"Comedy is much more challenging, because you have to have the same level of belief but you have to make people laugh, and that's definitely a challenge"

Jenna Elfman's quote discuss the nuanced and detailed craft of funny, highlighting its unique demands and the particular ability it requires from performers. At its core, the quote shows the double nature of funny: the requirement for both authentic belief in the product and the effective extraction of laughter from an audience.

Initially, Elfman recommends that the effectiveness of funny hinges on the comic's sincerity and credibility. Just as with drama, a comedic efficiency demands a deep belief in the characters and scenarios being depicted. This genuineness lays the structure for an interesting story that resonates with the audience, producing a world they can purchase emotionally. If the audience senses a lack of dedication from the entertainer, the entire act may fall flat. The secret is to navigate this belief convincingly while simultaneously preserving the comical elements that are implied to entertain.

The second part of the formula is the challenge of making individuals laugh. Laughter is complicated, originating from timing, delivery, and the relatability of the content. Unlike other categories where psychological responses like unhappiness or anger may come more naturally due to universal human experiences, laughter is subjective and needs a nuanced understanding of what may amuse a diverse audience. Successful comics need to read their audience, adapt their performance on the fly, and have an inherent sense of timing and rhythm.

Moreover, Elfman alludes to the fundamental problem in stabilizing these needs. Comedy requires a proficiency of tone, an understanding of pacing, and an eager awareness of audience characteristics, alongside the ability to commit completely to typically ridiculous or overstated situations. This mix of skills makes it among the most challenging categories for entertainers. Hence, Elfman's quote highlights the complexity of bringing happiness to others through comedy, elevating it to an art type that requires commitment and knowledge.