SLANG AS A MECHANISM FOR GENERATING HUMOR IN ALVIN

AND THE CHIPMUNKS

(A Content Analysis of Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip Movie)

A THESIS PROPOSAL

Presented as Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements to Obtain Bachelor’s

Degree in Education (S.Pd.)

LOGO UNIV

by:
PUTRI SANDRA
(STUDENT NUMBER)

INSTITUTION
2023
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

The researcher divides this chapter into four parts. Those are research

background, research questions, research objectives and research significance.

The researcher elaborates the four points as follows:

1.1. Research Background

Watching film has become inseparable habit from this generation…

“Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip” is a 2015 American live-

action/animated jukebox musical comedy film directed by Walt Becker. It

serves as the fourth and final installment in the Alvin and the Chipmunks

live-action film series, following the 2011 film “Alvin and the Chipmunks:

Chipwrecked.” The main cast includes Jason Lee, Tony Hale, Kimberly

Williams-Paisley, and Josh Green, with voice performances by Justin Long,

Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney, Kaley Cuoco, Anna Faris, and

Christina Applegate.

The plot revolves around the Chipmunks—Alvin, Simon, and

Theodore—who embark on a road trip to Miami. They believe that their

guardian, Dave, will propose to his new girlfriend, Samantha, and fear that

this will lead to them gaining a terrible stepbrother, as Samantha’s son Miles

has been bullying them. The film follows their misadventures as they attempt

to reach Dave and prevent the proposal.

The movie was released on December 18, 2015, and grossed $234

million worldwide against a budget of $90 million. Despite receiving

generally negative reviews from critics, it was considered a slight

improvement over its predecessor.

In the movie, there are so many slangs used throughout the film. In

the comedic world, slang serves as an important element, enriching dialogues

with an informal and colloquial flair that captivates and resonates with

audiences. The dynamic nature of slang contributes a unique flavor to humor,

triggering engagement and relatability.

The root problem being investigated in this study is the contribution

of slang to the humor in the animated film “Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road

Chip.” The study aims to explore the specific ways in which slang terms and

expressions are used by the characters to create comedic effects and elicit

laughter from the audience.

This study is dedicated to a nuanced exploration of the animated

movie "Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip," specifically focusing on the

intricate use of slang and its profound impact on the film's comedic essence.

The research aims to conduct a thorough linguistic analysis, unraveling the

layers of humor embedded in the dialogue and lyrics of the film. Moreover, a

keen examination of the cultural background associated with the diverse slang

employed in various situations will provide valuable insights into the film's

nuanced comedic dynamics.

By diving deeper into the linguistic and cultural dimensions of slang

usage, this study seeks to unveil the multifaceted role that slang plays in

shaping the humor within the cinematic narrative. From its ability to establish
 character relatability to its function in creating situational comedy, the

exploration of slang in "Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip" promises a

deeper understanding of how these linguistic nuances contribute to the overall

comedic impact of animated films.

1.2. Research Questions

Referring to the explanation above, the researcher formulates three

research questions, as follows:

1. What are the different types of slang used in the movie "Alvin and The Chi

pmunks: Road Chip"?

2. How does the use of slang contribute to the humor in the movie?

1.3. Research Objectives

Based on the research questions above, the objectives of the study are as

follows:

1. To identify the different types of slang used in the movie "Alvin and The

Chipmunks: Road Chip.

2. To investigate how the use of slang contributes to the humor in the movie.

1.4. Research Significance

The result of this study is expected to give significant contribution both in

theoretical and practical domains:

1.4.1. Theoretical Significance

The study will contribute to the understanding of humor theories,

particularly in the context of animated films. It can provide insights into

how different types of slang align with established humor theories such as
 incongruity, relief, and superiority.

1.4.2. Practical Significance

(a) For the Content Creators

The findings of the study can be valuable for content creators,

writers, and filmmakers, as it can offer practical guidance on the

effective use of slang to enhance humor in animated films. This

can have implications for the creative development of comedic

content in the entertainment industry.

(b) For the next researcher

This study will provide comprehensive understanding regarding

the use of humor in animated movies. Hopefully, the findings of

the research can be used as valuable reference to conduct research

in the related field by other researchers.

