Vocab Terms Flashcards
1
Q
Text
A
A unit of meaning for interpretation and understanding.
2
Q
Medium specificity
A
Differences in media affect storytelling techniques.
3
Q
Literary repertoire
A
Elements like genres and narrative tropes.
4
Q
Paratexts
A
Materials that introduce a text before engagement.
5
Q
Intertexts
A
Texts that reference or represent other texts.
6
Q
Encoding
A
Process of creating meaning in media.
7
Q
Decoding
A
Interpreting and understanding media messages.
8
Q
Dominant reading
A
Interpretation aligned with intended meaning.
9
Q
Negotiated reading
A
Interpretation that blends personal and intended meanings.
10
Q
Oppositional reading
A
Interpretation that contradicts intended meaning.
11
Q
Diegetic elements
A
Sounds and visuals characters perceive.
12
Q
Non-diegetic elements
A
Sounds and visuals for audience only.
13
Q
Narration
A
The method of storytelling in media.
14
Q
Omniscient narration
A
Narrator knows all characters’ thoughts and feelings.
15
Q
Restricted narration
A
Narrator limits knowledge to one character.
16
Q
Objective narration
A
Focuses on observable facts and actions.
17
Q
Subjective narration
A
Explores characters’ internal thoughts and emotions.
18
Q
Beat
A
Smallest unit of character behavior in narrative.
19
Q
Scene
A
A structured segment with beginning, middle, end.
20
Q
Sequence
A
A series of 2-5 scenes leading to a climax.
21
Q
Act
A
A significant change in character’s life conditions.
22
Q
Story structure
A
Includes beginning, middle, and end phases.
23
Q
Catalyst/inciting incident
A
Event that triggers the main action.
24
Q
Central question
A
Key question established early, answered in climax.
25
Climax
The turning point in a story's plot.
26
Unity Arc
Character achieves authentic persona by story's end.
27
Disintegration Arc
Character learns a painful truth, leading to disillusionment.
28
External Change
Visible alteration in a character's state of being.
29
Conflict
Struggle between opposing forces driving the plot.
30
Character vs. Self
Internal conflict with desires or beliefs.
31
Character vs. Supernatural
Struggle against supernatural forces or beings.
32
Character vs. Nature
Struggle against natural forces like storms.
33
Character vs. Man
Struggle against another individual.
34
Character vs. Society
Struggle against societal norms or expectations.
35
Internal Change
Transformation in a character's beliefs or values.
36
Character-driven
Focus on character development and personal growth.
37
Plot-driven
Focus on events and actions driving the narrative.
38
Wants
Conscious goals pushing the protagonist forward.
39
Needs
Unconscious goals driving character's transformation.
40
Character Introductions
Establish tone and relationships in storytelling.
41
Star Text
Public perception of actors influences media interpretation.
42
Character-driven Dialogue
Dialogue that reveals character depth and motivations.
43
Screenplay Components
Elements that structure a screenplay for storytelling.
44
Cause and Effect Pattern
Events linked by causality leading to change.
45
Closure
Resolution of storylines providing audience satisfaction.
46
Objective Narration
Unrestricted storytelling perspective without bias.
47
Opening 10 pages
Crucial for establishing key story elements.
48
Protagonist
Main character driving the narrative forward.
49
Inciting incident
Event triggering the main conflict of the story.
50
Script Coverage
Assessment document for screenplay development decisions.
51
Script Synopsis
Two-page summary of screenplay content and themes.
52
Recommendation Levels
Assessment categories: Pass, Consider, Recommend, etc.
53
Checkbox Grid
Rating system for evaluating screenplay components.
54
Narrative Complexity
Storytelling techniques beyond traditional three-act structure.
55
Thread Structure
Multiple interconnected stories with shared dramatic weight.
56
Story Triangle
Framework for plotting universal story arcs.
57
Anti-Plot
Narrative style that defies traditional storytelling norms.
58
Hollywood Diversity Report
Analysis of representation in film industry.
59
Hero's Journey
Common narrative arc in popular films.
60
Characterization
Development of characters' traits and complexities.
61
Plastic Representation
Superficial diversity lacking depth and meaning.
