Deadpan Effect by Mason Scott

"Deadpan Effect" explores the art and science behind deadpan humor, revealing why delivering jokes with a straight face can be surprisingly effective.
By examining the intersection of performing arts and psychology, the book dissects how this comedic technique manipulates audience expectations.
Intriguingly, deadpan leverages incongruity, presenting absurd material with utter sincerity, which forces the audience to actively engage with the humor.
This approach, mastered by comedic legends like Buster Keaton, demonstrates that less emotion can lead to a more profound comedic experience.

The book begins by introducing core concepts of humor theory and rhetorical strategy, then progresses to analyzing specific techniques like understatement and irony.
Through case studies of prominent deadpan performers and connections to cognitive psychology, "Deadpan Effect" offers a systematic analysis of deadpan's underlying mechanisms.
It reveals how the strategic use of nonverbal cues and silence amplifies comedic effect.

Ultimately, the book provides a valuable framework for understanding and appreciating this subtle yet powerful form of comedy.