J-Lalite: Journal of English Studies
Vol 6 No 2 (2025): December (2025)

Analysis of Gender Representation in the Film Luca (2021): A Critique of Hegemonic Masculinity

Al Firdaus, Juang Zuhdi (Unknown)
Khautsar, Daril Rakha (Unknown)
Saputra, Tegar Gunawan (Unknown)
Nirmalawati, Widya (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Dec 2025

Abstract

The animated film Luca (2021) contains many social messages related to how society views the role and identity of men. This study aims to analyze how forms of masculinity are represented in the film, particularly in relation to the concept of hegemonic masculinity. The method used is qualitative descriptive with a visual content analysis approach to key scenes in the film. Each scene analyzed was selected based on important moments that reveal the dynamics of male characters, whether through emotional expressions, inter character relationships, reactions to social pressure. The analysis results show that Luca presents a variety of masculinities, ranging from dominant and competitive to more emotionally open and accepting. The character Ercole, example, exemplifies aggressive and exclusive hegemonic masculinity, while Luca and Alberto demonstrate alternative forms of masculinity that are more reflective and emotional. The film also depicts the transformation of the main character from a fearful attitude to an individual who dares to express his identity, including in the context of friendship and future choices. This transformation reflects the potential for boys to move beyond traditional masculine expectations and explore more personal versions of themselves. The conclusion of this study affirms that masculinity in the film Luca is not presented in a singular manner but is diverse and open to interpretation as a critique of rigid gender norms. This study does not aim to generalize all forms of masculinity in animated films but only discusses the representations found in Luca based on the author's subjective analysis and interpretation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jes

Publisher

Subject

Arts Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

J-Lalite which is published twice a year (every June and December) is a double blind peer-reviewed publication consists of research-based and review articles, fresh ideas about language, literature, cultural studies which have never been published before. The journal covers all aspect relating to ...