The Hidden Tools of Comedy, written for anyone interested in the comedy genre, particularly writers, actors, directors and producers, reveals the unique secrets and techniques of comedy. Steve Kaplan examines in detail scenes from popular films and television series, showing when comedy works, when it doesn’t work, and why this happens. Where other books offer advice on how to "write funny," this book provides insight into the mechanics and art of comedy, as well as proven, practical tools to help writers translate that understanding into successful, commercial scripts.