Representing Sexual Violence Trauma through the Character of Adil in Joko Anwar’s Film Siksa Kubur

Abstract

Siksa Kubur (2024), directed by Joko Anwar, is a psychological horror film that delves into the trauma of childhood sexual abuse through the character of Adil, a survivor of sexual assault. This study analyzes how trauma is represented using John Fiske’s semiotic framework, which includes the levels of reality, representation, and ideology. Using a qualitative approach, the research finds that trauma is depicted through Adil’s physical responses such as vomiting, trembling, and emotional breakdowns. Visually, the film employs dark lighting, close-up shots, and long silences to emphasize psychological distress. At the ideological level, the film critiques patriarchal norms that silence male victims and uphold toxic masculinity, portraying how deeply rooted cultural narratives prevent men from expressing vulnerability. Adil’s prolonged suffering underscores the lasting effects of trauma when victims are denied the opportunity to speak out. Ultimately, Siksa Kubur provides a symbolic space for confronting hidden trauma, challenging dominant societal views about gender, victimhood, and the silencing of male survivors.