Applying Theory to 'Rupture'

Levi-Strauss: Binary Opposites

This theory revolves around the idea that elements in a story are paired and are opposite. I can identify a few examples of this in my sequence 'Rupture' such as:

• Male vs. Female
• Good vs. Evil
  
• Freedom vs. Entrapment
• Justice vs. Injustice
• Cleanliness vs. Grubbyness

Barthes: Action & Enigma Codes

Barthes theory claims that every film is dependant on Enigma codes and Action Codes. Enigma codes raise questions and Action codes refer to actions leading to other actions creating suspense in the audience.

Action Codes:
-Showing only the boots walking
-The laying out of the tools
-Taking the gun out of the bag (But he does not get shot. goes against Barthes theory)
-Man being held hostage
-The fade to black at the end of the sequence

Enigma Codes:
-Why does she fire a blank instead of a real bullet?
-Why is the man tied up with gaffer tape over his mouth?
-Where are they located?
-What tool will she pick?
-Why is she carrying so many tools in her bag?
-Why did she select that particular tool over the others?
-What has the man done to be killed?

Todorov: Narrative Structure

We cannot really apply Todorov's theory to our sequence as we have only made the opening sequence and his theory refers to the story establishing a beginning state of equilibrium, then resorting a state of disequilibrium and ending with the production of a new equilibrium by the means of the main characters actions [usually]. Our sequence is supposed to be the end of the story meaning it actually shows the production of the new equilibrium through the gilrs killing of the man who was partly responsible for the disequilibrium.

Propp: Character Types

Propp identified eight character types common to stories. I have identified 3 of these characters in my opening sequence although the rest of the film may reveal otherwise.

The Villain
This appears to be the girl in our opening sequence as she is the one holding the man hostage, playing with him and killing him. However, the rest of the film shows that she is only seeking revenge.

The False Hero
In my sequence, this role is played by the male character. The audience emphaise with his character as he is the first person we see and we feel sorry for him. However, the rest of the film will show him to be a member of the gang that raped and murdered the girl's sister.

The Hero
the rest of the film will show the girl to also play the role of the hero as she is bringing justice and avenging her sisters death.