The Power of Women Behind Kretek Smoke in The Mini Series Film “Gadis Kretek” (Perspective of Cultural Studies and Feminism)

Abstract

The film “Gadis Kretek” shows the struggle for women's freedom rights in the Kretek industry. This research aims to reveal local traditions and values that influence gender roles and women's identities in film narratives. A feminist approach is used to dismantle the dynamics of power, resistance and women's agency. The qualitative method used dissects each film scene by observing interactions, characters, important dialogues, and the context of patriarchal culture in the Kretek industry. The results of the research show that (1) there is a construction of women's identity in the context of the kretek industry, which is depicted through verbal interactions between characters and the main character (Jeng Yah), (2) there is hegemony and social institutions which are displayed in the practice of oppression of women through community and family institutions, (3) resistance to patriarchy and affirmation of women's agency, such as courage in equalizing women's roles in the kretek industry. This research concludes that the struggle of the feminist movement is reflected in the film, as shown by the character "Jeng Yah," who resists for the sake of strengthening women's agency in society's social life.