A Critical Discourse Analysis of LGBTQ Representation in Disney Films

Abstract

This research aims to find out what LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) characters are depicted in Disney films and how Disney films represent LGBTQ characters within their scenes. The theory used in this research is critical discourse analysis that focused on Fairclough's model. This research applied a qualitative content analysis method. The research's data consists of dialogues and scenes from the film. A selection of Disney films that feature LGBTQ characters or themes is the source of the data. This research limits the number of Disney films to five, which serves as the sample. The five films are Beauty and the Beast (2017), Onward (2020), Cruella (2021), Lightyear 2022, and Strange World (2022). The results of this study are the LGBTQ characters depicted in the five Disney Films are Gay, Lesbian, and Queer. This research also found out that Disney represents Gay, Lesbian, and Queer in these five films positively.