Torodov theory
In 1969 Torodov produced a theory which he believed could be applied to any film. He believed that all films followed the same narrative pattern. They all went through stages called the equilibrium, disruption, recognition of disruption, attempt to repair and reinstatement of equilibrium.
Here is an example of a Pixar short film with the theory applied to...
Equilibrium-Rain starts to fall in a busy street, and objects start to smile (drains and gutters) Amongst others, a blue umbrella is seen happy in the street. The people come to a stop causing the umbrella to see the glowing red umbrella next to it. The red umbrella notices the blue one
Disruption- The people continue to walk causing the umbrellas to separate, objects begin to show sadness as they separate.
Recognition of disruption- Umbrellas are getting further apart and rain and wind is becoming stronger so is harder for them to return together. The umbrella escapes from the person and flies away.
Attempt to repair - Flies gracefully but sadly to try and find the red umbrella but cannot find it. Eventually sees the red umbrella but is caught by wind and flies away again. Objects around start to look scared and help the umbrella move out of traffic.
Reinstatement of equilibrium - Owner finally finds and picks up the umbrella which had been turned over on the road which is then joined by the red umbrella. The two owners walk off together which makes the umbrellas and objects around them happy again. The objects (drains, gutters and signs) begin to smile again as the two umbrellas sit together by the café where the scene started.
Vladimir Propp
Vladamir Propp came up with the theory that any story has the same/similar main characters within the film, especially Disney films.
Characters include...
The hero-Seeks something, usually love of the princess and to help her/someone.
Heroine/princess-The princess is who the hero falls in love with/tries to help
Princesses father-The father of the princess either gives the hero the task or dislikes the hero.
Villian-The one that gets in the way, who fights to hero.
Donor/mentor-Someone who gives something magical to the hero to help and prepare the for trouble.
Helper-A friend of the hero who helps him complete the task along the way.
An example...from Shrek...
Hero- Shrek
Princess- Fiona
Villian- Prince Charming, Fairy God Mother, Lord Farquaad
Princesses father- The King, Fiona's father
Donor- Magical dragon stops wedding, man who gives potion.
Helper- Donkey
Vladimir Propp
Vladamir Propp came up with the theory that any story has the same/similar main characters within the film, especially Disney films.
Characters include...
The hero-Seeks something, usually love of the princess and to help her/someone.
Heroine/princess-The princess is who the hero falls in love with/tries to help
Princesses father-The father of the princess either gives the hero the task or dislikes the hero.
Villian-The one that gets in the way, who fights to hero.
Donor/mentor-Someone who gives something magical to the hero to help and prepare the for trouble.
Helper-A friend of the hero who helps him complete the task along the way.
An example...from Shrek...
Hero- Shrek
Princess- Fiona
Villian- Prince Charming, Fairy God Mother, Lord Farquaad
Princesses father- The King, Fiona's father
Donor- Magical dragon stops wedding, man who gives potion.
Helper- Donkey