I have to write a movie/tv script satirizing/parodying gender stereotypes as they are seen in western media today. It has to have one female and male gender stereotype but the twist is we must satirize the gender stereotypes in our script. Could you please explain this to me more clearly how I do this? Gr. 9
Here are some definitions of satire and parody:
http://www.answers.com/satire
http://www.answers.com/parody
As you can see, they are almost (but not quite) identical. Parodies are usually funnier than satires, but they both are intended to accomplish the same thing: derision of the topic, enough to make people laugh, but realize the sad truth behind the laughter.
What you want to do is to write a story including your characters (at least one male and one female) in which you make people laugh at the characters -- and then think, "Oh, wow, why am I laughing? It's so true!"
Here are some examples of parody:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parody#Examples
http://grammar.about.com/od/pq/g/parodyterm.htm
And some examples of satire:
http://www.google.com/search?q=satire+examples&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SUNA
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Could you give me an example of a stereotype satire, this sort of confuses me as well. Thanks
Sure! Writing a movie or TV script that satirizes or parodies gender stereotypes can be a fun and creative way to address social issues in a lighthearted manner. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Identify the gender stereotypes: Begin by understanding the common stereotypes associated with both males and females in western media today. These stereotypes can revolve around appearance, behavior, roles, and expectations. For example, females are often portrayed as overly emotional or dependent, while males are portrayed as strong and dominant.
2. Choose two stereotypes: Select one female and one male stereotype that you want to satirize or parody in your script. It could be a stereotype that you find particularly exaggerated, unfair, or misleading. This will form the basis of your satirical approach.
3. Understand the essence of satire: Satire involves using humor, wit, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or ridicule certain aspects of society. The goal is to highlight the flaws or absurdity of a given stereotype while encouraging the audience to question and challenge these stereotypes.
4. Create your characters and story: Develop interesting and well-rounded characters that embody the chosen stereotypes. However, give them unexpected traits or behaviors that go against the stereotypical norms. This twist will help subvert the audience's expectations and make them think critically about gender roles and expectations.
5. Use humor and irony: Utilize humor and irony throughout your script to poke fun at the stereotypes. You can do this through clever dialogue, situational comedy, or exaggerated scenarios. Remember, the intention is to entertain while challenging societal norms, so be sure to strike a balance between comedy and underlying social commentary.
6. Subvert gender expectations: Challenge the stereotypes by showing characters breaking free from the usual expectations placed on their gender. Have the female character challenge the notion of being overly emotional by being calm and composed, or the male character question the idea of being dominant by being more sensitive or nurturing. This can be done by creating conflicts or plot points that defy the stereotypes in clever and unexpected ways.
7. Use dialogue and interactions: Craft dialogues and interactions between characters that highlight the absurdity or contradiction in the stereotypes. This can involve characters questioning these stereotypes directly, making sarcastic remarks, or pointing out their flaws.
8. Address the bigger picture: In addition to satirizing gender stereotypes, try to address the underlying issues and consequences that these stereotypes can have on individuals and society. You can do this subtly through character development or use certain plot points to drive home the message of questioning and dismantling gender expectations.
Remember, while satire allows you to challenge stereotypes, it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect. Make sure to always prioritize inclusivity and avoid reinforcing any harmful stereotypes inadvertently. Good luck with your script!