Theories- Toy Story

Propp's Character Roles

This theory follows the idea that all of the characters in a film of any genre generally follow these 8 character roles. These include the villain, who causes disruption in the narrative. The hero who restores equilibrium in the narrative. The donor who gives something to aid the hero on their journey, this can be something physical like a weapon or even magic.  The helper who also aids the hero, they often accompany them on their journey. The princess who needs saving by the hero, the father figure and the dispatcher who sends the hero o their journey. Finally the false hero, this is a character who appears to be good throughout the film until they are revealed to be bad.

Hero- Woody
Villain- Sid
Donor- Sid's toys
Dispatcher- Andys toys
Father- Andy
Princess- Bo
The Helper- The aliens
False hero- Buzz

Binary opposites

This is when two ideas which have related terms are put together to contrast both of the ideas. For example good and evil.

Bad vs. good
Active vs. Passive
Woody vs. Buzz
Utopia vs. Dystopia

Todorov's Equilibrium theory

This is the theory that every film follows the same narrative structure in order to create an interesting story and intrigue the audience.
1)It begins with the state of balance (equilibrium)
2) Then the disruption of this equilibrium as a result of an event or character ( disequilibrium)
3) Recognition of the disruption (resolution)
4) Attempting to repair the disruption
5) The new equilibrium  

1. Woody begins as leader of the toys
2. Buzz arrives as the 'better' toy
3. Sid takes woody and buzz using 'the claw' and intends to destroy them
4. Woody and Buzz construct a plan and escape from Sid
5. Woody and Buzz become friends, both leading the toys in Andy's new home

Uses and Gratifications

This theory is used to explain why we consume different forms of media, there are 5 main reasons for this.
Information- In order to gain insight into current affairs
Learning- e.g documentary- to gain knowledge
Personal identity- To watch roles models in order to identify
Social interaction- Connecting with society
Entertainment- Escapism

Toy story is used by the audience as a source of entertainment- as an escape into a different reality/ fantasy.
It may also be used for social interaction as it can be discussed with others in society.