This research aims to analyze the portrayal of adolescent searching for self-identity in the film by Wild Child by analyzing Poppy Moore’s free-spirited behaviors. The study develops its topic from the problem of adolescences who encounter difficulties in the process of finding their self-identity. Wild Child is one the films which take a theme of adolescent problem in searching for self-identity when encountering new culture. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method. This research uses a purposive sampling in taking the data in the form of dialogue, setting, lighting, costumes, hair, makeup, and body language. The collected data are analyzed using semiotic theory of Barthes which focused on interpreting the connotative meaning to understand the rebellious behavior of the character which is still in the adolescent stage. This research uses Erikson to interpret why the character is against the cultural values. The researcher uses Institutional and Fundamental British Values to understand how the social and cultural environment contributes to the discovery of adolescent identity. This film represents the complexity of adolescent’s search for identity through Poppy’s free-spirited behavior. This study finds out that the representation of Poppy’s behavior mechanism in adapting to the new culture as an American who should embrace British cultural values follows the several stages of coping mechanism which are interaction, leadership, mutual feedback, having romantic relationship, and exploration.