1.5. Research Scope and Limitation

The research will adopt a content analysis methodology to scrutinize the

application of slang in the movie "Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip" and

its implications for the humor embedded within the film. A crucial component

of this analysis involves the identification and categorization of the slang

terms utilized in the dialogue, with a meticulous examination of their

contextual usage and their contribution to humor generation. Drawing on

established humor theories such as incongruity, relief, and superiority, the

study aims to unravel the nuanced ways in which slang functions as a comedic

device in the animated narrative.

 Furthermore, the research will delve into the cultural relevance of the

movie, considering the specific cultural context and the target audience to

discern how slang is perceived and employed within these distinct settings.

Despite the insightful contributions anticipated from this focused analysis, it is

essential to acknowledge certain limitations. Firstly, the study confines its

analysis to a single movie, recognizing that this may not provide a holistic

understanding of the role of slang in all animated films or comedic genres.

Nonetheless, this limitation presents an avenue for future research to explore

the diverse applications of slang in various cinematic contexts. Secondly, the

data collection process is restricted to the animated movie "Alvin and The

Chipmunks: Road Chip," potentially limiting the generalizability of findings

to a broader animated film landscape. Lastly, the study acknowledges the

necessity of making certain generalizations about audience responses to slang

in humor generation, which may impact the precision of the conclusions

drawn.
 CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter presents the theories of the topics related to this study. These would

become the important aspects to consider and used as a guideline when

conducting this research. The theoretical review regarding textbook—including

definition, its role in the classroom, selection; preference—definition of

preference, factors influencing preference; and textbooks by private-sector

publishers.

2.1. Slang

Slang, a linguistic phenomenon, arises from the dynamic evolution

of language and reflects the social dynamics within a society. In the

Indonesian context, slang is commonly referred to as "bahasa gaul" and

predominantly finds usage among the younger demographic during

informal conversations. As elucidated by Hutabarat et al. (2020), slang is

characterized as a non-standard form of language specifically employed in

non-formal situations. This unique linguistic expression not only mirrors

the fluid nature of language development but also signifies a distinct mode

of communication shaped by cultural and social factors. The utilization of

slang thus becomes a noteworthy aspect of linguistic diversity, acting as a

vibrant and evolving component within the linguistic tapestry of a given

community.

2.1.1. Function

Slang can be classified into seven functions as mentioned by Allan

 and Burridge (2006) as cited in Yusuf (2022): starting a relaxed

conversation, expressing an impression, creating an intimate atmosphere,

addressing, abusing others, humiliating, and expressing intimacy. These

are further divided into five types: fresh and creative, flippant, imitative,

acronym, and clipping.

2.1.2. Kinds of Slang

According to Guth (1961-95), there are two forms of slang which include:

 Figurative expression form, this form is an expansion of the meaning

of a word or group of words to obtain a certain effect by associating

two things.

 Nicknames (someone's nickname) are given names related to their

specialty.

2.2. Humor

Humor is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been defined in

various ways across different academic disciplines. According to Ford et al.

(2018), humor is described as inherently ironic and difficult to precisely

define, yet it is a topic of popular interest that has captured the imagination

and critical attention of scholars from multiple disciplines. The article

suggests that humor plays an integral role in the human experience and that

rigorous scholarly inquiry can illuminate its functions for psychological and

physical well-being.

Another source, Scheel (2017), provides an overview of humor

definitions, which range from a communicative activity with positive

 emotional reactions in perceivers to an individual trait such as a sense of

humor or cheerfulness. Humor is seen as multidimensional and includes the

abilities to produce, recognize, and appreciate humor, as well as to use humor

as a coping strategy.

Additionally, humor has been defined as ‘the quality of being funny’ and

refers to an ability to perceive and express a sense of the clever or amusing

thing (Asika, 2017). It consists principally in the recognition and expression

of incongruities or peculiarities present in a situation or character.

