This study aims to analyze the representation of national values and friendship in the film Sekawan Limo using Roland Barthes’ semiotic approach. The film was selected because it combines horror elements with strong local cultural nuances, making it interesting to examine from the perspectives of visual communication, culture, and social values. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method, with primary data drawn from scenes, dialogues, visual symbols, and narratives within the film. The analysis was conducted through Barthes’ three levels of semiotics: denotation, connotation, and myth. At the denotative level, the film presents visual and verbal signs depicting character interactions and the cultural background of society. At the connotative level, these signs convey deeper meanings related to national values, such as respect for local culture, the importance of unity, and love for the homeland. Meanwhile, friendship values are reflected through solidarity, empathy, mutual support, and sacrifice among the main characters as they face conflicts together. At the myth level, the film illustrates how popular culture can serve as a medium for delivering moral and ideological messages, particularly the importance of preserving national identity while fostering strong bonds of friendship. The findings highlight that local films function not only as entertainment but also as an effective communication medium to convey national and social values to a broader audience. Thus, Sekawan Limo demonstrates that film plays a strategic role in strengthening cultural awareness while instilling moral values.
Copyrights © 2025