Narrative Structure

In order to create a successful piece that is both engaging and entertaining, there needs to be a narrative structure in place. When dealing with time, the narrative can be flexible. Linear narratives tell the story in a logical and chronological manner, without flashbacks/forawrds. Non-linear narratives tell the story in an overlapping manner, going back and forth from present to past. An example of a Non-linear narrative would be Pulp Fiction.

The narrative is extremely important and acts as the foundation to your product. Narrative compresses time, allows for characterisation, can be genre specific and should be recognisable to the audience. The narrative should progress in a way in which situations and characters within the film develop and change throughout. This is where Todorov's Theory comes into play...

Todorov's Theory

EQUILIBRIUM- a state of normality and calmness

DISRUPTION- an action or conflict is introduced which disrupts the previous state of calm

RECOGNITION OF THE DISRUPTION- the conflict is noticed and addressed by characters

ATTEMPT TO REPAIR- portrays change in character; character development

NEW EQUILIBRIUM- conflict is resolved as narrative comes together, state of calm is restored

This narrative theory can be applied pretty much all conventional movies. Although it is generally used to portray the structure the film should follow, it can appear multiple times within a movie. An example of Todorov's Theory appearing in a movie would be in The Simpson's Movie.

Equilibrium: The Simpson family are going about their day today lives happily

Disruption: Homer dumps a large amount of waste in the Springfield lake

Recognition of the disruption: After the lake becoming polluted, the CIA place a huge glass dome over Springfield

Attempt to repair: The Simpson family escape the angry mobs and Springfield via the sinkhole in their garden

New Equilibrium: They start a new life in Alaska