Tuesday, 11 October 2011

Analysis of a music video with reference to Todorov and Propp's theories




This video has a very clear narrative, which is not directly related to the lyrics, but there is still quite a strong link between the two.


According to Todorov's narrative theory, there are 5 stages of the narrative:

1. A state of equilibrium

The group of friends are happily riding around on their bikes in their neighbourhood and not getting worried about anything.

2. A disruption of that order by an event

One of their homes is raided by armed forces and two of the boys are pulled out by soldiers. One boy seemingly blames another. (Boy 1 blames boy 2)

3. A recognition that the disorder has occurred

Harsh looks are exchanged between two of the boys in the group of friends, suggesting that one of them caused them to be in their current situation. Boy 1 is suggested to have broken boy 2's bike. At a party, boy 2 is seen walking through looking for someone. Boy 1 sees him and leaves.

4. An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption

The other three members of the group - the girl and other two boys run to where boy 2 works and try to warn him, but boy 1 appears inside and starts beating boy 2 up.

5. A return or restoration of the new equilibirum

Boy 1 stops attacking boy 2 and collapses on the floor crying. This doesn't seem to be the equilibrium of before, but boy 1 seems to have vented all his anger.

Analysis through propp:

Hero: Boy 2

Villain: Boy 1

Heroine: Girl, although she isn't a prize/reward for the hero

Father: -

Helper: -

Donor: -

Mentor: -

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