<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the verbal and non-verbal communication signs represented through the character of Elodie in Damsel (2024) and interpret their meanings and communication functions in relation to her character transformation. This study employed a qualitative descriptive method using Charles Sanders Peirce’s semiotic theory and Mulyana’s (2019) communication function theory. The data were collected through repeated observation of the movie and identification of scenes containing Elodie’s communication signs. The findings reveal 36 data, consisting of 15 verbal and 21 non-verbal communication signs. Verbal communication is predominantly represented through oral communication, including dialogues, emotional expressions, warnings, clarifications, persuasive messages, and confrontational statements, while non-verbal communication is represented through kinesics and eye movements, with kinesics appearing in all non-verbal data. The findings indicate that expressive communication is the dominant communication function in both verbal and non-verbal data, followed by persuasive, informative, and social communication. From Peirce’s semiotic perspective, the communication signs function as representamina that construct meanings related to vulnerability, self-reliance, courage, compassion, and moral maturity. Overall, the findings demonstrate that verbal and non-verbal communication work together to portray Elodie as a resilient character whose transformation progresses from vulnerability and dependence to self-reliance and moral maturity]]>
