Donnie Darko - Narrative

Looking at Todorov's Theory of Equilibrium, I watched the full film of Donnie Darko. Using the theory I analysed the structure of the film and how the narrative is represented. The Theory Todorov discovered consists of 5 stages which explains the narrative of a film or a trailer. Using Todorov's theory I will be able to see if the film Donnie Darko challenges the theory or obeys the stages of the theory by Todorov. The stages are:

Stage 1 - Equilibrium (profane diegesis & regular lifestyle for the main characters). 

Stage 2 - Disruption by an event or situation. 

Stage 3 - Recognition of disruption

Stage 4 - Attempt to repair/solve disruption

Stage 5 - Return to Equilibrium

It is rare to have a narrative end with the death of the protagonist, though this is necessary because his delusional thoughts cause the narrative problem. Donnie is the hero as he gives the narrative solution; Frank being the villain, he ironically saves Donnie. Donnie shoots the villain but then saves him by staying in his bed to die. Donnie’s selflessness makes him the ultimate hero of the film. The narrative works to hook the audience through the mystery. 

Situation: Donnie living a regular life as this middle class teenage boy (apart from his schizophrenia).

Disruption: air craft engine lands in Donnie's house - Donnie Survives this. 

Resolution: Donnies death. - repairs the break in the space - time continuum. (saves world).