How Poor Translation Services Ruin TV Shows

Coming to Netflix on 20th September, Criminal is a hugely ambitious series; comprising of 12 different stories set across four countries. It is also filmed in four different languages; English, French, Spanish and German. While it is a completely unique and simple concept in theory, British critics have noted that the subtitles often don’t translate word-for-word. A review by the Metro revealed that the actors were saying one thing but the subtitles didn’t match. In fact, at some points the English dubbed version sounded “a little like an audiobook”; prompting the need for translation services.

While there is often room for interpretation for translating subtitles, the differences between subtitles and dubbing can be distracting for the viewers. That’s why producers should utilise expert video subtitling services by a reputable translation company.

Why It’s Important To Subtitle Videos

As a producer, you want your viewers to understand exactly what’s going on. This ensures they don’t get confused or miss any important details. For example, if a Spanish-speaking person is watching a series in English, they may stop watching because they cannot understand the story. However, if the video included Spanish subtitles, it will be easier to understand and the user won’t click off. By adding professional subtitles to your TV show, you are building a bridge globally between your show and its audience. This will help you to grow your TV show into an international phenomenon with the likes of Friends, Game of Thrones and The Simpsons.

Here at Absolute Translations; one of the UK’s leading providers of translation services, we provide a professional video subtitling service. With a team of translators across the globe, we deliver the translation and interpretation of over 200 languages. We also offer an all-inclusive service which involves closed captioning, digital subtitling, content production and post-production support. Some of our previous clients include: Channel 5, The Walt Disney Company and the Natural History Museum.

Our global team pride themselves on being able to provide reliable, high-quality translation services for businesses across the world. We are one of the first companies in the UK to receive the latest ISO 17100:2015 certification. For more information about our video subtitling translation services, get in touch with our team on 0333 577 0767 or email us on main@absolutetranslations.com.