Resemblance is uncanny
The image presents a side-by-side comparison of two subjects under the caption "Resemblance is uncanny." On the left side, there is a woman who appears to be speaking into a microphone, expressing herself with an animated facial expression. On the right side is a fictional green character with a highly exaggerated expression, wide eyes, and an open mouth displaying large teeth.
The human subject on the left exhibits a seemingly candid moment captured in photograph, her mouth slightly open as if she is mid-sentence, which contributes to a natural, unposed appearance. Her blonde hair and light-colored attire complement the organic expression, creating an authentic snapshot suitable for public speaking engagements.
Contrastingly, the fictional character features a vibrant green complexion, a hallmark of its non-human origin, which suggests it hails from an animated or fantastical context. The character's expression is intentionally over-the-top to evoke humor, with its eyes almost bulging and the mouth stretched in a grotesque smile revealing large, caricatured teeth. This deliberate design is meant to exaggerate for effect and elicit laughter or surprise.
The humor in this image stems from the caption that describes the "uncanny" resemblance between the two. Humor often arises from the unexpected or the juxtaposition of dissimilar elements that are suddenly perceived as having similarity. In comparing a human's natural expression with the outlandish expression of a comically designed character, the image plays on the viewer's recognition of exaggerated similarities.
Moreover, when humans observe cartoons or fictional characters, there's a tendency to anthropomorphize them, attributing human characteristics to non-human entities. This projection can increase the perceived humor when such characters are placed alongside actual humans, as viewers non-consciously apply human standards to the characters’ expressive features.
Lastly, the image taps into the cultural understanding of caricature and parody. By implying that there's a notable resemblance between the woman and an obviously fantastical character, it creates a space for mild, playful mockery that relies upon the shared knowledge that such comparisons are meant to be humorous and not taken at face value. The humor comes from recognizing the absurdity of the comparison while acknowledging the fleeting coincidental similarities in the expressions. Resemblance is uncanny
