Subtitles have often been seen as a controversial preference when movie-watching. Some people need them, and others despise them. When the movie you’re watching is in a completely different language, though, they’re pretty necessary. While watching movies in a foreign language may have been uncommon a decade ago, it now seems the media language barrier is crumbling, a change that is positive on so many levels.
Another benefit to consuming media from other countries is simply being exposed to diversity on all scales. Western media is often lacking in racial diversity, so watching films or TV shows from other countries can provide that much needed exposure. Also, you’re seeing these cultures through an authentic lens and not a western perspective of a culture, which may often have exaggerated stereotypes.
As Parasite director Bong Joon Ho said, “Once you overcome the 1-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films.”
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