Wes D. Gehring, a titan in the realm of film comedy scholarship, returns with his 42nd publication, “Kinds of American Film Comedy: Six Core Genres and Their Literary Roots,” now available from McFarland. This latest work stands as a testament to Gehring’s unparalleled expertise and commitment to exploring the nuances of comedy in American cinema. Praised by Choice for his supremacy in film comedy scholarship and lauded by Cinema Retro for the consistent quality of his work, Gehring offers readers an in-depth look into the heart of American humor, tracing its lineage from print humor to the silver screen.
Gehring’s new book serves both as an accessible guide for film enthusiasts and a scholarly resource for academic circles. He delves into the origins of comedic cinema, drawing a direct line from the jesters of print humor to their cinematic successors. The book opens with a crucial survey of American print humorists, setting the stage for the exploration of six fundamental film comedy genres: Cracker Barrel philosophers, personality comedy, parody, screwball comedy, romantic comedy, and dark comedy.
Dr. Ashley Donnelly, Professor of Media at Ball State University, highlights Gehring’s ability to weave social history with cinematic tales, noting, “His works take the people, the genres, and the history of cinema and intertwine them with the stories of the period he’s exploring.” Gehring’s study is not just an analysis of comedic genres but a reflection on how humor acts as a mirror to society, revealing the underlying connections between the screen and pivotal moments in human history.
This groundbreaking exploration begins with a nod to the likes of Robert Benchley, Will Rogers, Groucho Marx, and W. C. Fields, humorists who transcended the boundary between the written word and film. Gehring identifies six comic film genres that have emerged from this rich tradition of American humor, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of comedy in cinema.
In discussing the motivation behind his study, Gehring remarks on the importance of recognizing comedy’s role in challenging the world around us. He sees humor as an act of defiance, a reminder that we are not alone in our observations and critiques of society.
Peter William Evans, Emeritus Professor of Film Studies at Queen Mary University of London, describes Gehring’s book as a “tour de force,” praising its extensive research and detailed analysis. The volume not only appeals to film lovers and scholars but also provides an original survey of the connections between print and screen humor.
“Kinds of American Film Comedy” is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of laughter and its significance in American culture. Gehring’s latest work is a comprehensive and enlightening study that promises to enrich our understanding of comedy’s place in film and literature.
Available in softcover and electronic formats, this 242-page journey through American film comedy is enriched with 39 photos, notes, a bibliography, and an index. For those ready to dive into the depth of American film comedy and its literary roots, Gehring’s book is an essential addition to your collection. Order your copy today from McFarland and join the exploration of laughter that has shaped generations.
