Tzvetan Todorov Theory

Tzvetan Todorov (1965)

Todorov's theory narrative theory basically states that most story's or plot lines follow the same pattern or path. Todorov proposed that narrative structure has 5 main stages. However these can be summarised as 3 key points:

Beginning- a state of equilibrium
Middle- distribution to the equilibrium
End- reinstating of the equilibrium

Stage 1: A state of equilibrium is defined.
Stage 2: Distribution to the equilibrium by some action or crisis.
Stage 3: The character(s) recognition that there has been a distribution, setting goals to resolve                             problem.
Stage 4: The Character(s) attempt to repair the disruption, obstacles need to be overcome to restore                     order.
Stage 5: Reinstatement to the equilibrium. Situation is resolved, a conclusion is announced

Mistletoe- Justin Bieber

The first indication of distribution of equilibrium is at 0:17, then again at 0:35 by the female character. However, the equilibrium distribution is only small so is constantly restored.

From 0:50 there is clear equilibrium with both characters happy, until 1:31 when the distribution of equilibrium is clear, with the girl walking away.At 1:45 there is recognition of disruption when the boy realises she is upset.

At 2:00, there is attempt to repair the disruption because he has sent her a present. And at 2:15, he is waiting outside for her, attempting to repair the disruption.

At 2:18, both the characters are seen together, smiling, suggesting that the equilibrium is restored. For the rest of the video, the characters are seen to be happy with one another, and at 2:55 kiss, showing the reinstatement of equilibrium.

Wherever You Will Go- The Calling

This video is harder because it involves more bricolage than the Justin Bieber video, and is of a less linear structure. However, I am going to comment on the story (or my interpretation of the story), rather than the presentation of the video.

At 0:30, the female character is getting a tattoo of her partners name. This suggests that there is equilibrium. 

At 1:06, the female character is seen walking into the house smiling, but at 1:12, the male character is seen inside the house with another woman. This suggest disruption of equilibrium.

At 1:30, the woman finds the male with the other woman, showing the recognition of disruption of both characters.

there is no clear attempt to repair disruption, however at 1:56, the woman is seen throwing the man's clothes out. Maybe this is her way of attempting to repair the disruption?

At 3:03, the woman is seen with a different guy, and looks very happy. However, the 'ex' is not happy. The equilibrium is restored in her life, but not his.