Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi
Vol. 18 No. 1 (2025): Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi (Sinta 2)

Social Identity And Gender Representation of Superheroes And Villains In Indonesia Films

Prihandini, Puji (Unknown)
Zulkifli, Muhammad Yunus (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2025

Abstract

Indonesian superhero films still adopt Hollywood narratives that imply social identity and gender stereotypes. Previous studies still focus on the main hero characters, while studies that also examine villains are still minimal. This study aims to examine the representation of social and gender identities in Indonesian superhero films by exploring hero and villain characters. This study uses social identity theory and feminist film theory as theoretical foundations. The method used is qualitative with a sociological analysis of two female superhero films, namely: Sri Asih and Virgo and The Sparklings. The data collection method is by observing the narrative, character visualization in the film which is placed in a social and gender context. The results of the study describe the construction of social class between the protagonist and antagonist characters, the dominance of masculinity values ​​and the emphasis on the body and sexuality of the characters. This study concludes that Indonesian superhero films have not depicted inclusive and progressive gender representation. This study contributes to the development of film and gender studies in Indonesia and opens up opportunities for further discussion about popular media

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Journal Info

Abbrev

mediator

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Mediator: Jurnal Komunikasi focuses on communication studies and media. Although centered on communication, the Mediator is open and welcomes the contribution of many disciplines and approaches that meet at crossroads with communication studies. The type of writing is in the form of scientific ...