TV: Genre Analysis - British Sit-Com

Opening Sequence - 'Peep Show'

The Peep Show's main quirk and unique selling point comes from the fact that the camera is used in an unconventional and creative; opting to go with almost eery single shot in POV. The title sequence reflects this by utilising POV shots itself as well as a graphic overlay in the form of an eye. Furthermore, the symbol changes colours back and forth between red and black - not only does this signify the alternating shift in perspective between the characters, it also hints at the comedic nature of the contrast and conflict of such opposing characters living together. Whilst the camera work is unconventional in its persistent and heavy use of POV shots, the themes and character archetypes of the show are conventional; particularly of British Sitcoms. Mark and Jeremy both play social failures, Mark being a stickler for the rules yet not progressing in life whereas Jeremy is a hothead, cocky musician with failed dreams. However, instead of looking down upon these characters we are encouraged to identify with and to a degree partake in their awkwardness as social failures - this is encouraged through the use of technical codes such Voice Over as well as the notable use of POV shots. Arguably, this appeals to British ideals, British media in general is awkward to a comedic degree regarding sex and drugs.


is that a lot of the shots in the film come from the point of view of characters. This is represented visually through the use of both POV shots as well as a graphic overlay that is both a symbol of an eye (to represent POV shots). The graphic overlay also changes colours to represent the differences between characters POV.