Film comedies are hugely popular with audiences, but hardly recognised by critics and Academy voters for annual awards. it seems facile to say that it is difficult for critics to take comedies seriously and yet the best comic moments in film depends on great writers and highly-skilled performers.

The day will cover many different comedy forms from around the world. Our aim is to have fun even whem we are trying to analyse how comedy films work. By contrasting Anglo-American films with films from other countries, we might also be able to decide if, and how, comedy can cross cultural and language barriers.

Tea and coffee are available in the Mechanics Institute Library. There are places nearby to buy lunch but you are also welcome to bring your own.