NARASI BUDAYA LOKAL DALAM FILM INDIE: ANALISIS SEMIOTIKA FILM-FILM PENDEK TRADISI JAWA

Chatri Adam Mag’lepy (Program Studi Ilmu Komunikasi, Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik, Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang)
Eko Purwanto (Program Studi Ilmu Komunikasi, Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik, Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang)

Jurnal Cahaya Mandalika
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026)

Indie films play a vital role in preserving local culture, particularly Javanese culture, by highlighting traditional symbols, rituals, and values through compelling narratives and distinctive visual approaches. Using a semiotic method, this study analyzes the representation of Javanese culture in indie short films, exploring the denotative, connotative, and mythical meanings of cultural signs such as the keris, masks, gamelan, and customary traditions. The findings reveal that films like Lamun Sumelang, Inang, and Setan Jawa effectively portray the tension between tradition and modernity while reinforcing collective identity through aesthetic and emotional experiences. Advances in technology and digital distribution enable these films to reach global audiences without compromising their local authenticity. Therefore, indie filmmakers are encouraged to continue presenting authentic cultural narratives, while support from the government and digital platforms is essential to broaden their international reach and impact.