Analysis Feminism Criticism of The Main Character in Cinderella Movie 2021

 

Journal of English Leanguage Teaching and Literature

Analysis Feminism Criticism Main Character in Cinderella Movie (2021)

Rofiq,  Amaliyatul Hidayah

Stikubank University

amaliyatulhidayahrofiq@mhs.unisbank.ac.id

Abstract

This study is to analyze the main character development to be a success dreamed who break the unlogical tradition for woman in the Cinderella Movie (2021), directed and written by Kay Cannon and produced by Amazon Studio. This Movie talks about a kind girl who wants to makes a revolution. Emphasize in Feminism point, she wants Woman in that era allowed to open their own shop and struggling for their dreams.  The identified data are analyzed according to the Feminism Theory by Judith Butler in theory of literature that talk about the Character struggle for the goal that they have.  This study using descriptive method approach. The Movie was analyzed and summarized to find a proof citation and produced for Feminism aspect.

Keywords

Feminism, Cinderella, dream, business women.

Introduction

Culture is the totality of ideas and everything that humans produce in their historical experience. These include knowledge, beliefs, art, morals, laws, habits and other abilities and behaviors acquired by humans as members of society.

Literature is a social institution that uses language media. Literature presents life, and life is expressed through social reality, while literature discusses the natural and subjective human world. Literary works have a universal function and an important role in cultural composition. Literary works are creations that are communicated by someone with aesthetic purposes.

Movie is a literary work that describes life and that. Reflected in social life. Movie is also considered as a powerful communication medium for the masses it targets, because of its audio- visual nature, which lies in the power of vivid pictures and sound. Movies can describe that everyone has a character.

Character is one of the important elements in the movie (as narrative literary work). Characters are created to distinguish one entity from another (human, animal, spirit, robot, furniture, and other objects) based on mental, emotional, and social qualities. Character is a value that portrays the charm of a place where problems and events rest so that the story is built. Characters in a film play a very important role. Without characters there would be no story, without characters there would be no plot. Even though the dissimilarity of character will give birth to shifts, collisions of interests, conflicts that eventually give birth to stories. A film has a variety of characters that complement each other, so that they can provide conflict, plot, and story development, as the story maker wants. Although in its development there are also many films that only feature one or two characters throughout their duration. Characters are usually created with special traits and qualities.

In this movie the writter want to study about feminism struggling that happened with Cinderrella. In this movie the writters can gether a prof and and citation that indicates feminism.

Question  Reseacrh

1.         How Cinderella struggle for her ambition and dreams?

2.         How feminism behavior aspect  effect her struggle?

Literature Review

1. The writers review some of the research that related to this study :The journal "Analysis Feminism Criticism of The Main Character in Cinderella Movie by Disney (2015)" written by Wannyta Okania Mentari discusses the portrayal of the main character in the 2015 Cinderella movie by Disney through the lens of feminist criticism. 

The main idea of the journal is to analyze the representation of Cinderella in the movie and how it reflects and reinforces certain gender stereotypes and societal expectations. The author examines Cinderella's character traits, actions, and interactions with other characters in the movie to argue that the portrayal of Cinderella perpetuates traditional gender roles and patriarchal values.

The author critiques how Cinderella's passivity, obedience, and focus on appearance and beauty reinforce gender stereotypes that limit women's roles and potential. The author also analyzes how Cinderella's relationship with the prince reinforces heteronormative ideals and perpetuates the idea of women needing a man to rescue them.

Overall, the journal highlights the need for media representation that challenges traditional gender roles and promotes gender equality. It provides a feminist critique of the Cinderella movie, encouraging readers to critically examine media portrayals of women and question the societal expectations that they reinforce.

2.  2. The journal "Analysis The Main Character in The Movie Barbie Swan Lake" written by Tesa Hely Rondonuwu discusses the representation of the main character in the Barbie movie "Swan Lake" through a cultural studies lens.

The main idea of the journal is to examine how the character of Odette, the main protagonist in the movie, reflects and reinforces cultural norms and values, particularly those related to gender. The author analyzes how Odette's character is constructed, how she behaves, and the messages that her portrayal sends to the audience, especially children.

