Just Like on TV: Community, the Ultimate Postmodern Sitcom - Phil Dyas

"Just Like on TV: Community, the Ultimate Postmodern Sitcom"

Phil Dyas

• I chose this article as it is closely linked to the research essay I plan to do on the evolution of the sitcom genre.
• The article is about the theories of postmodernism and the elements of postmodernity found in sitcoms.

'Even the characters themselves sometimes appear to be aware of the show's existence.'

• I agree with this as in the sitcom Fuller House (2016 - present), the characters all turn around to the audience after saying 'Well, Michelle sends her love, but she's busy in New York running her fashion empire' in reference to the absence of the Olsen twins who shared the role of Michelle Tanner in the original show Full House (1987-1995). During this scene the characters are aware of the shows existence and break the fourth wall.

'there are many common conventions which constantly remind the audience that what they are watching isn't 'real'.'

• I agree with this as most sitcoms use non-diegetic music and laughter during their episodes. Also, some sitcoms use montages which remind the audience that what they are watching isn't real as they show a lot of things happening over a few minutes.

Overall...

I agree with the article as it mentions typical conventions of sitcoms that are still seen in sitcoms today and it mentions how the characters are aware of the show which is true in many sitcoms such as Fuller House where the characters sometimes look out to the audience.