International Film and Audio-Visual Translation: Intercultural Experience as Moderator in Audience Recall and Enjoyment

• In Event: Intercultural Communication and Media: Bridging the Research Divide

Abstract

This study examines cognitive and affective outcomes of exposure to international film content that has been subtitled vs. dubbed. Past research looking at the pros and cons of subtitling and dubbing has investigated issues of valid language translation, issues of cultural reference transference, and the benefits of subtitling for foreign language learning. Based on previous research (e.g., Wissmath, Weibel, & Groner, 2009), this study queried whether recall and enjoyment outcomes differ between subtitled and dubbed versions of the same moving image content. Results show no superiority of one version over the other in simple outcomes; however, several significant interactions demonstrate the moderating impact of intercultural experience constructs. Specifically, those spectators with family foreign language experience have higher visual and dialogue recall outcomes with subtitling, and those with greater overall intercultural exposure report greater enjoyment with subtitling.

Authors

• Kara Rader, Ohio State U

• Kimberly Neuendorf, Cleveland State U

• Paul Skalski, Cleveland State U