Directive Speech Act Strategies In Investigator Interrogations Of Witnesses In The Film “Dendam Malam Kelam”

Abstract

This study examined the use of directive speech acts in the interrogation dialogues of the film Dendam Malam Kelam. The study aimed to identify the types of directive speech acts employed by the investigator and to explain the linguistic strategies used to influence and guide the witness’s responses. The method applied was a descriptive qualitative approach, utilizing a listen-and-record technique to analyze the interrogation dialogues in the film. The results indicated that the investigator employed several types of directive speech acts, including commands, requests, leading questions, and indirect coercive expressions that implicitly constrained the witness’s responses. Furthermore, the investigator systematically applied politeness strategies and structured turn-taking control to regulate the flow of conversation, ensuring that the interaction remained aligned with the objectives of the interrogation.