Todorov's Narrative Theory

In thrillers, we must look at the many ways that can be defined as a thriller. Todorov's theory is influenced by many films today and if you are sat there thinking about a movie, then think of them in these six phases. We can relate this to a Thriller in every sense of the word. I learnt from this, that this is what I will need to include in my Media AS coursework for the whole movie to come together. My movie would not come together if I did not put Todorov's theory together, but in some movies, people mix up the order to create a storyline.

Someone called Todorov proposed a basic structure for all narratives through six phases;

1 Equilibrium

2 Dis - Equilibrium

3 Realisation

4 Attempt to resolve 

5 Resolution 

6 Re - Equilibrium

1. Equilibrium:

An equilibrium will be shown throughout the first few scenes. This will create a sense of normality especially for the viewer and the main character which is shown in the first few scenes. 

2. Dis-Equilibrium 

The disequilibrium is where something will happen such a disruption from where the normality will change and cause the narrative to move forward.

3. Realisation 

The realization is where everything will become together of how the characters and events will suddenly become connected.

4. Attempt to Resolve

The attempt to resolve is where tension builds up and things need to be sorted out. Things need to be resolved in order for the narrative to carry on.

5. Resolution

The resolution is where things become sorted in some sense, everything comes together and the audience is able to understand what is going on. 

6. Re - Equilibrium 

Things have occurred and changed from where there can be huge differences to the good, to the bad or even if they are the same. Where it is back to normality and can establish a new equilibrium.

This is Todorov's Theory explained in the form of the Disney movie 'Bug's Life'