Narrative & Narrative Theory

Narrative is very important whilst making a film. It differs from the story massively. How the story is told and the plot itself.

Todorov’s Theory – Todorov proposed a basic structure for all narratives. He stated that films and programmes begin with an equilibrium, a calm period. Then agents of disruption cause disequilibrium, a period of unsettlement and disquiet. This is then followed by a renewed state of peace and harmony for the protagonists and a new equilibrium brings the chaos to an end. The simplest form of narrative.

Barthes’ Enigma Code – The narrative will establish enigmas or mysteries as it goes along. Essentially, the narrative functions to establish and then solve these mysteries.

Propp’s Theory –Vladimir Propp’s theory was formed in the early twentieth Century. He studies Russian fairytales and discovered that in stories there were always 8 types of characters evident. He did not state these characters were all separate people e.g. the provider could also be the helper. There are only 8 different character types and only 31 things they ever do. Once you have identified the character type (e.g., the hero) it’s easy to guess what they will do (save the maiden, defeat the villain, marry the maiden or whatever). This is easily relatable to films and programmes today.

In my film project ---, I hope to use Todorov's theory of basic structures. The idea for my film will be fairly simple, and the entertainment shall come from the journey the characters take on and the resolution at the end.