Subtitled shows
I've worked on a diverse range of projects, from long-form series to short-form supplements like trailers and teasers. While long-form projects present their own challenges, such as translating lengthy scripts and maintaining consistency across multiple episodes, supplements require a unique skill set. These high-stakes materials must be concise, impactful, and able to capture the essence of the original content.
The diversity of projects I've worked on has exposed me to various genres and formats. Reality shows, with their fast-paced, unscripted nature, pose unique challenges, as does comedy, which often relies on wordplay, puns, and cultural references. Translating humor across languages and cultures is a delicate balance, requiring a deep understanding of both languages and the nuances of comedic timing.
One of the most significant challenges in subtitling is the constant battle between accuracy and brevity. Subtitles must be concise enough to fit within the limited screen space and timing constraints, yet they must also convey the full meaning of the original dialogue. A skilled subtitlist must make careful judgments to balance these competing demands.
Another challenge arises from the use of English as a pivot language. While it's practical to use English as an intermediary language, it can lead to a loss of cultural nuances and meaning. For example, when translating from a language like Korean to Malay, it's often more accurate and effective to work directly from the source language, rather than relying on English translations.
Consider the Korean term "oppa," which can refer to an older brother or a male romantic partner. In English translations, "oppa" is often replaced with a generic term like "Mr. Kim," which fails to capture the specific cultural nuance. By working directly from the Korean source material, a Malay subtitler can accurately convey the meaning of "oppa" in the target language using the term "abang", which shares similar sociocultural meanings of "oppa".
I'm passionate about preserving cultural authenticity in my work. By carefully considering the source language, cultural context, and target audience, I strive to create subtitles that are both accurate and engaging.