What role does the narrative of Bushi no Ichibun have in the communication of the messages and values of the film? 600 WORDS How Todorovs narrative stages can be applied and how this structure helps in the communication of M&Vs How the inclusion of Propps hero, villain & princess helps to deliver key M&Vs How binary oppositions help to drive the plot forward and deliver M&Vs

In terms of narrative, Bushi no Ichibuns plot line easily fits with Todorovs five stages. In my opinion, this linear structure (which builds to a conflict and an eventual resolution) helps to deliver one of the films key themes: the underdog overcoming adversity. The narrative structure applies more and more pressure to the character of Mimura his initial discontent with his job, then his blindness, then the uncertainty of his future income and finally the betrayal of Shimada (and Kayo). We see a character who reaches rock bottom and yet in the final stages of the film (attempt to repair and restoration) he overcomes the most extreme of circumstances. This simple structure communicates clearly that despite the most adverse circumstances the weakest can prevail. It also makes the ending more satisfying for the audience the narrative allows Mimura to be broken down and gradually built back up.Looking in more depth at the film, I would compare two key scenes one where we see Mimura at his lowest point and the other at his most triumphant. In the scene where Mimura discovers Kayos betrayal, micro-elements are used to represent the destruction of his home and life. Low key lighting is used to cast the home into darkness shadows inhabit every corner of the home representing the secrets which have been kept from him. Mimuras costume is also dark suggesting his state of mind. The diegetic sound of a storm approaching outside the home also helps to reinforce the destructive power this information has on the Mimura marriage. Furthermore, a mid-shot is used to show Mimura and Kayo divided (he is framed left, facing the wall and she to the right, facing the camera). This is a stark contrast to the equilibrium seen at the start of the film (brightly lit, sounds of birds and warmly coloured costumes). The micro-elements help to visualise Mimuras despair at the realisation of disruption (Todorov). Further on in the narrative (the restoration stage) we see Mimuras triumph when he welcomes Kayo back into the home. The same home set can be seen bathed in warm (almost sunrise) hues. Close ups are used to show the expressions of Mimura and Kayo where once Mimuras face was cast in shadows, we now seen a warm light highlighting the emotion on his face.