Narrative Theory

Three Act Structure

Three act structure is perhaps the most commonly known narrative theory. It states that a film is split into three parts; a beginning, a middle and an end. Within these three sections there are smaller sub sections. The beginning is generally comprised of character introductions and scene setting. There is then an inciting incident that moves the film onto the second part. Within the second section we generally see a rise in action that leads to the climax. Once the climax has been reached, it generally signals the beginning of the end of film. In the final section we see a resolution that leads to the end of the film.

Todorov's Equilibrium Theory

In Equilibrium theory, Todorov suggested that a film will start in a state of equilibrium before something disturbs this balance. This causes the characters to strive to regain equilibrium. Further to this, Todorov said that were five stages to Equilibrium Theory; Equilibrium, Disruption, Recognition, Reparation and a second Equilibrium.

Propp's Character Types

Propp's theory centred less on narrative and more on characters. Propp analysed Russian Folklore and determined that there are a total of 31 character types that characters of modern film fit into. Within the 31 character types, Propp said that there were 8 main characters that could apply to the vast majority of films. The 8 consisted of a Hero, a Villain, a Donor, a Dispatcher, a False Hero, a Helper, a Princess and the Princess' Father.

Strauss' Theory of Binary Oppositions

Binary Oppositions Theory stated that films entail a conflict between two qualities and or terms. The qualities must be the complete opposite of each other such as 'good vs evil' or 'rich vs poor'. This conflict between two 'Binary Opposites' enables equilibrium to occur as they will cancel each other out. This, therefore, can often be used in conjunction with Todorov's theory.