A Comparison of the Character, Characterization, and Plot in 101 Dalmatians (1996) and in the Cruella (2021)

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Revina Martha Arthamivea
Yosep Bambang Margono

Abstract

This study explores the characterization of Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians (1996) and The Cruella (2021), focusing on the transformation of the central character across both narratives. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, the research analyzes how each film constructs Cruella’s persona and develops its plot. In 101 Dalmatians, Cruella is portrayed as a static, villainous figure driven by vanity and a desire for fashion made from animal fur. In contrast, Cruella presents her as a multidimensional character, shaped by trauma, ambition, and a struggle for identity, offering a more empathetic and psychologically complex depiction. The plot structure in 101 Dalmatians follows a straightforward linear progression typical of classical narratives, emphasizing conflict between good and evil. Meanwhile, Cruella adopts a more intricate plot, integrating elements of backstory, personal evolution, and moral ambiguity. The comparison reveals a shift from a simplistic villain archetype to a nuanced antihero, highlighting broader changes in storytelling approaches and character development in contemporary cinema.

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How to Cite

Arthamivea, R. M. ., & Margono , Y. B. . (2025). A Comparison of the Character, Characterization, and Plot in 101 Dalmatians (1996) and in the Cruella (2021). IJELT: Indonesian Journal of Education, Language, and Technology, 1(2), 333-337. http://ijelt.com/index.php/ijelt/article/view/43

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