The author argues that Odette's character reinforces traditional gender roles by portraying her as gentle, kind, and submissive. The author critiques how the character's actions and decisions are often driven by the male characters in the movie, rather than by her own agency and autonomy. The author also examines how the character's appearance and clothing are designed to conform to stereotypical ideals of beauty and femininity.

Overall, the journal highlights the importance of critically examining media representations of gender and the ways in which they shape cultural norms and values. It encourages readers to consider the impact that these portrayals can have on children and to advocate for more diverse and empowering representations of gender in children's media.

Research Method

In this research, the qualitative descriptive method was employed as the chosen approach for data analysis and synthesis. The primary objective was to identify suitable citations and substantiate evidence pertaining to the feminist aspect, specifically gender equality, within the context of a movie. The theoretical framework guiding this study was Judith Butler's Feminism Theory, which originated in 1956. Butler, a distinguished American feminist theorist.

Judith Butler's feminist theory, also known as gender performativity theory, is a prominent and influential framework within feminist discourse. Developed by Judith Butler, an American feminist theorist, in the mid-1980s, this theory challenges traditional notions of gender as fixed and inherent, instead positing that gender is a performative and socially constructed phenomenon.

According to Butler, gender is not something one has or is, but rather something one does. It is a repetitive and ongoing process of performing gender norms and expectations through actions, behaviors, and expressions that are learned and reinforced by society. Butler argues that gender is performative in nature, meaning that it is constantly being enacted and reproduced through daily practices and interactions. She has made significant contributions to the field with her profound insights on gender and performativity. Her theoretical framework is renowned for its applicability to literary and theatrical characters, with an emphasis on the intricate interplay between gender and identity.

The data utilized in this study encompassed diverse elements, including movie citations, character expressions, and song lyrics. These multi-faceted sources were meticulously examined and thoroughly analyzed to extract meaningful insights and draw valid conclusions. The meticulous utilization of Butler's Feminism Theory in conjunction with the comprehensive data set has facilitated a nuanced and in-depth exploration of the intricate dynamics of gender and feminism within the movie context.

Overall, Butler's work has been instrumental in challenging traditional views of gender and sexuality and opening up new avenues for feminist theory and activism.

Fundings and Discussion

Cinderella's Feminist Interpretation

The character of Cinderella in the movie starring Camila Cabello can be seen as having a complex relationship with feminism. The portrayal of Cinderella in this movie is a modern interpretation of the classic fairy tale, which may deviate from traditional versions and incorporate feminist themes.

One aspect of Cinderella's character that may align with feminism is her independence and determination to pursue her dreams. In this movie, Cinderella is portrayed as a strong and ambitious young woman who aspires to be a successful fashion designer, despite facing obstacles and societal expectations. Her desire to break free from traditional gender roles and pursue her own passion can be seen as empowering and resonates with feminist ideals of gender equality and self-determination.

Additionally, Cinderella's resistance to oppressive forces, such as her stepmother and stepsisters, can also be interpreted as embodying feminist values. She challenges the unfair treatment she receives and stands up for herself, advocating for her own rights and autonomy. This portrayal of Cinderella as a resilient and assertive protagonist may resonate with feminist concepts of female empowerment and agency.

On the other hand, some critics of this interpretation argue that the movie may still perpetuate certain gender stereotypes and traditional patriarchal norms. For example, Cinderella's ultimate goal of finding a prince and living happily ever after may be seen as conforming to traditional gender roles and reinforcing the idea that a woman's happiness is dependent on a romantic relationship with a man. Additionally, the focus on Cinderella's appearance and fashion aspirations may be seen as prioritizing external beauty and consumerism, rather than challenging societal norms and expectations placed on women.

It's important to note that feminism is a complex and multifaceted ideology, and interpretations of Cinderella's character in relation to feminism may vary depending on individual perspectives. Some viewers may find her portrayal in the movie empowering and aligned with feminist ideals, while others may see it as reinforcing gender stereotypes. Ultimately, the relationship between Cinderella's character and feminism in the movie starring Camila Cabello is open to interpretation and may be subject to differing opinions.

