Melodrama

Research Task:

Kate Wigley

MELODRAMAS

Definition:● A melodrama is a dramatic piece with exaggerated characters and exciting events.

● It is intended to appeal to the emotions of the audience.

● A drama, such as a play, film, or television programme, characterized by exaggerated emotions, stereotypical characters, and interpersonal conflicts.

Examples include:

HOLLYOAKSDOWNTON ABBEY

DAYS OF OUR LIVES

NEIGHBOURS

HOME AND AWAY

Origins:● The term originated from the 19th century from the French word - Melodrame

● The word ‘Melo’ means music in Greek

● The word ‘Drame’ is French for drama

● Melodrama is a combination of spoken pieces and short pieces of music

● In ancient Greece, they used to mime

STEREOTYPES

THE ‘HUNK’

‘TART’ WITH A HEART

VILLAGE BULLY

DAMSEL IN DISTRESS

THE LOVEABLE ROGUE

THE GOSSIP

THE GANGSTER

Storylines:● CATHARSIS storylines are when the viewer goes through the same emotions as the storyline

In this scene of ‘Days of our Lives’ (Watch from 6:00) the high pitched dissonance allows the viewer to be shocked and feel the same emotions which the characters do.

Storylines:● CATHARSIS storylines are when the viewer goes through the same emotions as the storyline

In this scene of ‘Hollyoaks’ the director wants the viewer to react in the same way that the characters do. For example: when Riley gets shot and Mitzeee starts to cry, the viewers may also cry.

Storylines:● ESCAPISM storylines are when the viewer needs to escape from daily woes to something that wouldn’t usually happen in real life

In this trailer from ‘Hollyoaks’ the expensive location and costumes draw the reader in to wonder what is happening. This entices them to watch it throughout the week.

StorylinesStorylines::● REALISM storylines are when the characters are dressed in expensive clothes so that the viewer aspires to be like them

DodgerMitzeee Mercedes