The Spoof

1. The Spoof A presentation by Tom and Erin

2. “Spoof” • Films that make fun of other films/genres • There is no such thing as an original spoof • magnify familiar roles from whatever authentic genre is being spoofed • Example: Tom Cruise from “Top Gun” is risk taking and masculine. His spoof alternative, Charlie Sheen in “Hot Shots” and “Hot Shots: Part Deux,” takes those characteristics to the extreme (overly masculine and unrealistic risk taking).

3. Examples

4. Agents of Spoof • Director/producer: Sam Raimi and Mel Brooks, the Wayans Brothers • Actors: Leslie Nielson, Charlie Sheen, Mel Brooks, Gene Wilder, Rick Moranis, etc.

5. Audience Analysis • Spoofs attract corny people vs. film connoisseurs • Short box office life • Huge cult following and rental sales • People who just want to laugh • Audience values/assumptions vary but this is generally true: • nothing is sacred or off limits; “Life of Brian” spoofs Jesus • change is bad; keep plot, characters and settings familiar • Social—you can watch spoof with friends and not pay attention to the movie

6. Spoof As An Art • Cheesy lines • Predictable plot, setting and characterization • Verbatim lines/quotes/events from authentic films • Fly in the face of film watching social mores/codes • Simple, no real critical thinking energy required • Symbiotic relationship to authentic genres • Usually low budget, however that may be changing