Cinderella Official Soundtrack Movie

The title is Million to One sang by Camila Cabelo, there are a lot of lyrics that show the feminism and the struggle of her to reach her dream, which is to break the traditional rule and stereotypes.

Here I go again

I'm imagining a world outside unlike the one I'm in

Daydreamin' again of when I'll get a chance

There's a world that understands

Where you don't hear the whispers in the room you're walkin' in

Daydreamin' again, all I need is a chance

 

When I feel my fears staring at me

I tell it just wait and see

I know who I'm gonna be

I know who I'm gonna be

The worlds half asleep

It's gonna wake up and see

 

If it's a million to one

I'm gonna be that one and

If it's a shot in the dark

I'm gonna be the sun

And I just can't afford to be wrong

Even when I'm afraid

You're gonna know my name

You're gonna know my name

 

I can barely sleep

'Cause my heart is always racing, chasing, pacing 'round the room

Livin' carefully is something I don't wanna do, huh

 

When I feel my fears staring at me

I tell it just wait and see

I know who I'm gonna be

I know who I'm gonna be

The worlds half asleep

It's gonna wake up and see

 

If it's a million to one

I'm gonna be that one and

If it's a shot in the dark

I'm gonna be the sun

And I just can't afford to be wrong

Even when I'm afraid

You're gonna know my name

You're gonna know my name

 

I can see her now and then

Wanna know what I could be, yeah

I see her laughin', 'cause she knew all along in her head

So when the light is hard to see

She's telling me

 

If it's a million to one

I'm gonna be that one and

If it's a shot in the dark

I'm gonna be the sun

And I, I just can't afford to be wrong

Even when I'm afraid

You're gonna know my name

You're gonna know my name

You're gonna know my name

You're gonna know my name

These lyrics are from a song called "You're Gonna Know My Name" by singer-songwriter Andra Day. The meaning behind the lyrics is that the speaker is determined to succeed and make a name for themselves, despite the obstacles and fears they face.

The phrase "Here I go again" suggests that the speaker has been struggling for a while and is ready to try again. They are daydreaming about a world where they have a chance to succeed and be understood. The speaker acknowledges their fears, but they are determined to overcome them and be the one to stand out.

The repeated phrase "I know who I'm gonna be" emphasizes the speaker's confidence and determination to succeed. They refuse to live a careful life and instead choose to take risks and chase their dreams.

The speaker envisions a future where their hard work pays off and the world recognizes their talent and achievements. The phrase "You're gonna know my name" emphasizes the speaker's desire for recognition and success.

Overall, these lyrics convey a message of hope, determination, and perseverance. They inspire the listener to chase their dreams and work hard to achieve their goals, even in the face of fear and uncertainty.

The Citation from The Movie

1.   1.  The citation from the movie Cinderella (2021) that shows feminism aspect is when the character of Cinderella, played by Camila Cabello, tells Prince Robert, played by Nicholas Galitzine, "I have dreams that I have to chase too, just like you." This line highlights the idea that women are capable of having dreams and aspirations that go beyond traditional gender roles and expectations, and that they deserve the same opportunities and respect as men. This moment shows the feminist message of the film and how it promotes equality and empowerment for women.

2.   2.  In the movie Cinderella (2021), there is a scene where Cinderella confronts her stepmother, Vivian, about her desire to become a dressmaker. Cinderella says, "I want to make dresses. I want to make beautiful things, something that makes people feel special. I want to do something good with my life." Vivian responds by saying that Cinderella's dreams are "ridiculous" and that her place is to marry a rich man and become a queen. Cinderella then stands up for herself and says, "I don't want to marry a prince, I want to be one. I want to make my own path." This moment highlights the feminist message of the film and shows Cinderella's struggle to pursue her dreams and defy the traditional gender roles and expectations imposed upon her.

