Analysing speech acts: Deception & self-disclosure in the film ‘Catch me if you can’ (2002)

Lim, Ai Lyen (2024) Analysing speech acts: Deception & self-disclosure in the film ‘Catch me if you can’ (2002). Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

J. R. Searle’s Speech Act Theory (1979) is a robust framework used to analyse communication, intention, and effect. Applying this theory, the present study explores the intricate interplay between speech acts, deception, and self-disclosure within the film ‘Catch Me If You Can’ (2002). Despite the film’s critical acclaim, a detailed examination of how speech acts are used to achieve different goals is lacking. This research bridges this gap by addressing how speech acts facilitate the main character, Frank Jr.’s ability to deceive different characters and how it contributed to his eventual arrest. A qualitative approach was employed to study Frank Jr.’s speech acts in the screenplay. Deceptive events and instances of self-disclosure were identified and categorised upon cross-referencing the published screenplay with the film. Content analysis was utilised for data analysis of speech acts as well as non-verbal elements. Utilising Searle’s Five Categories of Speech Acts for coding, the analysis also accounts for the locutionary and perlocutionary acts of speech acts. Findings suggest that representative, directive, expressive, and commissive speech acts were the most prevalent in scenes of deception. These speech acts were supported with non-verbal strategies such as facial expressions and attire. The instances where declarative speech acts were used compromised Frank Jr.’s information, leading to his apprehension. Additionally, it was found that all speech acts were used in acts of self-disclosure, highlighting its imperceptible nature in daily conversation. In short, this study has underscored the significance of linguistic analysis in deciphering complex narratives to enhance comprehension of communication behaviour. Insights garnered contributes to the field of linguistics and film studies, while also offering insights into broader societal issues surrounding human interaction.

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