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Lilico's body image insecurity in Helter Skelter (2012)
The aim of this thesis is to investigate the portrayal of body image insecurity in the Japanese film Helter Skelter (2012) through its protagonist, Lilico. This thesis also aims to examine the ways she copes with her insecurity of her body image. Drawing on Self Discrepancy Theory (Higgins, 1987) and Neurotic Needs Theory (Horney, 1942), this research analyzes how Lilico's insecurity develops and influences her actions throughout the film. The study finds that Lilico's body image insecurity is portrayed through obsessive body checking, dependence on beauty procedures, and fear of losing superiority in physical appearance. These behaviors reflect the discrepancy between her actual self, and ought to self. Furthermore, the study finds that her insecurity leads to seeking external validation, manipulating others for personal gain, and avoiding public presence. These behaviors are understood as neurotic coping strategies used to manage anxiety within insecurity that are caused by threats to her beauty and social status. The study concludes that Lilico's insecurity of her body image contributes to her psychological distress.
Program English for Creative Industry
Universitas Kristen Petra
2026
English
S1
A Critical Thesis
A Critical Thesis No. 01012504/ING/2026; Amertya Reiko Wang (A11220001)
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