62
Nonlinear Storytelling
Narrative structure that does not follow chronological order.
63
Intersectional Identities
Multiple identity factors influencing character portrayal.
64
Theme vs Plot
Focus on underlying messages rather than story events.
65
Point of View
Perspective influencing storytelling style and audience connection.
66
Merging Time Concepts
Blending past, present, and future in narratives.
67
Universal Storytelling Norms
Cultural standards shaping perceptions of good storytelling.
68
Character vs Characterization
Distinction between a character's identity and their portrayal.
69
Minimal Exposition
Limited background information provided to the audience.
70
Gender/Color-Blind Casting
Casting without specific identity considerations.
71
Gender/Color-Conscious Casting
Casting that reflects specific identities.
72
Three-Act Structure
A common narrative framework for storytelling.
73
Medium Specificity
Distinct characteristics of media shape storytelling.
74
Narrative
The way stories are told in media.
75
Genre
Categories that classify different types of stories.
76
Bottle Episodes
Episodes confined to one setting or topic.
77
Ad Breaks
Commercial interruptions designed to retain viewers.
78
Classical Film Narrative
Focuses on single protagonist and clear resolution.
79
Television Narrative
Can feature multiple protagonists and unresolved plots.
80
Episodic Television
Self-contained plots with brief exposition.
81
Serialized Television
Ongoing plots requiring episode connections.
82
Conditional Seriality
Mix of episodic and serialized narrative elements.
83
Operational Aesthetic
Narrative structure highlights itself for audience awareness.
84
Disorienting the Viewer
Techniques like time jumps and fantasy sequences.
85
Remediation
One medium representing or borrowing from another.
86
Intertextuality
References between different texts or media.
87
MTM Quality Television
Focus on authorial style and creative freedom.
88
Climaxes in Serialized TV
Create new enigmas for ongoing plots.
89
In Media Res
Starting episodes in the middle of action.
90
Narrative Problematic
Central questions or conflicts driving the story.
91
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Characters acknowledge the audience directly.
92
Demographics in Television
Target audience characteristics influencing content.
93
Minimizing the movie
Adapting films for streaming platforms.
94
Classical paradigm
Framework with 7 main storytelling elements.
95
Exposition
Introduction of setting and characters in a story.
96
Motivation
Drives the protagonist's actions and desires.
97
Blocking force
Antagonist that obstructs the protagonist's goals.
98
Chain reactions
Events cause subsequent actions in storytelling.
99
Climax
Peak of action and tension in a narrative.
100
Resolution
Conclusion providing closure to the audience.
101
Episodic
Series with multiple protagonists and varied stories.
102
Motivation in episodic
Multiple desires from different characters drive episodes.
103
Serials
Continuing stories requiring sequential viewing.
104
Character pasts
Characters' histories influence current narratives.
105
Cliffhangers
Tension-building endings before commercial breaks.
106
Transmedia storytelling
Expanding narratives across multiple platforms.
107
Binge-watching
Viewing multiple episodes in one sitting.
108
Narrative enigmas
Multiple simultaneous stories creating suspense.
109
Character composition
Framework for developing complex TV characters.
110
Melody and harmony
Character growth compared to musical elements.
111
Commercial breaks
Interruptions that can alter narrative structure.
112
TV vs. movies
Differences in climax and resolution styles.
113
Ongoing desires
Characters' continual motivations throughout a series.
114
Audience engagement
How viewers relate to characters and stories.
115
Interactive content
Engagement through websites or apps related to shows.
116
Character Composition
The structure and traits defining a character.
117
Internal Melodies
Backstory and inner workings of characters.
118
External Melodies
Visible actions and developments of characters.
119
Harmony and Dissonance
Balance between character goals and actions.
120
12 Melodies
Framework of character development across episodes.
121
Ambiguous Ending
Unclear resolution for a character's journey.
122
Character Journey
The progression and evolution of a character.
123
Serialized Narrative
Storytelling with continuous plot across episodes.
124
Episodic Narrative
Self-contained stories in each episode.
125
Slippage
Blurring lines between genres or narrative styles.
126
Flow in TV
Planned programming to keep viewers engaged.
127
Character Arcs
Development trajectory of a character over time.
