Arts >> Movies & TV >> Screen Acting

How To Ad-Lib & Make a Script Funny

Ad-libbing, also known as improvising, can add unexpected laughs to a script. Ad-libbing is when you create something on the spot, something that wasn't previously scripted. This can add new possibilities and ideas to a script and push the humor level even higher. Good ad-libbing can make for an even funnier piece, while bad ad-libbing can slow things down or get things off track. That's why it's important to follow some basic guidelines to ensure your ad-libbing makes a script funnier.

Instructions

    • 1

      Add information to a piece of dialogue. This expands what's happening and can lead to further ideas for a character and scene. For example, if one character's line is "That's a nice hat you have," your character's line might be, "Thanks, I love it too." A funny ad-lib for your character could be, "But gee, I feel bad that I stole it from that kid over there." This adds information to a scene and opens it up to further possibilities.

    • 2

      Ad-lib specific dialogue. Jokes are often funny because they're so specific. While, "She's just really into tacos" might be funny, "She's really into tacos with 3 pounds of lettuce" is funnier, because it's more specific.

    • 3

      Keep ad-libs brief. A line or two of dialogue is enough. Ad-libbing a long speech throws things off.

    • 4

      Play along with how the other actors ad-lib. This creates a team atmosphere and leads to funnier combinations. Denying what someone says throws ad-libbing off track. For example, if a character says, "I'm president of the United States," and you say, "No, you're not. You're a minor league umpire," while that might be funny, it can throw ad-libbing off track. If you'd like to follow a similar theme, instead say, "And to think, just four years ago you were a minor league umpire."

    • 5

      Avoid trying to one-up the other actors. Ad-libbing can become difficult to watch if the actors try to continually top each other. Be a team player. Help the scene improve. Don't try to steal the spotlight.

Screen Acting

Related Categories