Narrative Theory: Spectre

The trailer for Spectre uses many narrative techniques typical of a British action/thriller. Applying Propp's character theory, the trailer shows the audience that there is a clear protagonist/hero played by Daniel Craig throughout. We see some sort of donor at 0:52 seconds that gives a hint or clue that can aid the hero in his mission. The trailer also shows a female character at 0:57 seconds who is clearly identifiable as the heroine as she is recognised as the prize or reward of the hero. We also see some sort of helper at 1:24 who is perhaps tracking down this secret organisation that will help Bond with his mission. The audience sees a glimpse of what may perhaps be the antagonist/villain of the movie seen at 2:12. All these characters shown in the trailer quickly help to establish action/thriller narrative and allow the audience to understand the main relationships within the two-minute running time of the trailer.

The film's narrative shown in the trailer is clearly introduced but doesn't exactly fit Todorov's theory of equilibrium. The part of the trailer that shows where everything is balanced is perhaps the only few seconds where everything seems 'normal' as the environment seems very calm as there is also no dramatic music that could suggest any action or mishap. It then soon very quickly turns to disequilibrium as something comes along to disrupt that equilibrium. However we do not see a new equilibrium being formed - which is critical - as the trailer leaves the audience wondering whether the protagonist finds a solution and if there is a good ending so the audience will have to watch the whole film.

The trailer is full of Barthes' enigma and action codes. Barthes' enigma code may be used to portray a mystery that can draw in an audience in and make them intrigued. The major enigma code seen in the trailer is whether Bond completes his mission and discovers the antagonist. The action codes are the most important in this type of genre as it relates to tension created: any action created that engages the audience. In the trailer, the audience is presented with a shooting scene after 10 seconds to portray how this movie is action-packed and full of adventure and excitement.

Representation Analysis: Spectre

The main male character is seen as the heroic figure that saves the lives of innocent people. He has a very wealthy life and is very strategic about the choices he makes while on his mission. He has a chilling connection between himself and the enemy he seeks. He goes through typical action scenes that are commonly seen carried out by the hero e.g. car chases, supercharged helicopter sequences, unexpected explosions and shooting scenes. This reinforces the typical stereotypes made of the hero as we, the audience, expect Bond to do spectacular things to impress and amaze us.

The female is seen as the vulnerable, weak figure. Is usually seen as the "sex object" and is very attractive. She is usually called 'Bond girl' who is a love interest as well as a sidekick of James Bond. They are usually considered as sophisticated and glamorous women and are generally captured or are put in danger and used as part of blackmail, waiting for Bond to arrive and save her. This emphasises the stereotype that women are seen as fragile and feeble and cannot do anything to save themselves.

The Ukrainian villain (and other non-Americans) is represented as an evil genius who is violent and dangerous. Bond receives a message which sends him to uncover a sinister organisation run by the villain. The villain represented in Spectre also reinforces the typical way villains are seen in an action/ thriller type movie. They use their initiative for example rampaging masked crowds to execute their plan.

London is represented as an exciting place where loads of action takes place. They also make London seem like a modern area where technology is used at its peak. For example, it is where the top secret organisations such as MI5 and MI6 are located which are under threat by the villain and it is down to Bond to put them out of this terrible danger.

The social class of the British class system is seen as a posh, stylish and luxurious lifestyle with their high-class, deluxe cars and suits. This reinforces the stereotype of the social class of Britain.