Narrative conventions of a short film

Narrative Conventions in Short Films

Three step Narrative:

The three step narrative consists of the set up, is where there becomes a prominent problem for either the character or audience. the story then leads to the confrontation, where they struggle to  find a solution to the problem.  the third part of the narrative structure  is the resolution, where the problem or the conflict is solved.

Todorov's Narrative Theory:

Todorov's believes that every narrative follows this three part structure, which consists of:

• Equilibrium: where opposing forces are equal.
• Disruption: a problem which interrupts or is an event. 
• Recognition of disruption: recognising what the disruption is.
• Attempt to repair disruption: a state of trying to fix what has happened (taking action).
• Return to equilibrium: returning to an equal state.

Most short films follow this three part structure. Usually the story will start with a state of equilibrium, where everything is how it should be "Normal".Then the film will progress to where the disruption is apparent and the characters recognise the disruption. This can consist of a disagreement or argument. The story is then ended with the attempt to repair the disruption with usually involves actions for example a confrontation or a settlement.

Slap Narrative structure

In slap, Rowland use this three step narrative to present the structure of the narrative. the setup is shown when Connor, is torn between showing himself wearing make up or hiding away, later you see him hiding part of him where he wears make up compared to when he is at boxing. Later the confrontation comes when he arrives at girlfriends party wearing a dress and make up and a huge argument breaks out between him and his friend. And the resolution comes after the arguments have ended at the film