128
Visiting Characters
Temporary characters that enhance the storyline.
129
Three-Dimensional Characters
Complex characters with depth in traits.
130
Comedy vs. Drama
Differences in tone and narrative structure.
131
Finite Series
Shows with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
132
Infinite Series
Shows exploring themes without a central conclusion.
133
Franchise Characters
Standalone characters within a larger universe.
134
Character Traits
Defined characteristics related to personality and behavior.
135
Audience Familiarity
Recognizable traits that resonate with viewers.
136
Originality in Characters
Unique traits that differentiate characters from others.
137
Character Consistency
Maintaining established traits while allowing growth.
138
Character Types
Common archetypes found in sitcoms.
139
Authenticity
Characters should feel believable and well-rounded.
140
Dramatic Writing
Analyzing characters through physiology, sociology, psychology.
141
Physiology
Character's physical attributes like height and appearance.
142
Sociology
Character's background, beliefs, and social standing.
143
Psychology
Character's internal traits like hopes and fears.
144
Incongruity
Mismatch between traits that creates humor.
145
Unexpected Traits
Surprising characteristics in comedic situations.
146
Contrast
Discrepancy between personality and environment.
147
Character Interaction
How personalities influence comedic dynamics.
148
Familiar Types
Common archetypes provide humor foundation.
149
Character Arcs
Journeys of growth and change in characters.
150
Cyclical Arcs
Characters revert to old habits after episodes.
151
Reset Button
Characters return to core traits each episode.
152
Character Types
Recurring archetypes that define sitcom roles.
153
Supportive Parent
Character who holds the family together.
154
Idiot Servant
Character appears foolish but offers wisdom.
155
Idiot Idiot
Lovable but unintelligent character archetype.
156
Operator
Scheming character who creates conflict.
157
Mentor
Character providing wisdom and guidance.
158
Confidant
Character who listens and offers advice.
159
The Irritant
Character who annoys others consistently.
160
Romantic Interest
Character involved in a love subplot.
161
The Critic
Character offering witty observations and remarks.
162
Visiting Characters
Secondary characters that enhance sitcom dynamics.
163
Supportive Parent
Characters who provide emotional support and guidance.
164
Idiot Savant
Character with exceptional skill but limited social awareness.
165
Idiot Idiot
Characters who are comically inept or foolish.
166
Clown
Characters who provide humor through silly antics.
167
Operator
Manipulative characters who control situations for their benefit.
168
Mentor
Wise characters who guide and teach others.
169
Confidant
Character trusted with secrets and personal thoughts.
170
Irritant
Characters who annoy or provoke others frequently.
171
Romantic Interest
Character involved in a love storyline with another.
172
Critic
Characters who provide negative feedback or commentary.
173
Visiting Characters
New characters that introduce fresh dynamics to stories.
174
Opponents/Antagonists
Characters who create conflict and challenge protagonists.
175
Conflict
The driving force that propels a story forward.
176
Romantic Rival
Character competing for affection in a love triangle.
177
Well-Intentioned Opponent
Character whose good intentions lead to chaos.
178
Character Arc
A character's emotional growth throughout a story.
179
Story Arc
A plotline developed over multiple episodes.
180
Emotional Problems
Issues characters face that resonate with viewers.
181
Incongruities
Differences between characters and their environments creating tension.
182
Character Dynamics
Interactions and relationships between different characters.
183
Wild Cards
Unexpected characters that introduce conflict and humor.
184
Core Cast
Main characters who drive the story forward.
185
Character Integration
How new characters are woven into existing narratives.
186
Character Types
Foundation of sitcoms; defines relationships and dynamics.
187
Wild Cards
Visiting characters that introduce conflict and humor.
188
Situational Comedy
Comedy based on characters in specific situations.
189
Multi-Camera
Filming style using multiple cameras for live audience.
190
Single-Camera
Filming style resembling movies, more cinematic.
191
Editing Techniques
Single camera uses faster pace, jump cuts.
192
Laugh Track
Audio cue indicating when to laugh; often criticized.
193
Awkward Humor
Comedy relying on uncomfortable silence, not laugh tracks.
194
Streaming Impact
Single camera sitcoms gained popularity on streaming platforms.
