Relevance of Evironmental Damage in Blade Runner 2049 by Denis Vellenueve : A Semiotic Analysis

Abstract

This research aims to examine the relevance of environmental damage in the film "Blade Runner 2049" through Charles Sanders Peirce's semiotic triadric theory. The film depicts a cyberfunk future haunted by severe environmental destruction. The main focus of this research is on three aspects of environmental damage: water, air, and land. The analysis begins by identifying signs that represent environmental damage in the film, using Peirce's triadic theory which includes representament, object, and interpretant. Water damage is visible through visualization of polluted and scarce water sources, which reflects the issue of contamination and the clean water crisis. Air damage is depicted with a dark and polluted atmosphere, reflecting the severe problem of air pollution and its impact on human health. Meanwhile, land damage is shown through barren and infertile landscapes, illustrating land degradation and loss of land productivity. The research results show that the film "Blade Runner 2049" uses strong symbolism and iconography to depict environmental destruction, reminding viewers of the real consequences of human behavior towards nature. Through a semiotic approach, this research reveals the deep meaning behind visual representations in films, as well as their relevance to contemporary environmental issues. In doing so, this research contributes to further understanding of how popular media can reflect and critique global environmental issues.