What is new comedy

New comedy, also known as alternative comedy or indie comedy, is a style of comedy that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s, characterized by its irreverent, offbeat, and often absurdist approach to humor. It is often associated with the alternative comedy movement, which sought to challenge traditional notions of what was considered "funny" and to create a more diverse and inclusive comedy scene.

Some common characteristics of new comedy include:

  1. Anti-establishment humor: New comedians often targeted mainstream culture, politics, and social norms, using humor to critique and subvert them.
  2. Absurdity and surrealism: New comedy often featured absurd, illogical, and surreal elements, such as non-sequiturs, wordplay, and unconventional storytelling.
  3. Intimacy and vulnerability: New comedians often focused on personal, relatable topics, such as relationships, family, and mental health, and used humor to explore their own vulnerabilities and insecurities.
  4. Experimentation with form: New comedy often pushed the boundaries of traditional comedy formats, such as stand-up, sketch, and improv, and incorporated elements of music, dance, and multimedia.
  5. Emphasis on storytelling: New comedians often used storytelling as a way to explore complex themes and emotions, and to create a sense of intimacy and connection with their audience.

Some notable comedians associated with the new comedy movement include:

  1. Chris Morris: Known for his dark, absurdist humor and his work on shows like "The Day Today" and "Brass Eye."
  2. Ricky Gervais: Creator of "The Office" and "Extras," Gervais is known for his cringe-worthy humor and his ability to tackle taboo subjects.
  3. Sacha Baron Cohen: Creator of "Borat" and "Bruno," Baron Cohen is known for his outrageous, over-the-top characters and his ability to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.
  4. Louis C.K.: A stand-up comedian and writer, C.K. is known for his dark, self-deprecating humor and his work on shows like "Louie" and "Parks and Recreation."
  5. Maria Bamford: A stand-up comedian and actress, Bamford is known for her unique, offbeat style and her work on shows like "Lady Dynamite" and "Master of None."

Overall, new comedy is a style of comedy that is characterized by its irreverence, creativity, and willingness to challenge traditional notions of what is considered "funny."