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