Soap Opera by David Ives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Soap Opera by David Ives - Essay Example According to the research findings, it can, therefore, be said that production of soap opera ensures a major hit. If one is creative enough, slight tweaking in the presentation can even produce a sequel, giving the production company a lucrative material to invest on. It also requires a small budget, which will lessen the risk of low returns on investment. The cast is minimal, the setting inexpensive, and the costume is almost down to none. What needs to be played up here is the novelty of having a washing machine as one of the major characters. The plot will even allow a general patronage showing. The short screening time will also allow several runs within a day, maximizing the potential of bigger profit. Any actor and actress can play the parts. It does not require a big name of a star on the credits. What will be sold is the concept of presentation, not the actors and actresses, and definitely not the over-rated budget for modern effects. This play can be called a mixture of paro dy and romantic comedy. Parody employs sarcasm, stereotyping, and even mockery. There are several scenes in this play that utilizes parody. For example, when the Repairman tells the Maitre d’ of the start of his relationship with the washing machine, he mentioned â€Å"I tried to watch cartoons on it till I was five --- unsuccessfully, of course. But by then, I was hooked†. Similarly, when Repairman’s mother â€Å"great gleaming mother Flora† who is â€Å"a perfect 50s housewife carrying a basket of dirty laundry† enters the scene. Why is it that a perfect 50s housewife, all gleaming and with â€Å"fluoroscopic eyes† and who sees every filth and dirt in her son’s clothes, unable to inform his son that the washing machine is not a television? And definitely, the absurd idea of what is a perfect housewife in this play is humorous, making the mocking undertone realistic and hitting its mark. These are just a few samples, but the play is packed with these puns from start to finish.