Narrative coherence

Definition

Narrative coherence refers to the logical consistency and clarity of a story's plot and characters, ensuring that all events, motivations, and outcomes fit together in a way that makes sense to the audience. This concept is crucial for engaging viewers and maintaining their suspension of disbelief, allowing them to connect emotionally with the characters and the unfolding drama. When a film achieves narrative coherence, it provides a seamless storytelling experience that enhances the overall impact of the work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Classical Hollywood cinema often prioritizes narrative coherence through clear character motivations and logical plot developments.
2. Directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Frank Capra are known for their ability to craft films with strong narrative coherence that resonate with audiences.
3. Narrative coherence can be disrupted by non-linear storytelling or overly complex plots that confuse viewers rather than engage them.
4. Audiences generally have higher expectations for narrative coherence in mainstream films compared to experimental or art-house cinema.
5. Achieving narrative coherence is essential for films seeking commercial success, as it helps build an emotional connection between the audience and the story.

Review Questions

• How do classical Hollywood directors ensure narrative coherence in their films?
  • Classical Hollywood directors maintain narrative coherence by employing techniques such as clear character motivations, logical progression of events, and a structured plot. They often utilize familiar storytelling formulas, including well-defined protagonists and antagonists, which help audiences easily follow the story. This clarity allows viewers to become emotionally invested in the characters and their journeys, ultimately leading to a more satisfying viewing experience.
• Discuss the impact of narrative coherence on audience engagement in classical Hollywood films.
  • Narrative coherence plays a vital role in audience engagement by creating a seamless flow of events that viewers can easily follow. When a film presents a logically consistent plot with relatable characters, it fosters emotional connections that enhance viewer investment in the story. Without this coherence, audiences may become confused or detached from the film, diminishing their overall enjoyment and willingness to recommend it to others.
• Evaluate how narrative coherence can differ between mainstream and experimental cinema in terms of audience perception and emotional response.
  • In mainstream cinema, narrative coherence is often prioritized to ensure broad audience appeal and commercial success. Viewers expect clear storylines with logical developments that allow for emotional engagement. Conversely, experimental cinema may challenge traditional notions of coherence by employing non-linear narratives or abstract storytelling techniques. While this can lead to confusion for some audiences, it can also provoke deeper reflection and varied interpretations. The divergence in audience perception highlights how different cinematic approaches influence emotional responses and engagement with the story.

Related terms

Diegesis: The narrative or storyline presented in a film, including events that are part of the fictional world as well as the characters' experiences.

Character Arc: The transformation or growth a character undergoes throughout the story, contributing to the overall narrative development and emotional engagement.

Plot Structure: The organized sequence of events in a story, often broken down into exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.