Konflik Sosial Masyarakat Jepang di dalam Film “High&Low: The Worst” Karya Sutradara Shigeaki Kubo

Abstract

This study examines the forms and causes of social conflict in Japanese society as depicted in the film HiGH&LOW THE WORST, directed by Shigeaki Kubo. The film portrays social realities such as gang violence and drug distribution among high school students. This research uses a qualitative method based on social conflict theory and the theory of literary sociology.The findings indicate that HiGH&LOW THE WORST illustrates various forms of social conflict, including violence, power struggles, conflicting interests, and drug abuse. Specifically, the film presents personal conflicts between the characters Murayama and Todoroki; class-based conflict resulting from structural divisions at Oya High School; and political conflict evident in the power rivalry between Yosuke Todoroki and Hanaoka Fujio. Furthermore, the study identifies the causes of these conflicts as differences in individual character, group-based interest clashes, and divergent social paths among the characters. The film reflects that social conflict does not stem solely from physical violence, but also from structural inequality, power domination, and the lack of justice and social control. Thus, this film serves as an effective medium for representing the complex dynamics of youth society in Japan.