Todorov

Todorov is a theorist who came up with his own theory in 1969 that all films follow a specific narrative pattern.

Each film has 5 key stages:

1. The Equilibrium. This is at the beginning of the film where everything is normal and all the characters are happy
2. A disruption. Something unusual happens in the plot which disturbs the balance of everyday life.
3. Realisation. The characters understand that something has changed and they have to work out what to do next in order to restore the balance.
4. Restored Order. The characters repair the damage and get everything back to normal.
5. A New Equilibrium. The ending of the film where everyone is happy and life is back to normal, but there may be a few positive changes.

For example the film 'Finding Nemo' (2003) follows this theory.

1. Marlin takes Nemo to school.
2. Nemo touches the boat and is taken by a diver.
3. Marlin and Dory set about finding Nemo.
4. They eventually find him.
5. The ending of the film shows Marlin taking Nemo to school again, but this time he is more trusting in his son.