“They were very secondary on our set”: ‘Seinfeld’ Boldly Broke An Important Rule of Filmmaking But It Ultimately Helped The Show Reach Unparalleled Heights
- Seinfeld’s free-form style and live audience created a unique, stage-like experience.
- The show’s relaxed filming rules let actors perform spontaneously and engage better.
- This innovative approach of the sitcom made it a lasting pop culture icon.
Seinfeld was a sitcom that defied conventional wisdom in more ways than one. It was about nothing, yet managed to make everything. While people rave about Seinfeld’s humor and relatable characters, what’s less talked about is its filmmaking style.
Yes, it was also a bit of a rebel when it came to how TV shows were made at that time. By tossing out a basic rule of traditional TV production, Seinfeld created a show that would be remembered for years and years to come. It didn’t just follow the typical script, and that’s what made it stand out.
Seinfeld’s Free-Form Style Made it Feel Like a Stage Show
Unlike most TV shows where actors stick to their marked positions, Seinfeld was more of a free-for-all. It followed a theatrical style, where the cast had the freedom to wander around, giving it a spontaneous—almost improv—feel. Jason Alexander, known for his role as George Costanza on Seinfeld, said of the marks in an interview with Jake’s Takes:
They are critical on a film set, they were very secondary on our set, it was more about playing to a live audience.
With four cameras filming from all sides, the cast could move and interact like they were on stage. They had to bring their best performances and avoid bumping into each other too much!
This relaxed rule kept the show entertaining for both live audiences and fans watching from their couches. This approach helped actors just worry about their lines and engaging with the audience, not about where the camera is or what they’re supposed to do next.
Seinfeld‘s Live Audience Approach Redefined TV Entertainment
Seinfeld‘s choice to focus on the live audience rather than sticking to strict camera setups was a genius move. By creating the audience as a key part of the show, the cast was able to generate a palpable energy.
With the audience just 30 feet away, the actors had to project their lines with such clarity and conviction that even the person in the back row could hear them. Seinfeld broke the mold of regular TV shows, turning it into something special that went beyond its genre.
It managed to feel like a live performance while still looking great on screen, which isn’t something you see every day. With its clever writing and a fantastic cast, the show became a pop culture icon that people still love today.
Watch Seinfeld on Amazon Netflix!
