ABSTRACT

Puspita, Rani. 2025 : The Process of Self-Acceptance Portrayed in The
Substance Film (2024) by Coralie Fargeat

Supervisor I : Firdiansyah, S.S.,M.A
Supervisor II : Al Amin, S.Hum.,M.A

Self-acceptance refers to an individual’s ability to acknowledge and
embrace both their strengths and weaknesses without self-judgment. This research
aims to analyze the process and effect of self-acceptance portrayed in Coralie
Fargeat's The Substance. The approach used is a literary psychology with a
qualitative descriptive method. This research refers to the five stages of grief theory
by Kubler Ross (1973) to describe the process of self-acceptance in the main
character of The Substance, and the effect of self-acceptance of Najwa Zebian
(2016) portrayed in the film. The data collection technique was done through
documentation, in the form of a film dialog that represents self-acceptance. The
results showed that; (1) the process of self-acceptance portrayed in this movie went
through the phases of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance; and (2)
the effects of self-acceptance are clearly seen in the main character, as it brings
internal peace and happiness, having better mental health, career and relations. This
movie shown self-acceptance as a form of the importance of accepting oneself and
being authentic. The film criticizes social pressure and beauty standards that force
individuals, especially women, to sacrifice their true selves in order to look ideal.
Through this critique, the movie encourages the courage to remain true to oneself
despite the demands of society.
Keywords : Self Acceptance, Process, The Substance