2.3. Animation

Animation is defined as a theoretical construct that can be used as a

basis for further study of the field. It is considered a separate category in

academic research due to its growing presence in media, especially with

the emergence of new media. Animation is a tool for blurring the

distinction between reality and representation, often through its blending

into other forms of media (van Rooij, 2019).

The term “animation” has evolved over time, particularly in the

early decades of cinema’s existence. It signifies major shifts in production,

distribution, and exhibition. The historical moment at which longer,

fictional films became the chief attraction on the film bill impacted

animated films, leading to the standardization of the cel process for

animation (Curtis, 2019).

Animation is at the heart of cinema, ranging from traditional

 neoclassicism to high-end effects movies. It has been most associated with

the American animated cartoon, following the pioneering work of early

animators (Dobson, 2020). Some argue that all cinema is a form of

animation, as it involves the manipulation of images to create the illusion

of movement

2.3.1. Intersection of Animation and Slang

The intersection of animation and slang forms a dynamic and

intriguing realm within the study of media and language. Animation, as a

visual storytelling medium, often relies on linguistic elements such as

slang to characterize personalities, infuse humor, and reflect cultural

nuances. Slang, being an informal and playful mode of language, finds

resonance in animated narratives, contributing to the creation of distinct

character identities and reinforcing relatability for audiences.

This convergence is evident in prior research, such as Bondarenko's

(2019) exploration of slang in animated films, where slang is identified as

a vital component influencing character traits and humor within the

cartoon narrative. The use of slang in animated content adds layers to

character portrayal and contributes to the overall tone and atmosphere of

the story.

Understanding the intersection of animation and slang involves

recognizing the symbiotic relationship between visual storytelling and

linguistic expression. Slang, being inherently dynamic and reflective of

cultural shifts, aligns seamlessly with the vibrant and imaginative nature of
 animated worlds. This intersection not only enhances the entertainment

value of animated content but also provides a lens through which societal

attitudes and linguistic trends can be observed and analyzed within the

context of popular media.

2.4.Previous Study

Prior to embarking on the present research, it is essential to

acknowledge relevant studies within the same domain. Bondarenko's

(2019) investigation delves into the role of slang in contemporary

animated films (Madagascar 2, Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, Open Season,

Cars) and probes into translation strategies. This study, based on film

scripts featuring 163 slang examples, emphasizes the retention of slang for

characterizing protagonists and enhancing cartoon humor. Employing

componential analysis, Bondarenko's research suggests potential

universality for translation, unveiling common strategies such as stylistic

compensation (50.3%) and literal translation (44.7%), while recognizing

instances of unavoidable neutralization (4.9% omission, 0.1% cultural

equivalence).

In a different vein, Dobrow's (1998) article focuses on character

and dialect portrayal in children's animated TV, employing trained coders

to analyze visual, behavioral, and linguistic aspects within a sample of a

dozen cartoons across various networks. Dobrow's findings expose the

persistent underrepresentation of people of color and women in children's

animated programming. Additionally, the study highlights the use of

dialect stereotypes to convey gender and ethnicity, particularly noting

villains consistently depicted with non-American accents.

 CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
2.1. Research Design

This research is a qualitative study that aims to understand the use of slang

for generating humor in Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip movie.

According to Creswell (2014), a qualitative study is an approach for exploring

and understanding the meaning individuals or groups ascribe to a social or

human problem. The process involves collecting data in a natural setting

sensitive to the people and places under study, and then analyzing the

information for themes that emerge. This means that the research should

conduct the research intensively, meaning that the researcher must conduct

research until the researcher gets a well understanding regarding the problem.

The qualitative study will provide in-depth insights into the use of slang for

generating humor.

2.2. Population and Sample

The population for this study encompasses the entirety of the movie

“Alvin and The Chipmunks: Road Chip”, including all dialogue and visual

content. The focus is on the language used by the characters, specifically the

slang that contributes to the humor in the film. The sample will consist of

selected scenes and dialogues from the movie that prominently feature slang

and are intended to generate humor. The selection criteria for these samples

will be based on:

 Relevance
 Scenes that are central to the movie’s plot and contain clear

examples of slang.

 Frequency

Dialogues that repeatedly use slang terms, indicating their

importance in the comedic narrative.

