NARRATIVE

TECHNIQUES - IN MOVING IMAGE 

• manipulation of time and space
• split screen narratives- The screen splits in to sections and has mini narratives in each of them. 
• Three strand narrative-  but three plots are introduced at the B of the TV show and they interview as the plot develops. Some plot lines go in to the next episode. 
•  Flexi- narrative- Complex narrative structure with layers of interweaving narrative. - keeps the audience intrigued 

CONVENTIONS - IN MOVING TEXTS 

• Flashbacks- used to give the audience additional information to further the development in the narrative. 
• Point of View shots (POV) - allows the audience to see from a character's perspective 
• apparently impossible shots- Where the camera gives the action from an unusual spot. (in the air or behind the wall) 
• Privileged spectator position- camera places the audience in a superior position. Shows aspects which other characters can not see. (can create dramatic irony) 
• Enigma codes- camera only shows some of the narrative (used in trailers a lot) 
• Voice over- gives, fills in, promises information  (used in trailers a lot as well) 

GENRE

• Narrative
• - the plot/ story arc is how a story is told. all media texts convey information in a formulaic structure.

1.  This may be a linear structure comprising a B, M and an End. or it could a non- linear structure or circular structure.
2. certain genres have predictable narratives and plot situations. 

This is a very general and basic narrative structure
 Typical narrative structure is often broken down in this way: 

1. Opening: establishes setting and introduces character
2. Build up: Relationships established. Development of characters and their world
3. Problem: a dilemma or series of complications.  Characters are faced with an obstacle to overcome a mystery to solve, or often more than one
4. Events: a series of events/action as characters try to overcome obstacle, solve problem, discover truth and so on.  Further complications may arise in the process
5. Resolution: the protagonists are victorious, problems are solved, truth revealed
6. Ending: characters reflect on events, reinstate relationships and look forward.

• Characters
•  most genres have recognizable characters, known as stock characters , for example the rebellious teenager in a soap opera. 

1. audiences become used to specific character in a specific genre and can then predict what the character is going to do in any situation. 
2. It can also be related with the actor. Some actors are associated with specific genres. Bruce Willis - action genre. 

• setting and iconography
• objects or certain props used by characters may become specific to the genre. clothing is also a rapid way to communicating to an audience. 
• This can also apply to a certain setting and location. If there was an establishing shot of a hospital the audience now knows where the film is taking place. 

Technical Codes  

• These are very important in establishing a genre. some genre have a particular way of filming and will use certain camera shots and editing. E.G- fast paced editing and with rapid cuts is conventional in action films.