Call-back

Definition

A call-back is a comedic technique where a joke or reference is repeated later in a story, often in a way that highlights its initial setup and creates a humorous connection. This technique not only reinforces humor but also builds audience engagement by creating a sense of familiarity and anticipation, allowing for layered comedic effects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Call-backs are effective in reinforcing humor by reminding the audience of previous jokes or situations, creating a stronger impact.
2. They can be used to build character development, as repeated phrases or situations can reflect a character's personality or growth.
3. Timing is crucial for a successful call-back; the longer the wait between the initial joke and its call-back, the more satisfying it can be when it finally appears.
4. Call-backs can also serve as a means of tying different storylines together, creating cohesion in the narrative.
5. In television writing, using call-backs can enhance viewer retention and encourage audience investment in the characters and plot.

Review Questions

• How does the use of call-backs enhance humor in television writing?
  • Call-backs enhance humor by creating layers of comedic effect through repetition. When an earlier joke is revisited later in the narrative, it triggers recognition and builds on the initial setup, making it funnier. This technique relies on the audience's memory and familiarity with prior events, which amplifies the humor and strengthens their connection to the story.
• In what ways can call-backs contribute to character development in a series?
  • Call-backs can significantly contribute to character development by highlighting recurring traits or behaviors through repeated phrases or situations. When a character's past actions or words are referenced later on, it emphasizes their growth or consistency, adding depth to their personality. This technique allows writers to showcase how characters evolve while maintaining elements of their identity that resonate with viewers.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using call-backs in maintaining audience engagement across multiple episodes.
  • Using call-backs effectively maintains audience engagement by creating anticipation and nostalgia. When viewers recognize references from previous episodes, it fosters a sense of connection and investment in the narrative. The strategic placement of call-backs keeps audiences returning for more, as they look forward to seeing how previous jokes or storylines will resurface, ultimately strengthening their loyalty to the show.

Related terms

Set-up: The initial situation or premise in a joke that prepares the audience for the punchline.

Punchline: The final part of a joke that delivers the unexpected twist or humor, eliciting laughter from the audience.

Running gag: A comedic element that recurs throughout a show, becoming a familiar joke that audiences look forward to.