Homework: Genre and narrative analysis

The Notebook

Genre

The genre of this film is a romantic drama. The drama aspect is made very evident through the film's slow pace, emotional themes, and dilemmas (e.g. Allie having to choose between two men). The characters are developed in depth, e.g. showing Allie and Noah's relationship from their teens until their old age, which is a typical convention of the drama genre. The romantic genre is illustrated in the emotional storyline, and Noah and Allie's affectionate relationship. 

Characters

Princess: Allie- The rich girl who falls madly in love with Noah, the poor boy.

Hero: Noah Calhoun- The love of Allie’s life and they obviously end up together.  

Villain/False Hero: Lon- Allie’s fiancé who isn’t really a bad guy but she has a dilemma of choosing between him and Noah.

Princess’ father: John Hamilton (Allie’s father) is a nice guy who wants his daughter to be happy even if it’s with Noah.

Donor: Frank Calhoun (Noah’s dad)- Before he dies, he buys Noah the dream house which wins him over Allie.

Helper: Fin- Noah and Allie’s friend who introduces them and is the go-to guy for both of them.  

Narrative

Equilibrium: At the beginning of the film, Allie and Noah first meet. She is initially reluctant towards him because of their differences in class, but their relationship blooms and they eventually fall deeply in love.

Disruption: Allie’s mother doesn’t approve of their relationship because of their difference in class. Allie is forced to go back to her home town and leave Noah. Many years later she gets engaged to a rich man, Lon Hammond, which Noah finds out about and is heartbroken. Missing him, Allie decides to go back and visit Noah, when her memories come flooding back and she has a huge dilemma over choosing between him and her fiancé.

Resolution: Allie (the older version now suffering from dementia) realises the story is about her and Noah, and they die happily and peacefully in eachother’s arms at the nursing home.