ECOCRITICISM IN THE MOVIE AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

Abstract

This study examines the representation of ecocriticism in the film Avatar: The Way of Water using Lawrence Buell's ecocritical theory. The main focus of this research is to identify how environmental destruction such as deforestation, illegal hunting, and exploitation of natural resources are represented in the film, as well as its impact on the social and cultural relationship between the Omaticaya and Metkayina clans. The film depicts the conflict between humans exploiting Pandora's resources and the indigenous Na'vi tribe living in harmony with their environment. This analysis reveals how the environment is not only the setting of the story but also an active entity that shapes the narrative, characters and conflicts in the movie. In addition, the migration of the Omaticaya clan into the Metkayina clan's territory highlights the challenges of cultural adaptation, resource sharing and social cooperation in the face of external threats.Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the research shows that the film criticizes the anthropocentric view of humans who tend to destroy the environment for economic interests. Instead, it showcases the Na'vi ecocentric approach that respects the balance of the ecosystem. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the study of ecocriticism and raise ecological awareness through popular media.