Chilling Narratives: How ‘Ice Cold’ Shapes Public Discourse

A frozen brew that stirred minds

Anastasia Aulia
3 min readOct 8, 2023

In examining the impact of Netflix’s documentary ‘Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee and Jessica Wongso’ on public discourse and its potential influences on the Indonesian criminal justice system, several key insights emerge. This documentary exemplifies the profound role that media plays in shaping narratives, influencing opinions, and fostering societal change.

Framing and agenda setting stand out as fundamental mechanisms through which media influences public discourse. Documentaries like ‘Ice Cold’ possess the power to frame stories, emphasizing certain elements while leaving others in the shadows. The deliberate shift in focus from Jessica Wongso to Edi Darmawan Salihin (Mirna’s father) exemplifies how media can craft narrative. Consequently, viewers may formulate their perspectives based on the information presented to them, often without the comprehensive context that the full story would provide.

Influence on Public Discourse

Selective information dissemination further underscores media’s impact. ‘Ice Cold’ chose specific interviews and moments, aligning with a particular narrative or theme. This selectivity guides public discourse by highlighting particular aspects of the story while leaving others obscured. Viewers may from their perspectives based on this presented information, often without the comprehensive context needed for a holistic undestanding.

Media outlets often have distinct agendas, whether political, social, or economic. Documentaries as such can subtly or explicitly promote particular viewpoints or ideas. The docu’s focus raises significant questions about the Indonesian criminal justice system and its capacity to ensure fair and just trials. If we hypothetically consider Jessica’s case as reasonable doubt exists, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential flaws and shortcomings that may permeate the entire system. Media, thus, acts as a tool for advocasy and activism, influencing public opinion and catalyzing societal change.

Impact on Perception, International Influence, and Policy

Beyond shaping narratives, media can significantly mold public perceptions of individuals. ‘Ice Cold’ portrays Edi Darmawan Salihin (Mirna’s father) as a central figure with questionable actions, sparking public debates about his character and motivations. This framing of individuals within media narratives carries lasting consequences, impacting public opinion and, potentially legal outcomes.

The internaional reach of media, particularly through global platforms like Netflix, introduces a global dimension to the influence of documentaries. ‘Ice Cold’ captured the attention of not only Indonesian viewers but also a worldwide audience. Consequently, it can influence international discussions and policies on multiple topics surrounding the issue. Viewers of ‘Ice Cold’ shared their perspectives, theories, and interpretations on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit. Social media facilitates collective discourse, enabling individuals to engage in dialogue, disseminate information, and further shape public discourse. It may potentially influence future legislation and policy discussions, showcasing the real-world impact of media content.

Media’s influence extends beyond mere entertainment and provoke a collective demand for transparency, accountability, and reform within the legal system. It underscores the potential role of media as a powerful advocate for justice, shedding light on the need for improved safeguards to prevent wrongful convictions and miscarriages of justice.

This hypothetical perspective on Jessica’s case serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the broader societal implications of media’s influence on public discourse and the criminal justice system. It emphasizes the responsibility of media to hold institutions accountable and highlights the role of informed and engaged citizens in demanding a fair and just legal system. In this scenario, media becomes a driving force for change, fostering a culture of accountability and ensuring that justice is truly served for all. Understanding these dynamics is imperative in the modern era where media's reach and influence continue to expand.

--

--

Anastasia Aulia
Anastasia Aulia

No responses yet