Date of Publication

4-4-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts Major in Communication Arts

Subject Categories

Film and Media Studies

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Communication

Thesis Advisor

Eleazar L. Del Rosario

Defense Panel Member

Danzen S. Katanyag
Gerardo A. Mariano
ristoffer G. Brugada

Abstract/Summary

The Sensation of a Scale-Breaking Superstar is a short narrative film that discusses the marginalization of plus-sized individuals in “appearance-reliant” industries through Eisha, who dreams of becoming a P-pop idol. It focuses on the deep-rooted issues and behaviors caused by fatphobia that damages plus-sized individuals’ self-esteem, their chances of employment, and quality of life.

Despite the push for inclusivity across various fields, the K-pop industry—along with its companies and consumers—continues to uphold unrealistic body standards, reinforce the male gaze, and a toxic fan culture dictating idol perception. This successfully alienates individuals who are outside these standards, fostering “othering” and exclusivity in the entertainment industry, and creating unsafe environments that perpetuate bigoted ideals.

As the Philippines follows these global standards, the feature also emphasizes the increasing concern about how the P-pop industry emulates the K-pop methodology and therefore extends these beliefs to our media. Following a three-act structure, the film aims to be a counter-discourse to this ongoing exclusivity, portraying a character establishing herself in a company and an audience that deems her unfit, but choosing herself and her dream without compromising who she is. The film highlights the transformation of Eisha from a hopeful trainee (pre-debut) to a distraught individual (due to maltreatment), and finally, a performer, empowered by her experiences.

The project’s clips were produced and shot in person for consistent filming quality in MP4 Format.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Short films—Production and direction; Overweight persons

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Embargo Period

4-3-2025

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