Gender Stereotypes In The Film Sepet

Sepet is a Malay film that features a young couple, of which identify with different cultures. While generally people do live in harmony on an ethnic level, it appears to still be frowned upon for those who belong to different groups to be with one another and eventually marry. The experiences that the two main characters, Okred and Jason, have relates to that of experiences young couples may have had throughout United States history regarding the lack of acceptance of a relationship between two people who do not typically associate in such a way; however, this is something that differs from American youth today. While there is still a minority of those who do not support inter-racial marriages and relationships, it is generally socially acceptable. …show more content…
The characters in Sepet did this as well as they went back and forth speaking Malay, Mandarin, and English. While this a common practice, it does have something to do with the principle of situational identity. While with his friends, Jason may speak some English; however, when he is around his family it appears as though he speaks only Mandarin. Okred, however, tends to code switch even around her family, making it appear as though her family does have a higher prestige or education level because they are able to speak English. Another example of situational identity presented in the film appears very slightly, but enough to make an impact. When at home, Okred is shown wearing more coverage when appropriate; however, when she goes out she has no head covering. Similarly, when she is around her friends and ex-boyfriend towards the end of the film, she is shown wearing “western” clothing. Because her dress changes depending on where she is present or what she is doing, Okred can be identified as an example of situational