A SEMIOTIC ANALYSIS OF THE MOVIE “ORION AND THE DARK”

Abstract

This research is a semiotic analysis of the animated movie Orion and the Dark, where semiotics is the study of signs and symbols. Orion and the Dark is an animated film from 2024 that tells the story of child Orion, who overcomes his greatest fear, Dark. The film highlights Orion and Dark's friendship and effective interpersonal communication, as well as how Dark helps Orion overcome his fear. It also employs energetic animation to compare light and dark, symbolising the coexistence of fear and courage. The semiotics of the film show the transformation of fear into a real substance, inviting the viewer to rethink their perception of darkness and fear. This research uses the semiotic method to analyse the symbols, colours, signs, and meanings in the film. Using qualitative descriptive methodology, 25 scenes from this film are analysed to determine their meaning, myth, and denotation. The results show that visually, the film uses light and shadows to enhance storytelling, and with dark, friendly behaviour and character, it emphasises the misunderstood nature of fear. The interplay between visual and narrative elements shows the importance of facing and understanding one's fear. It also shows the importance of effective communication and the role of parenting-friendly behaviour towards children.