10 Times a Dubbed TV Show Did Better Than the Original

The world of television and film has always faced a crucial crossroad: dubbing or subtitles? The choice isn't simple, as it relies on various factors including...

The world of television and film has always faced a crucial crossroad: dubbing or subtitles? The choice isn't simple, as it relies on various factors including the viewer's preference, the storyline's complexity, and the accuracy of translation. While subtitles keep the original language and voice intact, dubbed versions render the script in the viewers' native language. In the debate between subtitles and dubbing, many viewers prefer the latter for a handful of reasons.

Why is Dubbed Better Than Subbed?

Watching the dubbed version of a TV series or a movie allows the viewers to focus on the on-screen action without getting distracted by reading subtitles. Dubbing makes it easier to understand the plot and enjoy the visual elements, especially in genres like sci-fi and action where intricate details and cinematic visuals are vital. Voice actors play a crucial role here. An outstanding dub voice can enrich the storyline and characters, lending an emotional depth that might be lost in subtitles.

Which Shows are Better Dubbed?

Let's explore ten instances where the dubbed TV show did better than the original:

1. Money Heist: Originally a Spanish series, Money Heist gained international acclaim after Netflix's English-language version. The English dubbing effectively localized the nuances and the intense emotional drama.

2. Cowboy Bebop: This classic anime series was highly praised for its English dub, which many fans believe enhances the mood and characterization compared to the original Japanese.

3. Death Note: The American English dub of this iconic anime series is celebrated for its accurate translation and excellent voice acting.

4. New York Undercover: The dubbed version in Italy gave this American series an unprecedented popularity, capturing the authentic essence of New York street life.

5. Borgen: A Danish political drama, this series attracted a global audience through BBC's dubbed version.

6. The Good Doctor: Originally a Korean drama, its dubbed version was a hit in foreign language markets, including Spain, with the adapted script resonating with the local audience.

7. Dark: This German sci-fi thriller garnered international attention thanks to the English dubbed version on Netflix, which impeccably translated the complex storyline.

8. Neon Genesis Evangelion: Despite controversy, the new Netflix English dub of this anime series found a new audience who lauded the updated script and voice acting.

9. The Rain: This Danish post-apocalyptic series gained popularity with English viewers through the English dub on Netflix.

10. Disney's Mulan: Despite being an American blockbuster, the Chinese dubbed version outperformed the original in China due to accurate localization and the excellent voiceover work by native actors.

How do you know if a show is dubbed?

Most streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video indicate if a show is available in dubbed versions. Viewers can also look for a language option in the settings to switch between the original and the dubbed version.

Which Anime Has Dub Better Than Sub?

One popular example of an anime where many fans argue the dubbed version surpasses the original is "Cowboy Bebop." The English dub of this anime series has been widely praised for its stellar voice acting, particularly Steven Blum's portrayal of the main character, Spike Spiegel. The nuances of the dialogue, the humor, and the essence of the characters have been translated exceptionally well in the dubbed version, making it an excellent watch for non-Japanese audiences.

What is the Difference Between Dub and Original?

The primary difference between a dubbed TV show and its original lies in the language used for dialogue. In the original show, characters speak the language in which the content was initially produced, be it Japanese, Korean, Spanish, or any other. This original version features the actual voices of the characters as performed by the original actors.

In a dubbed version, however, the original dialogue is replaced by a translated version in a different language. The new dialogue is voiced by different actors who are native speakers of that language. As a result, the viewer hears the characters speaking in their own language, rather than the original language.

What are the Pros of Dubbing?

There are several advantages to watching dubbed content:

1. Understanding the plot: For viewers who struggle with reading subtitles quickly or find them distracting, dubbed versions can make the plot easier to follow.
2. Better immersion: Without subtitles to read, viewers can focus fully on the visual elements of the show or film, from facial expressions to the cinematography and special effects.
3. Accessibility: Dubbing makes content accessible to those with vision problems or reading difficulties, as well as younger viewers who may not be able to read quickly or at all.

What are the Benefits of Dubs?

The benefits of dubbed versions are very similar to their pros, including:

1. Localization: Dubbing can adapt cultural references and idioms to make the content more relatable to the new audience.
2. Expanded audience: Dubbing allows the show or film to reach a broader audience, including those who might not watch foreign-language content.
3. Preserving original performance: While the voices change, the performances of the original actors, including their facial expressions and body language, are preserved in a dubbed version.

What is the Best Dubbed TV Show?

Selecting the "best" dubbed TV show can be quite subjective as it often depends on individual preferences. However, one show that often comes up in these discussions is "Money Heist" (La Casa De Papel). The Spanish series became a global phenomenon after Netflix released its English dub. The quality of the dubbing, the engaging plot, and the complex characters led to the show's massive international success, suggesting that its dubbed version was indeed quite well-done.

Top 8 Software or Apps for Enhanced Viewing Experience

1. Sublight: A powerful software for searching and downloading movie subtitles from various sources.
2. MX Player: A video player with advanced hardware acceleration and subtitle support.
3. VLC Media Player: An open-source media player that supports multiple subtitle formats and synchronization.
4. Plex: A streaming service that organizes your personal media collection and includes subtitle support.
5. Subtitle Edit: A tool for editing, creating, and converting movie subtitles.
6. Kodi: A home theater software with excellent subtitle downloading and synchronizing features.
7. BS.Player: A media player with an integrated subtitle editor.
8. Aegisub: A free, cross-platform open source tool for creating and modifying subtitles.

As the world continues to shrink, the practice of dubbing TV shows from foreign languages to English, and vice versa, is gaining prominence. Whether you're a fan of anime series, live-action dramas, or sci-fi thrillers, there's a good chance your favorite show has a dubbed version that might give the original a run for its money. So, the next time you sit down for a TV marathon, give the dubbed version a shot. You might be pleasantly surprised!