PORTRAYAL OF WORKING-CLASS RELATIONS AND WORKERS’ RIGHTS IN CONTEMPORARY CINEMA: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF “CROSS ROAD” AND “FORGOTTEN LOVE”

This paper analyzes the portrayal of working-class relations and workers’ rights in contemporary cinema through “Cross Road” and “Forgotten Love” using Marxist theory. It examines capitalism, labor exploitation, and class struggle as depicted in the lives of blue-collar workers. Using content analysis, the study evaluates narrative themes, character dynamics, and socio-economic contexts in each film, examining blue-collar workers’ experiences of exploitation, conflict, and their fight for justice. The methodology is grounded in Marxist theory, which provides a critical framework for analyzing themes related to capitalism, labor exploitation, and class struggle as they are depicted through narrative and visual elements in contemporary cinema. The findings highlight the nuanced portrayal of working-class struggles while also noting limitations in addressing the root causes of exploitation and the potential for change. The paper argues for the relevance of Marxist theory in advocating for a more equitable society, emphasizing the need for critical engagement with film representations of labor politics and social justice.