Question 1b: Choose one production and evaluate it in relation to the use of narrative.

I have decided to analyse the trailer for the thriller/horror movie 'Prom Night' the 2008 remake. The key element that stood out to me was at the exposition of this trailer where Todorov’s narrative theory was highlighted such as the claims that horror films usually set an atmosphere of equilibrium right at the start of the film. To some great extend this was convincing. The first scene of the trailer all is well, and the majority of the characters are content. The trailer opens with an upbeat joyful music showing the main characters as they prepare for prom, this soundtrack is effective because it suggests that there was a sense of equilibrium.

however, a few seconds into the trailer, the music quickly cuts and the lights go off and on in the ball room, this immediately suggests a kidnapping or someone/ something is coming into their presence after an announcement is made to elect prom queen and king as most American schools do. The light of the ball room is cut and we hear a loud bang the use of non- diegetic sound is effective because it almost makes the audience nervous because it portrays a disruption or dilemma. This also supports Todorov’s second narrative theory of disruption. He states that at this point the plot will feature a problem that will interrupt happiness.

The audience is then welcomed using  Quick cuts into the disequilibrium to show scenes as the soundtrack changes to an uncomfortable strings music which increases the pace each time  and extreme close ups were also used to show the horror within the characters through their facial expressions. Finally, Roland Barthes narrative theory was also represented in a somewhat of a little extent through enigma codes, this refers to a mystery within =n a text (the use of newspaper articles and through the policemen) to describe the antagonist.

Furthermore, Vladmirr propp's narrative theory in some ways are also represented when the police officers attempt to restore the peace to a great extent they are carrying out the act of 'the magical helper'.