Paul Feig on comedy writing

In The Guardian, American actor, director and scriptwriter Paul Feig offers nine comedy writing tips.

4. Cut the jokes

"A script packed full of jokes is what a network executive will sign off because it will seem funny on the page. But it won't work when you shoot it because people don't really act that way. A great comedy is about real characters who make you laugh because you appreciate their personalities and how they react to particular situations. They have to be believable human beings, not just vehicles for gags.