Theories

     A theory I am interested in implementing into my film is Todorov’s theory of equilibrium. It allows for an easy to follow strucutre for the audience. It also makes it more engaging and enjoyable.

    In Todorov's theory of equilibrium, first, everything is normal and calm, which is called equilibrium. Then, something happens that messes things up, creating a problem (disequilibrium). The characters work to fix this problem through a series of events. Eventually, they solve the problem, and things return to a new normal, new equilibrium. Todorov's theory can be seen in many movies and books. When the disruption happens, it can be anything from a sudden event, like a disaster, to a new character entering the story. This disruption creates tension and pushes  the plot forward. By the end, they've usually learned something new or changed in some way, leading to a new equilibrium. 

     In my film, this teenage girl can go through either a big fight with her family or friends and realize she doesn’t have to change herself to fit in. At the start of the film, everything could be working well, living this double life. When the disequilibrium occurs, she struggles to fix everything. Eventually coming to the realization that she can be herself even if it means losing people. That would be her lesson and the start of the new equilibrium.

Media Studies. (2024, March 1). Todorov’s narrative theory of equilibrium and disruption. https://media-studies.com/todorov/