Todorov's Theory (Equilibrium)

Todorov's Theory - Equilibrium

Todorov's theory dictated that in every narrative, whether it be film, novel or other, should follow a plot which focuses around both obtaining and breaking an equilibrium to entertain the viewer. 

Equilibrium

At the beginning of a narrative- a status quo/ power order is established. It is made clear to the audience where each character stands in this order, and we watch the characters interact with one another within their respective positions. Generally- a narrative will begin with characters happily in their usual position in life- unaware of the change steadily approaching them- or, the audience finds them in a position they are not used to, but are trying to escape. This equilibrium will be overcome throughout the film- either ending in the eventual success or downfall of the main characters. 

Disruption

Following the opening of a narrative, characters will interact following the expectations of their equilibrium for a while- before an event will disrupt this equilibrium- giving the characters either a chance to escape their current position- or grief over losing that. This disrupting event will cause disequilibrium, driving on the narrative and engaging the audience further.

Recognition

Once a disruptive event occurs- the characters within the narrative then recognise and react to this disruption. The recognition and actions that the characters make allow the audience further insight into their character- and into their situation, causing a more personal audience/character relationship through the narrative. This recognition also serves to drive the plot forward.

Attempts to repair disruption

The theory then dictates that some of the characters must then fight to overcome this disruption and to either return to their new equilibrium, or to create new one in an attempt to repair the damage caused by the disruption. 

Return to equilibrium

Towards the end of the narrative, the characters face a final battle or challenge to overcome- either ending in victory for the protagonists, or total destruction and tragedy. Following this, the characters either return to the original equilibrium the audience found them in at the start of the narrative, or a new equilibrium is established. This can either be positive or negative for a narratives protagonists. The overall outcome is usually predictable based on a narratives genre, e.g. a horror film will typically end negatively for the protagonists- whereas a comedy will most usually provide a 'happy ending' for the main protagonists.

Applying Todorov's theory to Se7en (Thriller)

Equilibrium

William Somerset and David Mills are both detectives, and are now partners- placed on a case together. Somerset is expecting to retire soon and lives alone. Mills lives with his wife and has a bad temper. 

Disruption

The case the Somerset and Mills were placed on is revealed to be a part of a string of connected murders, all based around the Seven Deadly Sins.

Recognition

Somerset recognises the link between the cases he and Mills are investigating. At first, Mills and the characters are reluctant to see this link. Somerset does research alone to confirm his theory. Mills and the other characters involved accept Somerset's theory, and work on the case with this theory in mind.

Attempts to repair disruption

The killer- John Doe- hands himself in, and Mills is confident in their success- although two of the expected seven victims are unaccounted for. Doe says he will lead the police to these missing victims- providing only Mills and Somerset go with him. Somerset is reluctant at first, but pressured into agreeing. 

Return to equilibrium

It is revealed that Doe has tricked the officers- and that the two missing victims were in fact always intended to be Mills and Doe. Doe murdered Mills's wife and- upon revealing this- taunts Mills until his anger gets the better of him and he shoots Doe. Mills is arrested and sentenced to life- meaning the final two victims have faced their punishment. The new equilibrium is established- ending with Mills's originally happy life destroyed, though Somerset still suffers the same loneliness he did at the beginning of the film.