Planning - Todorov's Theory of Narrative

Todorov simplified the idea of narrative theory while also allowing a more complex interpretation of film texts with his theory called Equilibrium and Disequilibrium. The theory is split into five stages.

1. A state of equilibrium 
Everything is at it should be. Nothing out of the ordinary is occurring at this moment. There is an equal balance with the powers of any kind within the world. Anything of importance has current equality. 

2. A disruption of that order by an event (disequilibrium) 
An event occurs that changes the balance of powers. In an action film this is usually the antagonist realizing they can change the balance of power by doing something (the event in question).

3. A recognition that the disorder has occurred
Eventually, the protagonists will realize that results of the event, and then realize that they must do something to restore order in the world.

4. An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption 
The climax of the narrative. The protagonist and antagonist battle/resolve the disorder that has occurred in the world. Balance is usually restored. 

5. A return to the balance or a new equilibrium 
Life returns back to normal, as the disorder has been taken care of. Or, if the antagonist wins, there will be a new equilibrium. 


In these stages, narrative is not seen as a linear structure but a circular one. The narrative is driven by attempts to restore the former equilibrium. However, the equilibrium attained at the end is not identical to the initial one. The characters end up changing throughout the narrative.