Todorov

• His theory focuses on the stages that take place within narrative structures.

• Narrative is the organisation of events that take place. It’s used so that, as viewers of a film or performance, we can make sense of the events taking place and link these events together.

• With everything there’s a beginning, a middle and end. However Todorov separates narrative into five different stages.

Todorov’s Five Stages

• The five stages that a narrative can progress through are:

• 1. A state of equilibrium (all is as it should be).• 2. A disruption of that order by an event.• 3. A recognition that the disorder has occurred.• 4. An attempt to repair the damage of the

disruption.• 5. A return or restoration of a new equilibrium.

A state of equilibrium

• The plot of our Supernatural Horror Film links with Todorov’s theory of equilibrium and disequilibrium.

• A sense of equilibrium is established at the beginning of our film as the two sisters are displayed to be leading normal and happy lives.

• Evie and Morgan prepare to walk their dog through the forest, they’re enjoying each others company and feel perfectly safe, therefore equilibrium is established.

A disruption of that order

• The happiness of Evie and Morgan is broken when their dog suddenly runs off, deeper into the forest.

• The equilibrium is disrupted as the characters are worried for their dog; Morgan goes after him, telling Evie to stay on the path where it’s safe.

• The open cycle track contrasts with the dark forest, and the fact that the dog has run off into the dark forest creates a sense of ambiguity and danger.

Recognition

• The recognition of the disorder occurs when Morgan realises that Evie is missing.

• Before this happens, Morgan is running through the forest in search of her dog but she encounters a ghost like figure attacking an unknown man.

• In fear, Morgan frantically sprints back to the cycle track knowing that she’s in danger. She escapes the forest and expects to find Evie waiting for her on the open path, but she’s gone.

• Morgan knows that the supernatural force has taken Evie.

Attempt to repair

• Morgan attempts to repair the damage of the disruption when she returns to the forest in search of Evie.

• Whilst investigating the forest, Morgan discovers the unknown mans belongings, he was a reporter who carried a notebook and camera.

• With this information, Morgan attempts to repair the damage caused by the supernatural force by destroying her.

• Morgan battles the evil force, and eventually sets fire to her property, ultimately destroying her.

A new equilibrium

• A return to a new equilibrium occurs after the supernatural force is destroyed.

• Evie is rescued by Morgan- the sisters are reunited and the bodies of the victims (from the supernatural force) are found.

• Equilibrium is restored as the sisters are once again safe.