Types and Functions of Speech Acts in the Film Imperfect (2019): A Pragmatic Study
Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine the types and functions of the speech acts used in the Indonesian movie Imperfect (2019) from a pragmatic point of view. In this study, the researcher employed a qualitative descriptive method based on Austin's (1962) theory of speech acts and Searle's (1969) classification of illocutionary acts. The data for this study were obtained from the dialogues between the main and supporting characters. Then, the data were analyzed according to the types of the speech acts performed: assertive, directive, commissive, expressive, and declarative. The results showed that assertive and directive speech acts dominated the movie Imperfect, which reflects the characters' inner conflicts and social pressures regarding physical appearance. In addition, commissive and expressive acts emphasize the characters' support and expression. Declarative acts signal the characters' social status change and the climax of the story. These results show that the use of the speech acts in the movie Imperfect not only functions as a means of communication but also as an effective narrative and moral tool for character building, influencing the audience, and delivering social messages.
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References
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