Applying theories to a film (Additional Work)

The Notebook- Theory Analysis

There are many theories that are linked into the movie “the notebook”. This movie is based In 1940s South Carolina, mill worker Noah Calhoun and rich girl Allie are desperately in love. But her parents don't approve.
 

One of the theories we see here is the “hypodermic needle theory”, this is shown by the media having a big influence to the audience in the movie. For example, they illustrate the couple falling in love despite their statuses. This gives out a message to us that everyone is equal and we should not be judged by our wealth.
 

Another theory is the “uses and gratification” as people may want to watch this movie for entertainment and to gain intellect of personal relationship’s as someone may be going through the same situation, therefore they can relate.
 

In addition, we can identity Todorov’s Narrative theory and the 5 stages are shown in the movie. For example, everyone was happy in the beginning, then a problem occurred which was the family getting involved in the relationship and finally ended with a good note.

The main theory portrayed is the “Binary Oppositions” founded by Levi-Strauss. This is clearly shown by the separation of statuses which is “poor vs rich” which in this case the girl is rich and the man is poor. Another binary opposition we can see is "male's vs females" in which the girl is more superior to the boy because she is well off and pretty. The effect this gives to the audience is that girls stereotypically get the attention of men because of their looks and can easily manipulate men.