3. Genre
Explain what genre is and say what genre the programme “Friends” is. Give other examples of American situation comedies and British Situation comedies such as only Fools and horses.
Now say why this genre is and of programme is popular with the public and why people enjoy comedies so much. Explain why “Friends” is so popular with the public.
“Friends” is a situation comedy and this is a popular genre of television programme. Other examples of situation comedies are…
3. The opening titles Two paragraphs
Explain why the opening titles of a programme are important- they need to grab iur attention if we’re going to watch the programme. How do the opening titles of “Friends” grab our attention? Also say a little bit about the opening to only Fools and Horses.
Mention the short, amusing clips that we see in “Friends” (like Monica sitting in the fridge, Joey and Chandler running with all the baby equipment), shots of New York and the canned laughter (and how it encourages you to laugh as well). Say that this particular episode used famous stars such as Julia Roberts in the opening.
4. The theme song
Explain what the theme song is called and who performs it. What sort of programme do we expect after hearing the song what can you say about the song? Is it an uplifting and a happy feel-good song? Is it written in a major key? What effect does this have? State that the music complements the images that we see and say whether the credits are as effective when watched with no music. Quote a few of the lyrics to support your points.
The theme song to “Friends” is called “I’ll Be There For You’ by the pop group the Rembrandts. After hearing the song, we expect…
5. The cast and the titles
Say something about the cast of the show. Are they attractive or stylish? Do they look appealing to the audience? Give examples of the appealing things they do in opening titles that make you want to continue watching. Mention the italic writing that are used for the titles. Say this looks more like handwriting and more familiar, as if it was writtin by one of your own friends.
We see the cast of the show during the opening titles. They are… The italic writing used for the titles is important. It looks as if it was written by…
Conclusion
Recap on the importance of opening sequences in TV and films. Although they are only under a minute, lots of thought and preparation go into them.
Give your own opinion on “Friends”’ explain why you like or dislike it. If you don’t like it, explain why others do.
Opening titles to TV programmes and films are important. This is because…