Tzvetan Todorov
Equilibrium
The opening scene begins with the characters in the home, one using a hookah pipe. Two of them walk in as they have just come back form their own gig. The two characters then drive of to a further location, negatively discussing the success of their gig. The content of the situation in this first scene is quite realistic and normal, replicating the Sitcom codes and conventions. However, the way in which the characters portray the surroundings and costumes make it seem slightly unrealistic for a lot of society today.
Disruption
Following the characters terrible gig, with people throwing rubbish into their house, the two characters head to Black Lake. The characters turn up at a pub and are told to go fishing. Vince then is very successful when catching the fish, unlike his friend. The friend then tells Vince to go back to the pub and leave him to fish by himself. Vince then begins to tell a ghost story and states "Black Lake". The customers and pub staff then tell Vince that there is a "ghost" called "Old Gregg" that comes out when the moon is out on the Lake.
Recognition of Disruption
Howard is Abducted by "Old Gregg" while out fishing on "Black Lake" by himself.
Attempt to Repair
Vince rings up his friend explaining that Howard has been abducted by a sea monster. He therefore get a submarine into the Lake with Vince and they begin to search for Howard.
New/Return equilibrium
Howard is rescued by Vince and his fiend in the submarine They are then seen performing the pub, which turns into a successful gig. They then drive home discussing their success, however "Old Gregg" is seen on the top of the car.
Vladmir Propp
Hero-Naboo
Villain-Old Gregg
Princess-Howard
Donor-Vince
Helper-Vince
False Hero-Vince
Princess' father-The barman
Dispatcher-The pub customer
Roland Barthes
Action
By Howard telling Vince to go back to the pub, so he can fish by himself in the dark, instantly creates a mysterious and eerie atmosphere. This is then emphasiesd through the ghost story. The audience then feel that there at an event about to happen that will affect Howard, which is to do with the story.
Enigma
-What happened to the man who survived being abducted by Old Gregg?
-Why does Naboo have a submarine casually waiting around to be used?
-Why are the Naboo, Vince and Howard wearing their specific costumes at the beginning?
Semic
Through the characters strange and vibrant costumes we learn that they are strange characters who create comedy. Also, the pub creates quite a dominating atmosphere, while also creating an eerie mood due to the stories.
Symbolic
The idea of the Lake where the characters fish at being called "Black Lake" instantly connotates with death and darkness, suggesting that maybe something terrible will happen. This is then emphasised through the fishing scene as it is dark and eerie, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Also, "Old Gregg" is seen as the villain in this episode, however the use of his strange costume makeup and personality creates a strong comedy about his character which then links in with the Sitcom genre at it is not supposed to be serious.
Cultural
The common stereotypes of a Situation Comedy are relevant situations that are turned to make funny. This stereotype is shown through this episode as Howard is abducted by Old Gregg. In society this incident would be seen as very serious, however it is shown through the comedy of Old Gregg's character and the way in which all the characters act.
No comments:
Post a Comment