Representasi Keserakahan Dalam Film Spirited Away Melalui Simbol Verbal dan Nonverbal

Abstract

The film Spirited Away depicts greed not only as an abstract concept but also through the characters’ behavior and the character development that occurs throughout the story. In the film, the theme of greed is conveyed not only through dialogue or verbal narration but also through the characters’ actions, plot conflicts, and visual representations that reinforce this meaning. This study aims to clearly and in greater detail describe the representation of greed in the film Spirited Away through verbal and nonverbal symbols. This study employs a qualitative method using a content analysis approach. Data collection techniques include observation, documentation, and literature review. Data analysis spans from data collection through research synthesis and conclusion-drawing, utilizing triangulation as a technique to ensure data validity. The research findings indicate that, verbally, greed is depicted through dialogue expressing excessive desires, such as demands for gold, food, and personal gain. Meanwhile, nonverbally, greed is represented through facial expressions, gestures, and scene visuals, such as excessive eating, scrambling for possessions, and physical transformations that become increasingly larger and uncontrollable. These two symbols demonstrate that greed has a tangible impact on a character’s behavior, as it can harm both the individual and their surroundings, and can be curbed through personal choices and attitudes. Therefore, the film Spirited Away not only portrays greed as a negative trait but also conveys a moral message about the importance of self-control and awareness of one’s limits.