help.” Ethan responds, “I’m big foot… in my mouth… Well, I just came back to apologize, but messed up again. It’s best I go back to L.A.”
———-Topper 4: In the final scene Tilly says, “I love you, my Yeti.” Ethan responds, “Big Foot.” Tilly, “No, you’ll always be my Yeti.” Ethan, “You win.” (Note he uses “you win” with her and Paul when he just wants to end it or get on.)4. FORCED UNION OF INCOMPATIBLES
— INCOMPATIBLES 1: Serious protag Ethan with co-worker and house-mate Paul (joker, insecure).
———-P5 Ethan speaks of bad weather, can’t definitively predict LA Xmas weather 2 weeks in advance, disturbing low in the Pacific. Paul: What, Ethan? You expect a blizzard? Ethan (eye roll) Ha-ha, Paul…. A bit later, when Ethan mentions there are pros and cons to heavy snow, Paul says, So you're the Grinch who stole white Christmas from L.A. They continue to engage in other somewhat humorous repartee in this 1st introductory sequence of scenes.
———- They have kept secrets from each other (re Ethan going to propose to girlfriend, Paul getting a blind date with Tilly) now revealed in their first scene. But there’s more to these secrets because of their DEAL: whoever get married first gets their great L.A. house near the beach they bought together in a big market dip.
—————- On P6. when Ethan says he’s going to propose, Paul responds: “Propose! So that’s it. Our deal.” Then Ethan accuses Paul of dating Tilly re the deal. Sort of a friendly, not-too-serious competition.
—————- TOPPER 1: P48: Ethan (before his girlfriend dumps him) tells Tilly about the DEAL trying to get her interested in Paul via the nice house Paul will get when Ethan marries and transfers to Chicago, but Tilly deflects that and turns it against this guy her family is trying to set her up with. This is MISINTERPRETATION, bec she doesn’t know Ethan’s friend is that guy… so his attempt only makes it worse.
—————- TOPPER 2: P64: In a Christmas white elephant exchange in which Tilly, Ethan, and Susan form one unit like a family, they get a pair of toddler roller skates, which Ethan says isn’t really a white elephant since one of us might use them if we have a kid. Tilly with a twinkle then says, “Okay, here's the deal. Whoever gets married and has a kid first gets the skates.”
—————- TOPPER 3: The thing keeping Tilly and Ethan apart in Act 3 and 4 is Ethan’s loyalty to Paul re Paul’s desire to date Tilly, but near the end of Act 4 it turns out that Paul is smitten by Susan, so when Ethan and Tilly finally get back together in love (a page before the end), Paul murmurs “Uh-oh, the deal.” After a while with Ethan & Tilly lovey-dovey, we turn to Paul, sitting on the settee with Susan, “Do your know about the house deal I have with Ethan?”
—————- TOPPER 4: Susan responds, “I heard and I’m game. And there’s a roller skate deal.” [not nearly as funny as Joe E. Brown at the end of SOME LIKE IT HOT, saying, “Nobody’s perfect.”]— INCOMPATIBLES 2: Sophie (age 11) and her Aunt Tilly are adventurous dreamers as opposed to Tilly’s sis (Sophie’s mother) and mom, who are serious, realistic, and conventional.
———- p2: Sophie’s grandmother (Tilly’s mother) suggests Sophie takes after Tilly – drawing “yikes” expressions (age 11) as opposed to her realistic parents and grandmother telling her she won’t get a white Christmas in LA, “Aunt Tilly'll make it happen!”— INCOMPATIBLES 3: While protags Tilly and Ethan shared heart-break experiences and a love of their scout experiences, they are very different in certain respects, which plays off of each other. They argue about the meaning of the Wizard of Oz – she points to the adventure, he says all Dorothy wanted was to go home, etc.
5. EMBARRASSMENT
— When Tilly takes Ethan to meet Susan she’s in the hot spring pool, Susan looks down at her bathing suit, a bit embarrassed, saying, “Hi, Ethan. Glad you’re keeping Tilly company. I’m not very presentable.” Ethan responds, “You’re fine. In California beach country that’s formalwear.”
———- TOPPER: Susan then suggests that they come and have a dip in the pool, to which he responds (embarrassed due to not wanting to get to close to Tilly because he plans to propose to another), “I didn't bring my, uh, California formalwear.” [And that might be the risque limit for Hallmark]
— ETHAN RETURNS (Act 4). Ethan appears at the kids’ snow event and watches Sophie and others from a distant. He goes to congratulate her when she places in a contest. Sophie and Tilly’s family are happy to see him, but not Tilly, who considers him a personal non grata for hurting her. She steps back.
