Is It Wrong to Watch a Film in a Foreign Language?

Is it wrong to watch a film in a foreign language if you won't understand the language itself? The answer is a definite no.

Subtitles Sherlock

When it comes to engaging with a movie in a language you may not speak, the presence of subtitles is immensely beneficial. Whether you're watching a movie like Sherlock or any other, subtitles ensure that you can still appreciate the narrative and emotional depth without getting bogged down by unfamiliar words.

What You Gain from Watching in a Foreign Language

But why would anyone even consider it? Isn't it about the dialogue? Not necessarily. Most movies have universal themes that resonate with people regardless of the language spoken. The characters' experiences, the visual storytelling, and the overall mood can all contribute to a rich watching experience. Even if you don't understand every word, you can still feel the emotional stakes and appreciate the cinematic artistry.

Capturing the Essence of the Language

While some might argue that dubs and translations can compromise the immediacy of the performances, subtitled foreign films allow you to hear the actors in their own voices. This is especially true for animated films and voice acting. The raw emotion and performance nuances captured through subtitles can sometimes convey the essence of the language and performance even better than a well-rendered dub.

Enjoyment Beyond Language

Language is indeed a crucial medium for understanding movies, as it weaves the verbal narrative with the visual one. However, experience has taught me that emotional resonance can transcend the words themselves. Many films, regardless of the language barrier, are a testament to skillful storytelling and emotional impact. A compelling storyline, coupled with breathtaking visuals, can make the language almost irrelevant.

The Role of Subtitles and Dubbing

Subtitles and dubbing serve different purposes and cater to different preferences. My husband and I have enjoyed Kung Fu Hustle (2004) in both dubbed and subtitled versions. Whenever we watch it, our focus turns to the visual storytelling. The artistry of cinematography and acting often draws us more than the dialogue, as we immerse ourselves in the overall experience.

Furthermore, if we were to limit ourselves to only watching movies in our native language, we would miss out on a substantial portion of world cinema. There are countless masterpieces in foreign languages that we may never discover if we didn't venture beyond what we are familiar with. Foreign language films offer a unique perspective and cultural enrichment that is invaluable.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Recently, I've discovered that two of the best shows I've watched in my native language are:

Gomorrah (Italian) Deutschland 83 (German, 2018–2019)

These shows offered gripping narratives, tense performances, and complex characters that stood out regardless of the language they were consumed in. This experience highlights the power of storytelling and the importance of subtitles in making foreign language films accessible and enjoyable.

So, my advice is simple: embrace the diverse world of cinema that extends beyond your native language. With subtitles at your side, you'll find that the language barrier is not as daunting as it may seem.