Todorov's Theory

Todorov's theory is the way we look at narrative and structures. Tzvetan Todorov devised a way of analysing narrative according to the way they move forward through different stages. He suggested that many narratives, regardless of their genre, could be broken into specific stages for analysis. I will use these stages when planning for the main task, so it has a set structure and this will make it easier to create the film.

Todorov's Narrative Stages
Equilibrium- the setting is established, key character(s) are introduced and the storyline is set up.
Disruption- oppositional character(s)- appear and the story takes a particular direction.
Recognition of disruption- the lives of characters and events are interwoven. Tension builds throughout this section, which is often the longest.
Attempt to repair disruption- the highest point of tension after which there is a change in dynamic.
Reinstatement of equilibrium- matters are sorted out, problems are solved and questions answered.

For example, the thriller "Phone Booth" has this narrative structure:
Equilibrium- We are introduced to the main character, Stuart (an arrogant publicist)
Disruption- He makes a call to a woman who he was been cheating on with his wife, so his wife can't trace the call. However, unlike any other day, the phone rings and Stuart picks it up.
Recognition of disruption- There is a dangerous yet intelligent psychopath with a sniper rifle on the phone, and threatens him to not hang up or he will kill his wife, who he has been cheating on. He tells him instructions on what to do, such as telling his wife the truth. If he doesn't follow these instructions, someone will be shot.
Attempt to repair disruption- The police come and Stuart confesses to his wife.
Reinstatement of equilibrium- The police search all the buildings that someone can look out of to watch the phone booth. The villain is caught and he ends it with his girlfriend so he can be with his wife.

This image is from http://asanda2mediastudies.blogspot.com/2007/11/todorovs-theory-of-narrative.html