Another common sketch format is the Superhero sketch.

Starting notes:

- This is like the older super hero movies of the 50’s and 60’s (think original Batman)
- Instead of a big super power, give the hero a very small super power
- Every super hero has a sidekick with an even smaller but related power
- Every hero should have a super villain that’s the exact opposite of the super hero
- The fighting doesn’t have to be physical
- Try to have specifics about the characters in every single line, each line should push the sketch forward

The Parts of the Superhero Sketch

Scene 1
Similar to a commercial, two people are having a problem and they ask, “can anyone help us?” The Superhero comes in and says “I’ll save you.” Here, the audience should find out whether the townspeople love or hate the hero.

Scene 2
Announcer explains the origin of the superhero. The stage blacked out, as it is being setup for the next scene, so use the mic. When in doubt, something generic like falling into toxic waste works as simple explanation. This scene mostly serves to buy time.

Scene 3
The Superhero and his sidekick is hanging out talking about a previous adventure they had (not the one from Scene 1). This establishes the relationship between superhero and sidekick: Some options are: a) sidekick idolizes the hero b) sidekick works hand in hand with the hero or c) sidekick hates the hero

Scene 4
The super villain enacts his dastardly plan. Generic plans like rob a bank, destroy the world, or kidnap someone important work as the characters are what makes this sketch funny. The Mayor asks for help, the hero appears, the villain and hero lobby back and forth until the hero is knocked down for the count. This is where the hero is at his lowest point.

Scene 5
Announcer says “oh no, the hero is down for the count. Will he return? Find out after the break.” Commercial break (insert commercial sketch here to make the show flow better). After the break the announcer says “when we left off, our hero was in trouble.”

Scene 6
Hero finds something to get out of trap, or sidekick helps him. Hero finds villain, fights him and wins. Mayor or whoever congratulates hero on saving the day. Hero says cheesy pun and  everyone laughs.

Scene 7
The announcer says “stay tuned for next time when…” and adds about 10 seconds of possible future plot. Characters can appear on stage to act it out.

SNL Example:

(The best I could find anyway, this format isn’t as recognizable as others)

Ben’s Example:

Click below to download a super hero sketch I wrote.

(My plugin for displaying the script wasn’t working right this time.)

Ben Rosenfeld – BEARWOLF – Hero Sketch Example – BigBenComedy.com