Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I spotted this book somewhere and figured "why not"?
I was skeptical that comedy writing could be taught through a book.
I was wrong. Mike Bent does an excellent job of it.
Bent says he started performing at a comedy club when he was 16. He now teaches courses in "writing sketch and standup comedy" at Boston's Emerson College. His website suggests that he specializes these days in comedy and magic for children.
His book is surprisingly helpful, progressing in a step-by-step fashion from a cursory discussion of what is "comedy" to detailed instructions on the value of keeping notebooks, setting up the audience for a punch line, the use of surprise, the magic number (there is one, really, according to Bent and his argument is convincing) and onward. He examines the use of lists and questions. He poses an interesting point - what can't you begin with the words "what if"? A number of chapters are devoted to the various forms of comedy: stand-up (performing and writing for others), parody and satire, sitcoms and movies. Bent then covers comedy venues. This becomes a lead in to, in my opinion, one of the most interesting chapters in the book: using YouTube and other online resources as a comedy performance venue.
Like everyone else in the world, I've watched funny bits on YouTube. What didn't fully hit me was just how massive YouTube exposure could be: a fellow named Judson Laipply's "Evolution of Dance" routine has been viewed more than 100 million times. That is incredible. Apparently this success has helped drive Laipply's motivational speaking business. Bent does an excellent job of explaining how to use YouTube, MySpace and other sites for exposure.
The one aspect of the book I could have done without were the interviews with comedians in almost every chapter. In my opinion, they added little to the content of the book. Perhaps - and it is pure speculation on my part - Bent didn't think his own writing could carry the load. He was wrong on that, if that's what he thought: Mike Bent has turned in a very well done on the basics of writing and performing comedy. I don't anticipate becoming a comedy performer in my old age, but consider the book to be worthwhile for its insights into comedy writing. It is really solid in that regard - and the chapter on YouTube is an eye-opener for anyone seeking to promote themselves.
Overall, for aspiring comedians and anyone who has to face the public, a fine book.
Jerry
Click Here to see more reviews about: The Everything Guide to Comedy Writing: From stand-up to sketch - all you need to succeed in the world of comedy (Everything (Language & Writing))
A guy walks into a bar . . . With this guide, aspiring comics will learn to navigate the complex world of comedy writing. Aspiring comics discover how to tap into their natural sense of humor through real-life examples and hands-on skill-building exercises. They?ll learn the best ways to come up with ideas and write comedy that gets laughs?every time! Mike Bent, an accomplished stand-up comedian and teacher, provides readers with the inside scoop on techniques to jump-start their comedy writing careers, including how to:
Develop comic characters for sketches and scenes
Create and polish a standup routine
Write for TV and movies
Use the web to advance comedy careers
Everyone loves a comedian. But breaking into this tough field is no laughing matter. After sharpening their comedy-writing skills with this practical (and funny!) guide, readers will feel comfortable adding humor to everyday situations, and may even take a chance on a dream job in show business!
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