———-TOPPER 1: Paul is not there, but arrives shortly, and when he sees Ethan he growls, “You can’t keep away from her [meaning Tilly].” They look at Paul. Sophie is distressed, Ethan crushed, Susan unhappy. Paul notes her reaction, making him feel ashamed.
———-TOPPER 2: Ethan notes Paul is standing close to Susan, as if they are a couple. Ethan says, “So Paul, how’s it going with Tilly?” Paul looks at Susan, nervous, unable to speak. She looks at him, waiting for the answer she would like. Ethan continues, “I’m not interfering. I have a place to stay. So… Tilly’s yours if she’ll have you.” Ethan gives Tilly a quick smile. She looks down. Before there can be any more talk Ethan walks away. [Note, Ethan probably should have said he just came back to apologize, whence we later get, “I’m Big Foot… in my mouth.”
— THE FINAL KISS. Ethan being a shy, discreet person, has herded Tilly out of view of her family and Paul and Susan to kiss her. Sophie rushes over, sees them and announces to the group, “They’re kissing.”6. COMEDIC TRAGEDY
—THE INTERROGATION: Near the end of Act 1, Ethan goes with Paul to meet Tilly’s family, which scares Paul stiff and Ethan has to speak for him… which ends up the family likes Ethan more than Paul, which is the last thing Ethan wanted.
— End of Act 3, this is more tragic than funny, Tilly overhears Ethan speaking to Paul and comes to realize Paul is the guy her family AND ETHAN, were setting her up with. She misinterprets that Ethan was only playing her for his friend.
— All Ethan ever wanted was a family and Paul and Tilly are the closest he has to one, so when he hurts Paul and Tilly by not being truthful with them (afraid he’ll lose them), he is bereft, but of his own doing. More sad than funny, but some of the quips surrounding this fall out are a bit funny.
— Paul is with Susan (into her, but too shy to express it) when Ethan calls Susan to say he messed up again and is returning to L.A. Paul hears Susan’s end and knows it’s Ethan. He takes the phone. [note: a setup in Act 1 in which Ethan warns Paul against Tilly, “Find a nice daisy here. Don’t look for-for orchids. Or trouble.”] PAUL: “Paul here, Ethan. Just-just you stay away from my daisy.” Susan scrunches her face in confusion. ETHAN: “Not into your daisy, Bro. But since the orchid ship has sailed, I’m sailing back to L.A.” PAUL: “Whatever. Free country.” Paul ends the call and hands the cell back to Susan. ———- TOPPER: SUSAN: “Who is Daisy?” PAUL: “I, uh, well, uh, sometimes give people nicknames. It’s you, Susan.” She smiles broadly. Paul’s worry turns happy. -
Lesson 7: Incongruent Situations
What I learned from this is a technique to add comedy to a screenplay. These need more development and it would be good to work through this process again to find even more.
1. Misinterpretation
Sara and Austin’s Meet Cute
Sara (into phone)
I’ve been thinking about you and our appointment all morning. Seriously, I can’t wait to get my hands on you. This is going to make my day. And yours too! I promise.Sara scans the counter, still just one barista.
Sara
I know it’s big, but I’m more than capable of handling large (clears her throat) ventures. You’re not backing out now?Austin enters, putting on an apron. Fussing with things on the counter.
Sara
We’ll attack this head-on. No more hesitation. With my help, you can take control and make things happen. (Sara listens to her phone) This is the moment we’ve been preparing for. We’ve got all the tools we need. Once I get there with my help you’ll dive in and get it done. No more excuses. You’ve paid me already, let me do my job.Austin
What can I…Sara
You. You’re late. That’s why I’ve been in line so long. I might be late for my appointment with a very important client.
(into phone) I’ll be right there. Don’t back off, you need to keep this momentum.