 Variety

A range of different types of slang, representing various aspects of

the characters’ personalities and backgrounds.

2.3. Research Setting

The research is scheduled to commence in December and will span a

period of approximately three months, concluding by the end of February.

This timeline has been carefully planned to ensure that all phases of the

research process are thoroughly completed within the allotted timeframe. The

research activities will include the initial data collection, the meticulous

analysis of the collected data, and the subsequent interpretation of the

findings.

During this period, the researcher will engage in a series of systematic

steps designed to address the research questions effectively. These steps

encompass the formulation of a detailed research plan, the selection and

training of any research assistants if necessary, and the establishment of clear

protocols for data management and analysis.

 It is anticipated that by the conclusion of February, all essential

components of the research will have been executed to satisfaction. This

includes the completion of data analysis, the synthesis of the research

findings, and the drafting of the final report. The final report will encapsulate

the research outcomes, providing insights and conclusions drawn from the

data. It is expected that the report will be prepared for dissemination, ready to

contribute valuable knowledge to the field of study.

2.4. Data Collection Method

The data collection for this research will be conducted with a focus on

cinematic content, specifically examining the use of slang within the film’s

dialogue. To capture the nuances of slang usage, the researcher will

meticulously select several key scenes from the film that prominently feature

slang terms. These scenes will be captured in the form of screenshots, which

will serve as the primary data for analysis.

Once the screenshots have been collected, the researcher will undertake

the process of transcription. This involves converting the visual content of the

screenshots into a textual format, thereby creating a comprehensive script of

the dialogue that includes the slang expressions. The transcription will be done

with great attention to detail to ensure that the context and meaning of the

slang are preserved.

 Following the transcription, the researcher will employ content analysis as

the methodological approach for examining the data. This will involve a

systematic review of the transcribed text to identify and categorize the various

instances of slang. The analysis will aim to uncover patterns of slang usage, its

functions within the dialogue, and its contribution to character development

and plot progression.

The content analysis will be guided by a set of predefined coding

categories, which may include the type of slang used, frequency of

occurrence, characters involved, and the situational context. These categories

will help in organizing the data and facilitating a deeper understanding of the

role slang plays in the film.

Through this methodical approach to data collection and analysis, the

researcher aims to provide a thorough exploration of slang within the film’s

narrative. The findings are expected to offer valuable insights into the

linguistic and cultural aspects of slang, as well as its impact on

communication and storytelling in cinema.

2.5. Data Analysis Technique

In this study, the researcher uses content analysis to analyze the data.

Content analysis, as defined by Elo (2014), is a systematic and objective

means of describing and quantifying phenomena. It is a method used for

analyzing qualitative data, where the focus is on identifying patterns, themes,

and meanings within the content being analyzed. This approach is commonly
used in various fields such as nursing science, social sciences, and

communication studies to interpret the meaning of qualitative material in a

systematic and replicable manner. With content analysis, the result will be

presented in the form of words or texts. The steps in conducting content

analysis are as follows (Luo, 2016):

1) Step 1: Develop Research Questions

Start by formulating clear and defined research questions. This will

guide the entire content analysis process and determine what

you’re looking for in the data.

2) Step 2: Identify and Collect Data

Gather the qualitative data relevant to your research questions. This

could include interviews, articles, social media posts, etc. Ensure

the sample size is sufficient to represent the population1.

3) Step 3: Determine Coding Categories

Decide on the categories you’ll use to code the data. These could

be based on themes, words, phrases, or concepts that are relevant to

your research questions.

4) Step 4: Code the Data

Systematically work through your collected data, assigning pieces

of content to the predetermined categories. This can be done

manually or with the help of software.

5) Step 5: Analyze the Coded Data

Examine the coded data for patterns and trends. Look for
 frequency, relationships, and any other insights that can answer

your research questions.

6) Step 6: Interpret the Results

Draw conclusions from the analysis. Consider how the findings

relate to your research questions and the broader context of your

study.

7) Step 7: Present the Findings

Finally, present your findings in a structured format. This could be

a written report, a presentation, or any other format suitable for

your audience.
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