Narrative in our opening sequence.

Narrative in our opening sequence:

There are various narrative techniques in which we will use in our opening sequence. An example of a technique we will use is following Todorov’s narrative structure theory; this allows a clear and structured narrative to flow throughout the opening sequence. This helps the narrative to develop and engage the target audience more effectively, connoting the storyline is interesting. We have followed this theory due to the fact that at the start of our opening sequence it is calm and collective while it builds-up the ‘atmos’ within the room for the first minute and a half. This represents the first stage of Todorov’s theory, which is the equilibrium element. The stage progresses into the disruption aspect of the theory as the fight scene occurs in our opening sequence. Again, this helps the demographic to understand the narrative better because it follows a similar structure.

Furthermore, another narrative technique we have incorporated into our opening sequence has been the use of Vladimir Propp’s character types theory. We have mirrored this theory because we want to reiterate the fact that audiences are more comfortable with media texts that seem familiar. This links in with Steve Neale’s genre theory because it suggests that audiences enjoy specific texts as they represent repetition of genre elements. And this is exactly what were doing by offering our target audience something to relate to by implemented particular narrative techniques. We have included Vladimir Propp’s character type theory due to the fact that we have represented the protagonist very clearly because the build-up revolves around him. He is considered as a ‘hero’. In addition we have connoted the antagonist of the opening sequence (the opponent boxer) as a ‘villain’ because they have an intense fight during the boxing match. Also, the coach denoted in our opening sequence is represented as a ‘donor’ and ‘helper’ because he offers the protagonist advice and support. Therefore, we have followed this theory as we connote these particular character types.

Accordingly, we have made these character types clear within our opening sequence throughout because of generic elements of what these character types roles are conventionally. For example: the ‘helper’ offering advice and the ‘hero’ being connoted as the protagonist. Ultimately, the use of narrative techniques has helped the audience to gain a better understanding of the narrative itself in order for the opening sequence to appeal.