(to Austin) I need a skinny latte. And it seems like you need to learn some organizational skills. Apparently, you’re chronically late for work.Austin
This is not my real work.Sara
How many times have I heard that. This is some sort of blow off job.Austin
I make a great skinny latte.Sara
And yet you aren’t actually making one.Austin
You seem kind of strict.Sara
That’s what I’m paid to be.Austin
Sounds, interesting.Sara
It is, it truly fascinates me. Coffee.Austin
(as he makes her coffee)
So you charge by the hour?Sara
Usually by the job. The client and I discuss his or her specific desires, we set up regular meetings. It’s important that both parties be clear about what works, parameters you might say. On my end, that understanding help me assist the client deeper issues that are blocking them from achieving his or her goals.Austin
So chicks too?Sara
Of course, why not? Everyone deserves help and guidance.Austin
Seems like you could use some extra energy today so double shot, on me.Sara
Thank you. That’s very sweet, but you still need to learn to be on time for important things.2. Comedic surprise
When Sara is introduced to her first reality show client it’s Austin. Austin finds out she’s a productivity expert.3. Wildly Inappropriate Response
He’ll do an entire art series around this type of stuff that is actually successful.
Host a "Procrastination Workshop" where they teach people creative ways to put off tasks and embrace their inner chaos.
Create a piece of art out of office supplies like sticky notes, paper clips, and coffee cups, proudly displaying it as a tribute to their “unconventional workspace.”
Deliberately ignore deadlines while hosting an extravagant “Inspiration Party” where guests do nothing but brainstorm and daydream.
Set up a “Distraction Station” in their studio with all kinds of quirky gadgets and toys, celebrating every time they get sidetracked.
Wear a “Chaos Is My Muse” T-shirt and insist on discussing how unstructured, spontaneous work is the true path to artistic greatness.
"I’d love to be more productive, but I’m too busy waiting for inspiration to strike. It’s very unreliable, you know."
"I appreciate the advice, but I work best in chaos. It's like organized messiness is my muse."
"Productivity is great and all, but sometimes the best ideas come when I’m completely off-track."
"I’ve found that my creative process thrives on spontaneity. Structure just gets in the way of my muse."
"Being productive sounds nice, but I prefer to let the art take its own course, even if it means a little procrastination."
4. Forced union of incompatible
Sara resists Austin as her client – he was late to his job and not a serious person. Conner the producer insists.
Austin has no interest in getting help from a productivity expert but his friend and gallery owner forces him, or she’ll drop him.5. Embarrassment
When Sara enters Austin’ studio to talk about the show. A cameraman accompanies her. Some paint gets on her blouse. Austin tries to dab it off (her breast) she gets offended, steps back. Ends up pressing against a painting, get paint on more of her clothes. She spins around trying to see where it is on her back and butt. As she spins she trips into a paint tray. Now she’s really a mess. Austin gets her one of his shirts to change into. She changes comes out holding her blouse. This is silk! This stain has to be removed. Austin takes the blouse, grabs scissors, cuts out the stain, slaps it onto a painting. She’s horrified and angry, he’s happy he thinks it makes the painting. Asks to use her other clothes the same way.6. Comedic Tragedy
They are being filmed or live and everything is falling apart – maybe Austin is resisting her techniques. Sara keeps trying to put a positive spin on things but nothing is working correctly.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 3 weeks ago by Terrie Shaft.
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This reply was modified 8 months, 3 weeks ago by
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Joy Geldard-Smith’s Comedy Situations
What I learned doing this assignment is… there’s a framework for comedy, and if I keep that in mind, I can build a good amount of comedy into my script without too much trouble. I love the way that Toppers elevate the comedy, so I’ll be thinking of ways I can do that for every single comedy situation.
1. Misinterpretation
– He initially misinterprets her replacing his nieces ice cream?
– I’ll also use the niece to misinterpret what the adults are doing, with her observations sometimes being right, even if the adults don’t realize it.2. Comedic Surprise
– I’ll use this with the niece as she learns how to interact with her Uncle’s new friend.
– There’s also potential for it with how they work with each other, especially because of her secret Marhsall identity.3. Wildly Inappropriate Response
– I think she is the best for this – she’s a Marshall, so everything and everyone she comes into contact with can potentially be a threat.
– He might also have this reaction with his niece – parents eventually learn to chill out around their kids, but when it’s not your child, you’re on higher alert.4. Forced union of incompatibles
– This is the whole movie: they have to work together to save Christmas for the children of Monterey.4. Embarrassment
– There’s going to be lots of this, although I haven’t completely worked out how yet. This will probably be mostly linked to their love story and the situations they find themselves in. In close quarters in the ice cream truck, and I’ll add in some other compromising situations for them, especially when their bosses are nearby.6. Comedic tragedy
– I don’t think I can fit this one in, though I’ll keep it in mind when I’m working on my structure and see if anything springs to mind.-
This reply was modified 8 months ago by Joy Smith.
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