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Step 1
Start with a laughable base: a specific job, social type or habit that is easy to poke fun at. Ferrell uses familiar images and concepts like the rock 'n' roll cowbell. What figures are funny to you? What personae would be fun to play?
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Step 2
Think parody. Ferrell plays outsiders, losers, celebrities and eccentrics. Anyone is game. Find the weakest parts of the character and play them up: Are they pathetic? Sentimental? Corny? Neurotic? Vain? Bring out these traits with gestures, expressions and body language that suits your character.
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Step 3
Create a whole personality. Will's big characters have unique behaviors, styles, trademarks and tastes. Ferrell always stays in character. He often adds silly costumes, bad hairdos and cheesy sexuality for humor, but a character's "look" should match his personality.
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Step 4
Get theatrical. Ferrell's best comedy exaggerates. For example, a bursting laugh, bulging eyes or a misused second language. Play, use drama, shock, improvise and feel out the persona. Will's characters have heightened moods and moments. They are embarrassing and often annoying.
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Step 5
Build contrast. A macho guy with a girlish scream is funny. A businessman with a mullet is unexpected. A hero who gets hysterical under pressure is silly. Whether or not you explain these contrasts, the unexpected is always funny.
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Step 6
Be human. Ferrell's big characters are a bit socially awkward but likeable. Ferrell makes comic use of his flaws. His own body is a prop when out of shape and in skimpy clothes. He exploits awkward moments, like being the only drunk in a room, making an unwanted pass or showing off artlessly.
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Step 7
Use narrative for skits and films. Develop a storyline to draw out your character. This sets up personality and hilarious interaction with other characters, events, scenarios and settings. Ferrell's big characters satisfy audience expectations.
