For my blog post about Framework, I wanted to post about my curent favorite TV show Happy Endings (shameless plug: it's the funniest show on TV, and it's about to get cancelled... everyone, go watch it. Please?)
Before I get started, give the first 2 minutes of this pilot episode a watch ...
After seeing that opening scene and pondering the actual title of the show, Happy Endings, I would like to analyze what the title and initial introduction of this show signify and foreshadow for the long term.
First, let's break down the title. Happy Endings. With the word "happy" in the title, it is obvious that this show is going to be a comedy. And with a full title like Happy Endings we are all probably assuming that, in the end, everything is going to work out for these characters. In my opinion, ABC couldn't have been more clear with their intentions for the show than by flat out telling us that the essential meaning behind the show is that it will be happy-go-lucky.
Now, let's think back to the first two minutes of the show. For something with a presumed "happy ending" it seemed off-putting to lead with one of the main characters being left at the alter. This intriguing introduction to the show, in my opinion, hooks the audience and leaves us asking all the right questions, such as - Who was the man on roller blades? Will the groom ever have a happy ending with his bride? Will the groom find a new bride? How will the friends carry on? and more.
With a somewhat "dark" introduction and the contrast of a very "light" title - I feel as though the audience is easily hooked. In just a few short minutes, viewers are left wanting to find out what exactly will happen to the six main characters and whether the "main" plot of the bride and grooms relationship will indeed end up happy or not.
In my opinion (my hopeful opinion, at least), it seems that a title like Happy Endings provides the ultimate foreshadowing into the grand finale of the show. The title subtly states that even though the main couple split up at the very beginning of the show, by the show's conclusion, everything will end well for the characters.
What do you think?
Emily Barlean
Chapters 7-9
January 29, 2013
Emily, I agree with the points you made. I think the creative team of the show wanted to really give their audience hope in that everyone gets heartbroken in real life but in Hollywood, like in fairy tales of old, the characters who are wronged are rewarded after a period of struggle.
ReplyDelete..........a formula that has definitely worked over time.
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