Novelas Embracing English Subtitles

By Michael Lopez

Be honest, how well can you really speak Spanish? Even if you’re completely bilingual, there’s a good chance that your kids (and their kids) will have a tougher time keeping up with Español. In fact, research group, Pew Hispanic Center, is saying that 71% of third-generation Latinos claim English as their dominant language. That’s why it’s no surprise that novelas and other Spanish-language programming are starting to embrace subtitles en inglés.

Image: MTV

It’s an interesting move and is already getting put to use on networks like Telemundo. Well-known novelas like Decisiones Extremas and Amor Descarado have experimented with the process, and though it’s not completely clear whether it led to increased ratings, most fan reaction has been positive.

Of course, others have spoken out against the idea. Thomas Ihde, a professor in the Departments of Languages and Literatures at the City University of New York said,

“The second, third generations are losing something by relying on the subtitles. Subtitles encourage passive knowledge. That's part of the tradition in America: losing our ethnic languages in opting for the majority one."

So the question is, would you want to see white text on the bottom of your screen when you watch Juegos Prohibidos? Even we have to admit some of those characters talk pretty fast (especially Nacho’s dad, does he mumble or what?), and there are plenty of positive benefits from the idea. Like using it as a tool for those trying to learn English, since they could see translations for Spanish phrases and words.

Source: [L.A. Times]

Do you think novelas should have English subtitles? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Cultura, Juegos Prohibidos, telenovelas, Television, Tr3s shows