Research Log 4: 'Non-linear Narratives: The Ultimate in Time Travel'

http://www.plotsinc.com/sitenew/column_art_02.html

Written by Linda Cowgill
Published on Plots Inc. Productions

"When a nonlinear film explores a character, theme relates to the protagonist's inner need and emotional life. The organization of out-of-order sequences illustrates the connection between the character's actions and his need, and this must be shown through directed action. The sequences built in the plot are founded on the same principles of action in linear, goal-driven films."

"Don't confuse nonlinear films with ones using flashbacks. Many films open on a situation in the present and then flash back to the story, and at the end return to the opening situation."

"Nonlinear films use a specific action to frame the plot. This framing action creates continuity in the structure and establishes a context in which to tell the story. As the separate episodes shatter normal (sequential) time by intercutting the past, present and future, the framing action produces a unified flow in a specific plot. This allows viewers to orient themselves in the story. Whenever the film cuts back to the current task, the audience understands where the characters are in relation to that task and the plot." "Controlling Theme Or Idea Because action does not direct the plot in a nonlinear film, theme takes on even greater importance. Theme defines what a film experience is about. The more diverse and out of sequence the incidents, the more we need theme to hold the segments together. At the end, each scene and sequence contributes to the ultimate discovery of what the film is about." A lot of useful information on this source, including many references to films that could be used as case studies. I believe the source to be reliable as the writer has had several books published.