3.   3.  The proof of feminism and the struggle of Cinderella in the 2021 movie is when she confronts her stepmother, played by Idina Menzel, and declares that she will not give up her dreams of becoming a dressmaker and that she deserves to have a say in her own life. This moment shows Cinderella standing up for herself and defying the traditional expectations placed upon women to only aspire to marriage and motherhood. It also shows her resilience and determination to pursue her passions, despite the obstacles in her path. By standing up for herself, Cinderella becomes a role model for young girls watching the movie and shows that they too can have agency over their own lives and pursue their dreams, regardless of their gender.

4.     4. Another example of Cinderella's struggle in the 2021 movie is when she is working on a dress for the ball and her stepsisters tear it apart, leaving her in tears. Cinderella's friend, Fab G, played by Billy Porter, comforts her and says, "You are magic, don't ever let them dull your sparkle." This moment shows the challenges Cinderella faces in pursuing her dreams and how her self-worth is constantly being challenged by those around her. However, Fab G's words of encouragement remind Cinderella of her inner strength and resilience, and encourage her to keep fighting for what she believes in. This moment reinforces the feminist message of the film and shows the importance of having supportive allies in the face of adversity.

5.    5. Another citation that shows Cinderella's determination to pursue her dreams as a dressmaker is when she meets the prince, Robert, played by Nicholas Galitzine, at the market. Robert is intrigued by Cinderella's passion for making dresses and asks her about her designs. Cinderella responds by saying, "I can see a dress and know exactly how to make it. It's like the dress speaks to me." This moment shows Cinderella's expertise and passion for dressmaking, and her unwavering commitment to her dream, despite the obstacles she faces. Despite the prince's initial skepticism, Cinderella impresses him with her talent and creativity, and this ultimately sets the stage for her to pursue her dream on a larger scale. This moment reinforces the feminist message of the film, which encourages women to pursue their passions and talents, and to not let anyone stand in the way of their dreams.

6.     6. The citation in the Cinderella movie 2021 that shows Cinderella's determination to sell her dresses, even if the world says no to her. In the movie, Cinderella attends the ball in a dress that she has designed and made herself. When Robert, the prince, asks her about the dress, Cinderella proudly says, "I made it myself. I sell dresses, or I will someday." Robert responds with skepticism, saying, "You'll need more than determination to sell dresses," to which Cinderella confidently replies, "I have more than determination. I have a dress." This moment shows Cinderella's unwavering self-belief and determination to succeed, despite the challenges and obstacles she may face. It reinforces the feminist message of the film, which encourages women to pursue their dreams and to not be held back by societal norms or expectations. Despite Robert's initial doubt, Cinderella proves that she has the talent, passion, and determination to succeed, and this ultimately sets the stage for her to pursue her dreams and succeed on her own terms.

7.   7.  The citation from the Cinderella movie 2021 that shows Cinderella's determination to sell her dresses, even when the world says no, is a powerful example of the film's feminist message. Cinderella's unwavering self-belief and her refusal to be deterred by skepticism or doubt exemplifies the importance of persistence and determination when pursuing one's dreams. Through this scene, the film encourages women to pursue their passions and ambitions, regardless of the challenges they may face. Cinderella's success in selling her dresses is not only a triumph for herself, but also serves as an inspiration to other women who may be struggling to pursue their own goals.

Conclusion

After watching movie and read the script, the writer concludes. In this way, the citation exemplifies the movie's overall feminist message, which advocates for gender equality and encourages women to break free from traditional gender roles and societal expectations. The movie presents a vision of a world in which women are empowered to pursue their dreams and to create their own paths in life, free from the constraints of gendered norms and expectations.

Same way with the citation, the lyrics of the soundtrack also give the vibes of feminism and the struggle of Cinderella to reach her dream and pursue her to do as best as possible to make it come true and show to the world that she can do that. The things that never imagined by anyone in the world.

Moreover, the researcher gives suggestion for the future researchers  who are interested in deeper studying about character and characterization of the movie especially on the similar movie. The future researchers can use this research as a reference. Suggest for the readers, this research can make the readers more understand about the main character of Cinderella.

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