Plot Structure

Objective - To understand the concept of narrative and it's function in making meanings for film audiences.

Structure is important for films as it helps foreshadowing. It sets up the delivery of the ending.
Some writers write to find the story, others plan out their story before.
Some narrative withholds something from the audience.
Some films may alienate the audience with its storyline.

"Memento" Christopher Nolan (2000)
Even before watching the opening of "Memento" you knew that this film would not be like your average film, most Christopher Nolan films make you think and some might say are confusing. He has written and directed some of the highest grossing films in Hollywood such as "Inception" which grossed  $820,186,685 worldwide. He has also written and directed the 3 latest Batman films. Most notably "The Dark Knight" which starred the late Heath Ledger, this grossed  $1,001,921,825 worldwide and earned 2 Oscars, Sound Editing and Best Supporting Actor for Heath Ledger, Heath also won the BAFTA for best supporting actor.
In the opening few minutes of "Memento" you see the main character Leonard who is suffering from short-term memory loss. He uses notes and photos to help him remember.
You also see a man who Leonard believes is Teddy, the man that killed his wife.
Like many Christopher Nolan films you are left with questions within the opening minutes, like;

  What happened to Leonard?

Why is he suffering from memory loss?

Is he actually suffering from memory loss?

What happened to his wife?

Who is Teddy?

How did he meet Teddy?

How might the opening alienate an audience?

Many people may find it confusing, if someone went to see this film from watching the trailer they may think it was a typical action film but from the opening few minutes, although there is action in it, the structure of the film may leave people feeling confused. As it flashes back then fast forwards and some viewers may find this confusing.