Criticism to the Capitalist System in Black Panther Movie

Oleh :
Rahmadiansyah Diva Alleta Irawati - B0320045 - Fak. Ilmu Budaya

This research has been conducted to examine the representation of the capitalist system in the Black Panther movie and the critical construction of the economic and political system and an alternative to the system. The source of data is the Black Panther movie from Marvel Studios. The data were the narrative, the character development, dialogue, and camera angels that were relevant to the topic. Roland Barthes' semiotics theory and capitalist system concept are used to analyze the data. Four types guide the analysis in answering the research question: (1) capital orientation, (2) "stakeholder" orientation, (3) leadership orientation, and (4) management policies. The research findings reveal that the characters of N'Jobu, Killmonger, and Ulysses Klaue boldly embody the capitalist system. It raises criticism, represented by T'Challa, Shuri, Nakia, and Okoye characters. The movie provides an alternative system through T'Challa, Shuri, Nakia, and Wakanda policies prioritizing "stakeholders" well-being and the ethical principle of using Vibranium, which signifies a conscious capitalist system. T'Challa is the son of T'Chaka who spent his life in Wakanda and the pure blood of Wakanda. It contrast with Killmonger, an African American in Oakland, California. The movie confronts the stereotype of Africa often depicted by Western media. Instead of representing Africa as monolithic, chaotic, or underdeveloped, the director represents Wakanda as an advanced, thriving, and complex society.