Searching For Self Identity In Movie All Quiet On The Western Front (2022)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the search for identity of the main character, Paul Bäumer, in the movie All Quiet on the Western Front (2022). The purpose of this study is to explain how Paul's life journey illustrates Jean Paul Sartre's concept of existentialism, particularly the concept of personal freedom. The data for this study was obtained from scenes in the movie that show changes in Paul's emotions and personality. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method using Sartre's existentialism theory to analyze the development of Paul Bäumer's identity throughout the story. The results of the analysis found that Paul's identity began to change from an innocent young man who followed others to an individual who began to understand the meaning of freedom and responsibility. This discussion confirms that Paul's journey illustrates Sartre's theory of existentialism, which states that human identity is not fixed but is shaped through actions and choices. In conclusion, this study illustrates that the movie successfully shows the existential steps humans take in searching for meaning in a harsh world, and it is hoped that it will inspire further research with different characters or perspectives.