Narrative Theory

Propp’s theory of narrative seems to be based in a male orientated environment (due to his theory actually reflecting early folk tales) and as such critics often dismiss the theory with regard to film. However, it may still be applied because the function than the gender of characters is the basis of the theory. An example of this could be the hero is woman. However many Critics Propp theory, Saying the strict order of characters and events is restrictive. Other would suggest rather applying the functions and events randomly as we meet new narratives. E.g. the hero may kill the villain earlier than Propp expects. Changing the traditional format will change the whole way the text is received. Another criticism would be many claim there are many more character types than Propp suggests and we should feel free to identify them. E.g. the stooge in a sci-fi film, who is usually nameless and usually killed early on to suggest the power of the alien force, is a typical modern character type. In addition propps theory also relates to Fairy Stories and to other similar narratives based around quests however it does not apply to all narratives.

Tzvetan Todorov simplified the idea of narrative theory whilst also allowing a more complex interpretation of film texts with his theory of Equilibrium and Disequilibrium. Equilibrium is a simple formula can be applied to virtually all narratives - it is a more formal way of thinking about the beginning, middle and end, and it takes into account Aristotle's theory that all drama is conflict i.e. there is disequilibrium at the heart of every narrative.  These help to create a new equilibrium creating a better narrative. The narrative is not seen as a linear structure but a circular one. The narrative is driven by attempts to restore the equilibrium. However, the equilibrium attained at the end of the story is not identical to the initial equilibrium. Todorov argues that narrative involves a transformation. The characters or the situations are transformed through the progress of the disruption. The disruption itself usually takes place outside the normal social framework, outside the ‘normal’ social events. The fictional environment begins with a state of equilibrium (everything is as it should be), it then suffers some disruption (disequilibrium), and new equilibrium is produced at the end of the narrative.  There are five stages the narrative can progress through. A state of equilibrium (all is as it should be)  then to A disruption of that order by an event thirdly A recognition that the disorder has occurred An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption A return or restoration of a new equilibrium.



Aristotle has his own theory however it connects to Tzvetan Todorov however they have different opinions. Aristotle's literary criticism is probably most famous for the "unities": time, place, and action. Aristotle's most complete analysis is of 'tragedy', which is arguably the basis of most 'serious drama'. Aristotle uses  Headings that are used by some producers and screenwriters some of which include Inciting Incidents, Dramatic Questions ,Character Goal , Antagonist/Protagonist, Stakes, Resolution, Sympathy/Empathy>These headings are very close to those suggested by the father of narrative theory Aristotle.

For my groups thriller film will will follow the conventions of Tzvetan Todorov. we decided to use todorov theory as it allows a more complex interpretation of film texts with his theory of Equilibrium and Disequilibrium. and by creating this it makes a more believable film, which is our main objective in our thriller film.