Netflix has become one of the most popular streaming Platforms around the world due to the wide range of content it offers in Multiple Languages. However, despite their efforts to provide Accurate translations, sometimes they can make mistakes that are quite striking to the detailed, exhaustive and even obsessive eyes of us, Language Lovers. In this article, you’ll explore with us some of the Translation errors that have occurred in the Netflix series.
- Lost in Translation: One of the most common mistakes in Netflix translations is the loss of cultural and linguistic nuances. Clichés, puns, and cultural references often get lost in translation, which can significantly impact the viewer’s understanding and experience. For example, in Stranger Things, Dustin’s character uses the expression “Lando Calrissian” to refer to something cool. In Spanish, the literal translation of this expression does not capture the cultural nuance, as many Spanish-speaking viewers may not be familiar with the character Lando Calrissian from Star Wars.
- False friends: False friends are words that sound similar in two languages but have completely different meanings. These translation errors can lead to comical or confusing situations for the viewer. For example, the word “pregnant” in Spanish does not mean “embarrassed” in English, as it was mistranslated in the series Jane the Virgin.
- Blunders, not grammar mistakes in the series of the singer Luis Miguel, a very common Andalusian expression was translated very badly. One character would say to another, “I’m sorry, this is my weapon,” but the original line in Spanish was “I’m sorry, ‘my weapon,” which totally changes the meaning of the dialogue between the characters.
- To translate or not to translate? Whether to translate the title of a series or not is a decision that is made by the marketing departments of the production companies, and they are the ones who determine if translating the title of a series into Spanish affects its dividends. So, if translating the name of the series doesn’t encourage the viewer to consume the product, it’s not translated. An example of a failed title translation is the Iron Fist series. In some Spanish-speaking countries, this series was translated as “Puño de hierro” and, although the series received mixed reviews, many felt that it did not live up to expectations, so it could be considered a translation associated with a failed series.
While these mistakes may be entertaining to some, it’s important to remember that the quality of translations has a significant impact on the viewer’s experience. The good news is that Netflix and other platforms are increasingly aware of the importance of offering accurate and culturally sensitive translations.
In short, translation errors in Netflix series are an inexhaustible source of curious and funny anecdotes for language lovers. However, they also remind us of the importance of having qualified professionals who are aware of the linguistic and cultural complexities when translating for a global audience.
Have you noticed any translation errors in your favorite Netflix series? Share your experiences with us in the comments!