So we were talking the other day, or, err, a couple weeks ago, about the definition of "campy," 'member?
Well, here's what Merriam Webster had to say:
camp
One entry found.
camp[3,noun]
Main Entry: 3camp
Function: noun
Etymology: origin unknown
Date: circa 1909
1: exaggerated effeminate mannerisms exhibited especially by homosexuals
2 a: something so outrageously artificial, affected, inappropriate, or out-of-date as to be considered amusing b: a style or mode of personal or creative expression that is absurdly exaggerated and often fuses elements of high and popular culture [a movie that celebrates camp]
I dunno about you guys, but I wasn't diggin' it - ol' M&W just didn't capture what I thought campiness was. Maybe it's 'cause the definition was too formal - I dunno. So then, enter Urban Dictionary:
1. campy 119 up, 4 down
“Camp” n. or “Campy” adj. refers to intentionally exaggerated thematic or genre elements, especially in television and motion picture mediums. “Camp” style willfully over-emphasizes certain elements of the genre or theme, creating an almost self-satirical milieu. Some of the most popular examples include the James Bond films (exaggeration of espionage activities) and the original Batman series starring Adam West.
Because it strives for satire, intentional camp is likely to have a sophisticated cult following, consisting of the people who "get it." See, for example, the remarks of Mystery Science Theater's Joel Hodgson: "The right people will get it!"
I hated the TV show Alias until I realized how campy it was! Now I think it's great!
There are a couple other definitions in the link for this post, but in my opinion they just restate the first. I'm going with a well done, Urban Dictionary. Any additions/corrections?
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Oh, yeah, that's what it is...
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