Andrew Cheng

Linguist Andrew Cheng, a professor at the University of Hawaii specializing in sociolinguistics, delves into the intriguing ways accents shift over time, especially among YouTubers influenced by geographic moves. He discusses second dialect acquisition, demonstrating how individuals can adopt new speech patterns while retaining their originals. The conversation also emphasizes the fluidity of vowels and how social contexts shape speech modifications, highlighting the dynamic relationship between language and identity.

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.