FINAL - Narrative (IV) Flashcards
What is the spine of any story?
Narrative Structure.
Narrative Structure:
- Protagonist
- Pursuing a goal
- Confronted by obstacles
Most narrative structures can be broken down into:
Beginning: (Act I)
Middle: (Act II)
End: (Act III)
Beginning (Act I):
sets up story and establishes the normal world.
Middle (Act II):
longest section that develops the story.
End (Act III):
resolves the story.
Inciting incident:
sets the plot in motion, usually in the first 10 minutes.
End of First Act:
the goal is defined; protagonist is off on their quest.
Mid-Point:
half-way through second act; the point of no return for the protagonist.
End of Second Act:
Reversal of fortunes; all hope is lost.
Climax:
Moment of truth for the protagonist; all they have learned is put to the test.
What or who is the primary narrator in film?
THE CAMERA.
What’s the difference between omniscient and restricted narration in film?
omniscient: scenes from ALL different perspectives (think: Grand Budapest Hotel)
restricted: all scenes are from one person’s view (think: The Graduate)
What do we mean by theme or narrative intent?
“What is the film trying to say thematically?”
How does it achieve this through plot, structure and character?
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What constitutes the typical Hollywood narrative structure?
Acts I, II, III
