Practice

How has narrative been constructed in this film poster? [6]

Todorov’s narrative theory suggests that stories are told in linear and
feature 5 stages: equilibrium, disruption, recognition, attempt to
repair and restoration.

We can apply this theory to the poster as it appears to denote the attempt
to repair stage of the narrative where the hero seeks restoration. This is
evidenced by the props which denotes guns being used to attack someone
off-screen, as well as the hero and helper’s determined facial expressions.

- Describe the theory

- We can apply this theory because

- Evidence can be seen in costume/body language/facial

expression/camera angle etc…

John Wick (2014) – Todorov’s

Narrative Theory
John Wick is a 2014 American neo-noir action thriller film directed by
Chad Stahelski, in his directorial debut and written by Derek Kolstad.
The story follows former assassin John Wick plotting revenge against
Viggo & Iosef Tarasov of the Tarasov family, a Russian crime syndicate
based in New York City. Formerly working for Viggo, Wick comes out
of retirement as a lethal, skilled and relentless assassin and declares war
against his past employer after he was beaten, had his home broken into,
had his vintage car stolen and had his dog killed.

Daisy (Wick’s dog), a beagle puppy was given to Wick as a sentimental

gift after losing his beloved wife Helen Wick to a terminal illness. The
murder of Daisy unleashes Wick’s rage and brings up his violent past as
he seeks revenge and retribution – Daisy was the closest thing to Helen in
Wick’s eyes.
Titanium by David Guetta ft. Sia –
Todorov’s Narrative Theory
“Titanium” is a 2011 pop song by French DJ & music producer David
Guetta, featuring vocals by Australian singer-songwriter Sia. A critically
acclaimed, popular pop song inspired by the genres of house and urban-
dance, the meaning behind the song is finding inner strength to block out
verbal, mental and/or physical negativity as titanium is a strong metal
being used as a metaphor. The music video, which currently has over 1.3
billion views on YouTube as of November 2020 features a storyline in
sync with the lyrics and meaning: a young boy with supernatural,
telekinetic powers fights for his life to defend himself against the police.

Todorov’s narrative theory suggests that stories are told in linear and
feature 5 stages: equilibrium, disruption, recognition, attempt to repair
and restoration. It would apply to “Titanium” through the development of
the protagonist in the music video, as he starts off defenceless and
weakened (despite being superhuman) but later defends himself using his
gift which was presented as a curse by his teacher, police and the news:
that is being inner strength through telekinesis and energy absorption.