Platonic: Why TV, Not Movies, Is The New Home For Big-Screen Comedy?

James

3 min read

Post on Aug 07, 2025

4.9

Share

Platonic: Why TV, Not Movies, Is the New Home for Big-Screen Comedy?

Is the theatrical experience dying for comedic giants? Not necessarily, but the landscape is shifting. The recent success of shows like Platonic points to a compelling trend: television is becoming the unexpected champion of big-screen comedy.

For decades, the silver screen reigned supreme for comedic masterpieces. Think Bridesmaids, The Hangover, or even classics like Airplane!. These films defined a generation's humor, built careers, and raked in box office gold. But lately, the theatrical comedy landscape has felt…thin. Where are the laugh-out-loud hits that dominate the cultural conversation? Enter television, and more specifically, streaming platforms.

Shows like Platonic, starring Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, are proving that the serialized format offers unique advantages for comedic storytelling previously unavailable in the constraints of a feature film. This isn't just about runtime; it's about depth, character development, and the freedom to explore complex themes within a humorous framework.

The Advantages of the Small Screen for Big Laughs

Several factors contribute to TV's rise as the new home for big-screen comedy:

• Character Development: Television allows for a nuanced exploration of characters. Platonic, for example, benefits from the time afforded to develop the complicated, multi-layered relationship between its leads. This depth is harder to achieve within the tighter structure of a movie.

• Serialized Storytelling: The serialized nature of TV allows for intricate plotlines that unfold over multiple episodes, building anticipation and delivering satisfying payoffs. This is a luxury rarely afforded to feature films which often rely on a compressed narrative.

• Risk-Taking and Experimentation: Streaming platforms offer a greater degree of creative freedom. They are less beholden to box office pressure, allowing showrunners to take more risks with their comedic style and subject matter. This encourages innovation and experimentation, leading to more unique and memorable comedic experiences.

• Targeted Audiences: Streaming services allow for more precise targeting of specific demographics. This enables creators to tailor their humor to appeal to niche audiences, fostering strong community engagement.

Beyond Platonic: Examples of TV's Comedic Triumph

Platonic isn't alone in this shift. Shows like Ted Lasso, Barry, and The Good Place – all critically acclaimed and commercially successful – demonstrate the power of television to deliver sophisticated and hilarious stories. These shows often blend humor with dramatic elements, creating a richer and more engaging experience than many contemporary films offer.

The Future of Comedy: A Hybrid Model?

This doesn't necessarily mean the death of theatrical comedy. However, the success of shows like Platonic suggests a significant shift. We may see a hybrid model emerge, with comedic talent and storylines finding their best expression across both mediums. But for now, television, with its flexibility and depth, is proving to be the new powerhouse for big-screen comedic storytelling.

What are your thoughts? Where do you prefer to find your comedic fix – the big screen or the small? Share your favorite comedic TV shows in the comments below!