This research discusses about the identity problems that derive from the First, One and a Half, and Second Generation of Modern Chinese American family in performing the identity. This research is constructed within the framework of American Studies as the interdisciplinary studies which applies interdisciplinary approaches such as the semiotics, the socio-cultural and the socio-psychological to answer its research questions.
This research is descriptive qualitative research taking Dim Sum Funeral as a source of the primary data. The primary data consists in the form of characters, characterizations, dialogues and the combination of certain mise-en-scene elements (setting, figure behavior, costume) and cinematography elements ( Camera Angle, Camera Movement, Shot Distance, Lighting).
Based on data analyzed, it is found that: first, the struggles of first, one and a half and second generation to acknowledge their Chinese ethnicity and American characteristics as part of developing a dual Chinese American identity that is derived from their characteristics as Chinese American. Second, the problem comes from the contrast between Chinese ethnicity which is brought by the first generation and the American traits summoned by one and a half and second generation. The clash between first, one and a half and second generation block their performance of regaining the identity as Chinese American. Third, the result of dealing with the problem that is happened between the first, one and a half and second generation shown by the re-connecting of family bond and blending the combination between Chinese and American characteristic. The first, one and a half, and second generation dual identity as Chinese and American requires the Chinese American generation to be able to adjust to their society.
Keynotes: Identity, Ethnicity, Americanization, Modern Chinese American Family