Squid Game: Subbed or Dubbed - Which Version is Right for You?
'Squid Game' Dubbed vs Subbed - Find out which version of the hit series is right for you Series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk and Taika Waititi weigh in on the debate
The Big Picture
The decision of whether to watch Squid Game dubbed or subbed ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you value different aspects of the viewing experience.
Rewatching the subtitled version permits you to fully enjoy the authentic performances and dialogues, without any modifications, establishing a stronger emotional bond with the narrative and cultural subtleties.
Conversely, opting for the dubbed version can offer a more relaxed viewing experience, suiting those who prioritize comprehension of the plot over specific performances and language nuances.
Whenever a non-English TV series or movie like Squid Game achieves international popularity, it inevitably sparks a range of discussions online. These discussions cover topics from "I liked films from this country before they were cool" to questioning why it has gained such widespread appeal. One recurring argument in these discussions is whether viewers should watch the content in its original language with subtitles or opt for a dubbed version in their native language.
The case of Squid Game is no exception. This hugely popular South Korean series revolves around a group of individuals burdened by debt who agree to take part in a high-stakes competition that could either result in their death or make them incredibly wealthy. As people began discussing and analyzing the show, the debate surrounding how it should be consumed resurfaced. This time, however, the discussions became more intense due to Squid Game not only becoming the most popular series on Netflix but also because renowned filmmaker Taika Waititi, who directed blockbuster movies like Thor: Ragnarok and the Oscar-winning Jojo Rabbit, tweeted about it in 2021 shortly after its premiere.
The assertion, without a doubt, is categorical, but there exist various subtle aspects to consider when deciding between dubbing and subbing for a specific TV series or film. In regards to a question like "should you watch Squid Game dubbed or subbed," the fundamental answer is: whichever option you find more comfortable. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make. However, we will now delve into the reasons why you may or may not choose one over the other.
Squid Game.
Multiple financially struggling individuals receive an unusual invitation to participate in games designed for children. Intrigued by the promise of an enticing reward, they enter a survival game where the stakes are dangerously high, with a grand prize of 45.6 billion-won up for grabs.
Release Date: September 17, 2021
Cast: Jung-Jae Lee, Park Hae-soo, Oh Yeong-su, Wi Ha-joon
Genres: Action, Adventure, K-Drama
Rating: TV-MA
Seasons: 2
Who Should Watch the Dubbed Version of 'Squid Game'?
Doubts often surround the practice of dubbing when it comes to audiovisual productions, particularly among those involved in their creation. When a writer pens their script and a director guides the project, they do so with the expectation that the intended message will be effectively conveyed to the audience. Dialogue or narration typically serves as the primary means of communication, incorporating aspects like humor, wordplay, expressions, and other techniques that aid in message delivery. Consequently, actors may dedicate considerable time, often weeks or even months, to sculpting the delivery of a single sentence. In some cases, a completely new style of speech is crafted, as exemplified by memorable performances such as Heath Ledger's portrayal in The Dark Knight, Meryl Streep's role in Julie & Julia, and Philip Seymour Hoffman's depiction in Capote. In these instances, it is not only the written dialogue that holds significance, but also factors such as tone, stress, and speech rhythm.
If you appreciate every aspect of an actor's performance and prioritize understanding the nuances of their delivery, the dubbed version may not be suitable for you. However, if you anticipate missing subtle intricacies due to the language barrier or if you value the overall story more than individual performances, watching the dubbed version should not significantly impact your experience and may be the preferable choice.
Additionally, if you are the type of viewer who often multitasks or frequently divides attention between the screen and other activities, such as checking your phone or monitoring your children's actions, and primarily rely on audio rather than visual cues, opting for the dubbed version would be advisable.
