Annie Hall
The comedy Annie Hall is not only funny because of the characters and dialogue, but for its distinct splicing of the screen. In several scenes throughout the film, the screen is split in two, or there are two conversations occurring at the same time. In the scene where Annie and Alvy first meet each other, there are subtitles at the bottom of the screen where you see what they are thinking, which is very different than the dialogue. This has a comedic effect because it is relatable. Everyone has conversations with themselves in their head that criticizes things they say or do, although we usually never hear them from other people. It makes the characters vulnerable, because we hear their inner thoughts. In another scene, the screen is split in two and we see Annie in her therapist's office and Alvy in his therapist's office. Their therapists are asking similar questions and Annie and Alvy have very different responses. This has a comedic effect because they have very different views on their love life.
Another funny element in the movie is the use of stereotypes. Alvy often makes fun of himself for being Jewish, and even dresses as an orthodox jew in one scene. New York City and Los Angeles are also stereotyped to be like characters. NYC is just like Alvye; depressive, death-obsessed, and dark, while LA is more like Annie; carefree and relaxed. What other stereotypes did you notice throughout the film, and why do you think they had a comedic effect?
Great work Blair. You have discussed aspects of the film that others have not reflected on, so good for you! The stereotypes that stand out to me are the ones you discuss but also the stereotypical views of NYC and CA.
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