Analysing the narrative possibilities of interactive film from a practical perspective

Yang, Shiyuan

Abstract

This thesis, combining an extended essay and a creative project of equivalent length, explores the narrative possibilities of interactive films. It focuses on the potential of alternative plotlines to explore the ‘what-if’ story in the parallel universes. The thesis begins by examining the structure of interactive digital narratives (IDN), identifying the defining features and qualities of branching structure (Chapter 1 and 2). Key terminology, such as ‘branch’, ‘stratum’, and ‘vine’, is introduced to provide a precise framework for analysis. Through an evaluation of existing examples of IDN and relevant academic studies, the foundational requirements for this project – maintaining complexity and ensuring clarity across branches – are established.

Chapter 3 discusses the design of and reflections from the practical writing component. Two types of narrative nodes are developed: one for generating alternative plots and another for enhancing interactivity. This chapter examines how a third key requirement for the branches – coherence – emerged as the creative process progressed. This insight leads to the implementation of a ‘nonmerging’ branching structure, as well as the creation of a new character archetype – the Scribe. Reflections are organised around three dimensions: information attributes, character development, and new perspectives on fatalism.

Chapter 4 combines insights from critical analysis and practical application, offering a deeper examination of narratology in branching structures. It investigates how the changes in the discourse layer affect the text layer in branching structure. Using Greimas’s Actantial model, the chapter examines how the introduction of a ‘navigator’ into the story reshapes the narrative on a fundamental level. Additionally, it identifies and explores the unique narrative tension present in interactive films, created through the interactions between the characters, navigator, and the author. This chapter offers insights that can inform future development and creative use of interactive films.

Finally, the creative component, entitled Author’s Note, demonstrates the ideas in practice. Altogether, the resulting work not only delivers a script unique to existing interactive films but also offers analytical tools and structured guidelines for future exploration in the field of interactive digital narratives. It serves as both a practical and theoretical contribution to advancing the potential of interactive films.

Citation

Yang, S. Analysing the narrative possibilities of interactive film from a practical perspective. (Thesis). Keele University. https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1111051

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Mar 24, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 24, 2025
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1111051
• Award Date: 2025-03