: Characterized by clear cause-and-effect logic, a goal-oriented protagonist, and "invisible" editing that prioritizes narrative clarity.

: Where style becomes the dominant factor, often repeating stylistic patterns for their own sake rather than to advance the story (e.g., the works of Jean-Luc Godard). Functions of Explicit Narrators

: Modern theory, particularly that of David Bordwell, argues that spectators are not passive "victims" of a story but active participants who use "schemata" (mental frameworks) to test hypotheses and draw inferences about the plot.

: Often prioritizes character interiority and ambiguity over a clear plot, using fragmented structures to reflect complex psychological states.

Filmic narration varies historically and stylistically, categorized into distinct "modes" that set audience expectations: