Script Translation_Lecture One
Script Translation_Lecture One
Chapter One
Dubbing stages
• I. The Unique Nature of Dubbing Translation:
• Non-Definitive Text: The translator's initial work isn't
the final product. It's a foundation that's significantly
modified throughout the dubbing process. This
distinguishes it from many other types of translation.
• Multi-Stage and Collaborative: Dubbing involves
numerous, interconnected stages, akin to a production
line, requiring collaboration between various
professionals.
Dubbing steps detailed
• II. The Dubbing Workflow:
• Pre-production Initiation: The client (TV station, producer, distributor)
sends the film and its original script (if available) to the dubbing studio.
• Translator's Work: The translator, usually independent, creates a
translated script from the original, considering provided instructions
(e.g., song dubbing, subtitles). Availability of a script can vary, and
sometimes relies entirely on the film.
• Proof-reading: The translated script undergoes revision. Some clients
have dedicated proof-readers; others skip this step. The translator is an
independent of the dubbing studio.
Dubbing steps (T.B.C.)
• Synchronization: Translated dialogue is carefully synchronized with
the actors' lip movements. This can be done by the translator, proof-
reader, an actor, or the dubbing director. It requires modification of
the text while staying faithful to the original meaning, even adding
sound effects.
• Production Preparation: The text is physically formatted to facilitate
dubbing (divided into "takes" – segments of up to eight lines with
multiple speakers, five for a single speaker, depending on the agreed
procedure). Timecodes are noted, and a dubbing schedule is created,
assigning actors and takes to specific sessions. Efficiency and cost are
key concerns in this stage.
Dubbing steps (T.B.C.)
• III. The Dubbing Session:
• Director Guidance: The director informs the actors about their roles
and desired performances. The director supervises the performance,
watches for errors in pronunciation or content, and ensures all takes
are completed.
• Further Checks & Edits: In specific cases (Catalan dubbing for TV-3),
the final dubbed product receives a language check for errors, which
if detected, means the process has to be re-recorded.
• Final Touches: Subtitles (if needed) are added. The image and sound
are mixed and coordinated.
Difficulties
• IV. Challenges and Textual Manipulation:
• Dubbing is Complex and Iterative: The initial translation is almost
certain to be altered throughout the process. Audiovisual translation
often involves the most drastic modifications.
• Prioritizing Form Over Content: Since proofreaders and synchronizers
may not understand the original language, the focus shifts to
matching lip movements and other technical constraints, potentially
compromising semantic accuracy.
More to it.
• Examples of Alterations:
• Substituting words to match lip movements, even if slightly less precise.
• Compromising the meaning in exchange for the sound of an English
translation.
• Final Improvisations: The dubbing director or even the actors might
make last-minute changes due to artistic choices or synchronization
problems, always subject to approval.
Key Concerns/Problems
• V. Key Concerns:
• Translation Errors: May stem from using pre-production script or a
misunderstanding of the context (image).
• The human aspect may involve: Difficulties in what was presented
from the director.
• End Result:
• The finished product is polished and adjusted to the needs and the demands
of the medium.
• Team work makes for a unique final version of what was originally given.
Exercise: