Narrative Theory – Narrative Structure

Traditional Hollywood films will follow specific narrative structures that are known as either Propp’s or Todorov’s (There are slight differences between the two but they follow the same pattern). Todorov’s theory is this:

1. Equilibrium – Everything is normal.
2. Disruption – Something happens to disrupt the equilibrium.
3. Recognition of disruption.
4. Attempt to repair disruption.
5. A return to equilibrium or a restoration of a new equilibrium.

The short film that I am creating will subvert this narrative structure and will not follow the typical Hollywood storyline. If it had to be compared to Todorov’s theory it would start off with an equilibrium, which soon gets disrupted and the narrative ends there, making it an open narrative, where it leaves the audience to question what happens next. [Check back here Philip!]