Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Evaluation and Strategy Research on Multimodal Subtitle Translation of the Film "Chang'an 30000 Miles" from the Perspective of Cross Cultural Communication

Liuchang ZhaoBeijing Information Science and Technology University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This paper examines how multimodal subtitle translation works in Chang'an 30000 Miles, with particular attention to poems, cultural symbols, and audience reception. Rather than treating subtitles as isolated lines of text, the discussion reads them together with images, music, color, and narrative rhythm. The analysis draws on interviews with five student viewers from different academic backgrounds. Their comments show a clear tension: they expect subtitles to preserve the cultural flavor of Tang poetry and historical references, but they also want the translation to be brief, fluent, and easy to follow while watching the film. On this basis, the paper argues that a single strategy is not enough. Literal translation is useful when poetic imagery or historical terms need to remain visible, while free translation, annotation, or cultural compensation may be more effective when the audience lacks background knowledge. The study therefore recommends a flexible combination of literal and free translation, guided by scene context and audience familiarity. Its limitation lies in the small interview sample, but the findings still offer practical clues for translating Chinese animated films in cross-cultural settings.

Keywords: Chang'an 30000 Miles; multimodal subtitle translation; cross-cultural communication; audience reception; translation strategy
Published: February 21, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.20904
Volume: CHR Vol.61
pp. 71-78
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