MIGRAIN: Structuralism

 Task 1:

1.) Structuralism is a theoretical perspective that emphasises existence of universal structures underlying the surface differences of media texts. 

2.) Binary oppositions is something that creates conflict and drives a narrative which is useful since it helps an audience understand ideas by establishing clear distinctions/narratives. 

3.) Genre and the auteur theory link to structuralism because they analyse media and search for underlying structures/codes instead of one single audience interpretation. 

4.) Post structuralism argues against structuralism by saying that in media meanings aren't fixed or set in stone but are subjective to interpretation. 

5.)I agree with the idea of post-structuralism more since I aline with the idea that meanings in media isn't something that fixed but it can be interpreted in many different ways. 

Task 2:

A post-structuralist analysis would break down the set meanings, arguing they are not set in stone and dependent on discourse focusing instead on the film's ability to challenge binary systems, emphasising that the quirkiness of the Mitchell family are what make them unique and relatable, therefore resisting fixed or universal interpretations that an audience would usually have. 

A structuralist point of view would focuses on the universal patterns within the narrative, like binary oppositions (eg.humanity vs. technology or tradition vs. modernity), to understand how meaning is build. By examining the deeper meaning of the film's story, its characters, and its themes, we can uncover the recurring narrative tropes and repeated patterns of meaning that shape the audience's view of the story's themes (eg. family connection, individual expression, overcoming technologic dystopia).