Translation as a Profession (Benjamins Translation Library)

Chapter 2. Categories of translation 498. The translator reads the presentation of the characters, the story and thescript.9. The translator creates the subtitles (translates). This is usually referred toas ‘adapting’ the subtitles. The main limitation here is the speed at whichthe viewer can read the subtitles, compared with the speed of speech, whichmeans that the subtitles have to be condensed accordingly.10. The translator produces a subtitle file or keys the subtitles in if the softwareso warrants.11. The translator proofreads and checks the subtitle.12. The translator makes any necessary correction.13. Simulation [a sort of trial run where the subtitles are integrated into thevideotape] provides the opportunity to view the subtitles in real time and tocheck that they ‘fit in’, are accurate, visible, readable, ‘good’ and efficient anddo not contravene any of the rules of the art [e.g. no shot change overruns].The simulation phase is usually carried out in the presence of all the variouspeople involved in the making of the film or video (director, producer, etc.).Simulation may include synchronisation of the copy to be subtitled and thesubtitled copy (synchronisation is checked shot by shot, changes in the size orposition of the subtitles may be made, unreadable subtitles are repositioned,etc.)14. If need be, the translator corrects, adapts, modifies the translation, in whichcase a new simulation will be carried out.15. The subtitles are validated.16. The subtitles are transferred to film according to the chosen technique (e.g.burning, engraving, other) and a master copy is created.17. If required, the film is specially processed to ensure optimum subtitle quality.18. The final product is viewed and passed for release once the quality is approvedNote: Live subtitling for the deaf and hearing-impaired does not require translationas the aim is to display a written version of dialogue or voice over commentary.This may imply some degree of simplification and the loss of specific featuressuch as regional accents. The subtitles are displayed according to a conventionalcolour code so that viewers know which words are meant to be dialogue, internalmonologue or voice-over commentary.b) OvertitlingOvertitling refers to the technique used in some operas and theatres, where theactors’ or singers’ words are displayed above the stage. This is the ‘live’ equivalentof subtitling, except that the words must be synchronised manually with the actiontaking place on stage. The overtitler will obviously use the libretto and, wheneverpossible, existing translations of the work, but the titles have to be adapted to the