Navigating Sitcom Revival: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Creative Process in Mid-20th Century Television Redesign
Hoot! Let's dive into the groovy, laugh-out-loud world of Max Mutchnick and David Kohan's latest creation, the TV series, "Mid-Century Modern."
This hip new sitcom takes its cues from the sleek, stylish aesthetic of mid-century modern design, and that's not all it borrows. It also draws inspiration from a generous heap of good ol' fashioned friendship, reminiscent of classic sitcoms like the legendary "The Golden Girls."
As Kohan puts it, "We wanted to create a show that feels both nostalgic and fresh, appealing to audiences who appreciate character-driven comedy."
Set in a glamorous Palm Springs pad that features chic retro decor, three best buddies - Bunny Schneiderman (played by the fabulous Nathan Lane), Jerry Frank (Matt Bomer), and Arthur Broussard (Nathan Lee Graham) - share their golden years after an untimely death. Adding to the mix is the witty and wise Linda Lavin as Bunny's mom, Sybil.
Now, let's take a peek behind the scenes of the writers' room. The duo crafts each episode with an unforgettable blend of laughs, emotion, and the signature 'WITRA' principle - "What is this really about?" They strive to strike the perfect balance between humor and heart, keeping it "real, tangible, and impactful."
The team pushes the boundaries of classic sitcoms, incorporating a healthy dose of contemporary themes and humor. When it comes to balancing the old with the new, Kohan explains, "That, to me, is one of the strengths of our show. And I think sometimes sitcoms get a bad rap, but they still work well, and they're totally enjoyable."
With renowned director James Burrows on board, the laughter flows from set to screen. And remember, one thing's for sure - in the enchanting, witty, and boldly authentic world of "Mid-Century Modern," there's always room for more fun.
Head on over to Hulu to catch all ten episodes!
The writing process for "Mid-Century Modern" involves a blend of laughs, emotion, and the signature 'WITRA' principle, striving to create a balance between humor and heart. This results in a show that feels both nostalgic and fresh, incorporating contemporary themes and humor, just like the entertainment found in movies-and-tv and the writing process of a classic sitcom like "The Golden Girls."
