In this episode, SuperLutheran and Myles discuss media localization and translation. If you’re into anime at all, you’ll know what this is about and the dire state of media localization in the western world. But before we jump into that, head out to the concession stand and grab yourself some Popcorn N’ Soda!
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Another quality episode. Although I am a Sub Appreciator myself, I have to admit there are a handful of Dubs that are able to equal or almost-equal the originals. Like Lupin Part 2, for instance. And I want good dubs/localizations to exist for the sake of people who DO enjoy watching anime that way, so that more people can enjoy the stuff I like. I’d be upset if the Dungeon Meshi anime were poorly dubbed (especially as I may be saving some pocket change for when the series has finished airing…)
That Sailor Moon outro reminded me, however, of the best dub ever: the German-language version of the Sailor Moon theme. I’ve had it stuck in my head for years and I barely speak German.
There’s a Japanese equivalent for using puns in given names for Old English.
For example: if I were to localize Bocchi’s name as a reference to Hitoribocchi “All alone” in English, I would name her Anne (Short for Annesley), which is derived from Old English anne (lonely) and lēah (meadow) meaning “Lonely meadow wanderer” or “Loner Leyley” as a close nickname for Hitoribocchi.
Even using Ashley as an alternate for Annesly can work (As commonly done). In Old English, æsc (ash) and lēah (ley) translates to “Dweller of the ash tree meadow”, which gives off a pretty lonely vibe for the character as well.
This is just one example, but translating puns can be done in English, localizers just have to be creative, but this is probably asking too much….