195
Binge-Watching
Viewing multiple episodes in one sitting, common on streaming.
196
Niche Shows
Unique or experimental series thriving on streaming services.
197
Creative Freedom
Less restrictions allow for diverse storytelling in sitcoms.
198
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Example of evolving sitcoms with unpredictable humor.
199
Arrested Development
Single camera sitcom that found success over time.
200
Two and a Half Men
Example of traditional multi-camera sitcom with laugh track.
201
Running Gags
Recurrent jokes that develop over time in single camera.
202
Master of None
Show blending drama and comedy with unique structure.
203
Bojack Horseman
Heavy material series thriving on streaming, not network.
204
The Neighborhood
Example of multi-camera sitcom adapting to modern tastes.
205
Cultural Shift
Stylistic choices in sitcoms reflect broader societal changes.
206
Viewer Preference
Individual tastes dictate preference for single or multi-camera.
207
Future of Sitcoms
Uncertain; both styles may continue to coexist.
208
Single-Camera Sitcoms
Modern sitcoms with cinematic style and narrative complexity.
209
Multi-Camera Sitcoms
Traditional sitcoms with formulaic structure and laugh tracks.
210
Narrative Complexity
In-depth exploration of themes and character development.
211
Audience Fragmentation
Diverse audience tastes leading to specialized programming.
212
Cinematography
Sophisticated camera work in single-camera sitcoms.
213
Sound Design
Naturalistic audio creating immersive sitcom experiences.
214
Lighting Techniques
Realistic lighting enhancing single-camera sitcom atmosphere.
215
Editing Style
Dynamic editing with quick cuts and flashbacks.
216
Laugh Tracks
Pre-recorded audience laughter used in multi-camera sitcoms.
217
Aesthetic Differences
Visual and stylistic contrasts between sitcom formats.
218
Character Development
Nuanced portrayal of characters in single-camera sitcoms.
219
Audience Appeal
Targeting sophisticated viewers with diverse sitcom options.
220
Economic Programming
Financial motivations behind sitcom production choices.
221
Voice-Over Narration
Used in single-camera sitcoms for ironic commentary.
222
Cinematic Experience
Visual engagement through dynamic shot compositions.
223
Specialized Programming
Content tailored for specific audience demographics.
224
Convergence Technologies
New media elevating single-camera sitcom popularity.
225
Slow Laugh
Audience response characterized by delayed laughter.
226
Artistic Value
Aesthetic quality of upgraded sitcom formats.
227
Traditional Conventions
Established norms in multi-camera sitcom production.
228
Modern Mind
Contemporary audience sensibilities influencing sitcom evolution.
229
Diverse Range
Variety of sitcom formats catering to different tastes.
230
Single-camera sitcom
Respects audience's intellect and humor.
231
Sitcom archetypes
Character types defining sitcom roles and dynamics.
232
The innocent
Character type exemplified by The Brady Bunch.
233
The scoundrel
Character type seen in Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
234
The fool
Character type represented by I Love Lucy.
235
Logical smart one
Character archetype known for intelligence.
236
Lovable loser
Character archetype often endearing despite failures.
237
Neurotic
Character archetype marked by anxiety and overthinking.
238
Dumb one
Character archetype characterized by lack of intelligence.
239
Bitch/bastard
Character archetype often antagonistic or abrasive.
240
Womanizer/manizer
Character archetype focused on romantic conquests.
241
Materialistic one
Character archetype driven by possessions and wealth.
242
Lives in their own world
Character archetype detached from reality.
243
Supportive parent
Grounding character type providing emotional stability.
244
Idiot Savant
Character type with unique skills but lacks common sense.
245
Idiot Idiot
Character type using physical humor excessively.
246
The critic
Character type often isolated due to judgment.
247
The clown
Character type intentionally humorous, not necessarily foolish.
248
The operator
Character type scheming for personal gain.
249
The mentor
Character type providing wisdom and guidance.
250
The confidant
Supporting character offering advice and support.
251
The irritant
Character type causing frustration for others.
252
The romantic interest
Character type complicating main character's relationships.
253
Character mix
Diverse characters generating comedic interactions.
254
Conflict in comedy
Essential element driving humor and character dynamics.
