Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
From 'Parasite' to 'Emilia Pérez': How movies shape language, with Andrew Cheng
Feb 27, 2025
Dr. Andrew Cheng, a linguistics professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, dives into how films influence language and culture. He discusses the shift towards linguistic realism since 'Parasite' and the growing acceptance of non-English films by the Oscars. Villainous accents in cartoons are critiqued for perpetuating stereotypes, while films like 'Anora' showcase the complexities of heritage language speakers. Cheng also tackles the balance of authenticity and realism in movies like 'Emilia Perez,' highlighting AI's role in shaping vocal performances.
31:28
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Linguistic realism in film is increasingly important as it enhances cultural representation and reflects authentic language use, especially after the success of 'Parasite'.
- The portrayal of various English accents and the ethical implications of using AI highlight the complexities of achieving authenticity in modern filmmaking.
Deep dives
The Concept of Linguistic Realism
Linguistic realism in film refers to the authentic portrayal of language that reflects real-life usage, particularly in dramatic movies based on true events. This trend has gained traction over the past decade, spurred by the critical success of films like 'Parasite,' which won the Best Picture Oscar in 2020. Historically, many films set in non-English speaking countries opted to use English dialogue, undermining the authenticity of the narrative. However, a noticeable shift has occurred, leading to more films embracing non-English dialogues, thereby enhancing cultural and linguistic representation on screen.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
