Generic Conventions of Television Game Showskk

Definition: A Game show is a programme, on television or radio, where contestant(s) demonstrate knowledge by answering questions and has a competitive
element.
Generic Convention

Game Show 1: all-star family

fortunes

Game Show 2: hole in the

wall

Game Show 3:
Catchphrase (1990)

Game Show 4: takeshis

castle

Set in a television studio. Set design often includes a

podium behind which the contestant stands. Light is often
an important element of the mise-en-scene with lights
dimmed or spotlights used to heighten dramatic tension.
The host is sometimes a key element of the show and is
often someone whose A list days are over; a TV star from a
different TV genre; a comedian. The host often holds cards
as an aide-memoire for introducing contestants. Traditionally
the host is male, accompanied by a glamorous assistant.
Contestants apply to join the show and vary in age and
background. They are selected because they have
something about them, which will help make the show
successful or are selected at random. Contestants are
sometimes selected from the studio audience.

family behind podiumsWarmth- illuminated

The set is a bit different as

there is not a typical podium
for the host or the contestants

Two contestants behind

podiums- well-lit warmilluminated

The set is different for a game

show as it is out in the
outdoors and it does not have
the traditional podiums

Verman kay- popular UK hostconventially handsome

accent- northern

Anton dubec is a very generic

English host who makes
comedy out of everything

Roy walker- was a popular

host- quite old- northernaccent-friendly

The host is a very humorous

which is perfect for the type of
silly game show it is

The contestants are famous

which appeals to viewers more

Average people- suits prime

time slots-appeals to all
audiences

The contestants are normal

people from japan which is
reassuring to the viewer as it
shows that even people like
themselves can win the show

The games can vary from physical tasks to practical or

puzzle-solving tasks -

N/A

Getting to the buzzer first and

guessing the catchphrase

The games are very unique

and with a different task in
every one which has its own
challenge in its own right

The questions (if it is a quiz/gameshow hybrid) can vary

depending on the target audience. They are usually set
independently. Contestants usually know what type of
questions theyll be asked; often start easy and get harder.
Technology has increased the way audiences and

The questions are simple and

easy to answer so that people
at home can all have a go

They are famous people that

everyone knows so that you
can laugh at them if they fail, It
almost makes the viewers at
home feel like they are better
than the contestants
The games are very complex
starting with a solo(easier
challenge) and going onto a
more complex wall where the
hole team has to play which
makes it harder
N/A

N/A

N/A

contestants can see & respond to questions.

The prizes can be large e.g. cars and holidays or small e.g.
a glass bowl. Sometimes the prize is the title of being the
champion. Usually even the losers go away with something
even if it just the experience.
Gimmicks or catchphrases are often used to make each
show original and become part of the national
consciousness.

Music often used first as a catchy theme tune and then as

mood music to increase tension or to signal different parts of
the show.

The prize is 30,000 to a

charity of their choice

The prize in hole In the wall is

10,00 pounds for their teams
chosen charity but only if
defeat the final wall

Money to the contestantsholiday - other misc

Sound played when something

answered incorrectly

bring on the wall are you

ready to get In shape

just say what you see

The music is very upbeat

however if they fail the wall it
turns to disappointment quickly

Upbeat- fun- memorable

The music is very upbeat and

silly