Ekspresi Seni : Jurnal Ilmu Pengetahuan dan Karya Seni
Vol 27, No 2 (2025): Ekspresi Seni: Jurnal Ilmu Pengetahuan dan Karya Seni

Resistance to Patriarchy in Minangkabau Cinema

Prakarti DB, Vicia Dwi (Unknown)
Fitri, Dynia (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study examines forms of resistance to patriarchy in Minangkabau-themed cinema through an analysis of two films, Tenggelamnya Kapal Van der Wijck and Surau dan Silek. Although Minangkabau society is widely recognized for its matrilineal kinship system, social practices and cinematic representations continue to reflect strong patriarchal values, particularly in regulating gender relations, marriage, and female honor. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach using film text analysis, visual observation, and literature review. The analysis is grounded in Stuart Hall’s theory of representation and feminist film theory, with particular attention to patriarchy and the concept of the male gaze. The findings indicate that women’s resistance in Minangkabau cinema is rarely portrayed in overt or confrontational forms; instead, it emerges through symbolic, emotional, and moral expressions embedded in narrative structures, characterization, and visual strategies. Women are represented as ethical subjects who negotiate their identities amid the pressures of tradition, religion, and modernity. Consequently, Minangkabau cinema functions as a cultural space that both reflects and critiques the paradox between matrilineal ideology and patriarchal practice within Minangkabau society.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Ekspresi

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities

Description

Ekspresi Seni : Jurnal Ilmu Pengetahuan dan Karya Seni welcomes full research articles in the area of Visual Art and Performing Art. Scope areas are: related to Art and Culture, Creative Process and conceptual research in visual art and Performing ...