From Street to Elite: Analyzing Politeness Strategies in a Socially Divided Bronx in Vampires vs. The Bronx

Abstract

This study aims to (1) identify the types of politeness strategies and speech acts used by characters in the film Vampires vs. the Bronx and (2) analyze how these strategies reflect the characters’ social class backgrounds. Using a qualitative descriptive approach within a single case study framework, the research examines linguistic data from the film’s dialogues. Data were selected through purposive sampling based on relevant criteria and collected via document analysis and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Validity was ensured through triangulation of data sources and methods. The findings reveal that characters from lower social classes often use positive politeness strategies, marked by Black-English dialect greetings, particularly in directive speech acts. In contrast, characters from higher social classes frequently use off-record strategies, reflecting cunning and negative traits, predominantly in assertive and expressive speech acts. These results highlight the interplay between language use and social class distinctions, offering insights into power dynamics and social identity as depicted in media. This study contributes to sociolinguistic and media research by demonstrating how speech acts and politeness strategies can reflect broader societal structures and power relations.