ANALISIS SERIAL DOKUMENTER SPY OPS DALAM MEMBENTUK CITRA AMERIKA SERIKAT

This study analyzes how the documentary series Spy Ops is used as a soft power instrument by the United States in shaping a positive image in the eyes of the international public. Through a dominant depiction from the perspective of CIA agents, intelligence officials, and American military actors, Spy Ops positions America as a professional, strong superpower with a moral mission in every intervention it undertakes. This documentary not only presents reconstructions of intelligence and military operations but also constructs a strategic narrative that emphasizes the values of humanity, democracy, and upholding human rights as the basis for the legitimacy of United States actions. This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques are carried out through content analysis of several Spy Ops episodes that feature United States operations, such as Operation Jawbreaker, Operation Just Cause, Taliban Spies, and Project Azorian. The analysis is conducted by identifying narratives, visuals, and political messages that appear in the documentary. The research findings indicate that Spy Ops functions as an effective nation branding tool. The series frames American interventions as legitimate actions, including through an emphasis on post-conflict humanitarian assistance, civilian protection, and efforts to maintain global security. Thus, Spy Ops plays a role in strengthening the narrative hegemony of the United States while expanding the reach of soft power through popular media as a means of shaping the image of the United States.