Abstract: This paper analyzes the 2013 film Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wijck, directed by Sunil Soraya and based on the 1938 novel by Hamka. While often categorized as a romantic melodrama, the film functions as a layered social critique of Minangkabau matrilineal culture and the colonial caste system in the Dutch East Indies. This paper explores the film’s narrative structure, character archetypes, visual symbolism, and its central tragedy—the sinking of the ship—as a metaphor for the collision between tradition and modernity.
Cultural Prejudice: Zainuddin is rejected by the Minang elders because his mixed lineage makes him an "outsider". Full Film Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wijck
| Element | Symbolism | | :--- | :--- | | The ship Van Der Wijck | Colonial progress, the link between islands, but also fragile human ambition. | | The storm and sinking | Nature’s indifference to social rank; a cleansing disaster. | | Zainuddin’s typewriter | Modernity, voice, and agency—contrasted with Hayati’s silent suffering. | | Water | Both a divider (the sea separates Sumatra and Sulawesi) and a unifier (the wreck brings all to one level). | Title: Between Romantic Tragedy and Social Critique: An
Dialog Puitis: Karena diadaptasi dari karya sastra, dialog dalam film ini sangat dalam dan menyentuh hati, terutama surat-surat yang ditulis oleh Zainuddin. Cultural Prejudice : Zainuddin is rejected by the
The film received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences. Many praised the film's attention to historical detail, as well as its respectful and dignified portrayal of the tragic events. The film also performed reasonably well at the box office, grossing over IDR 10 billion (approximately USD 700,000) in Indonesia.
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