Proposed guidelines for inclusive interlingual and intralingual subtitles in a Maltese context

Abstract

The following guidelines are to be considered work in progress. Further experimental studies are necessary to test and develop them further. Meanwhile, they are being used for didactic and educational purposes, applied research, and for local media localisation projects. The parameters and specifications provided are intended for interlingual and intralingual subtitling both in English and Maltese (source languages: English, Maltese, or foreign languages). They are meant to guide audiovisual translators in a Maltese linguistic and cultural setting. They draw on widespread standards and conventions and their variations in use across TV networks, streaming platforms, and localisation companies globally, and have been adapted to suit Maltese-specific needs. Inclusive subtitles are intended for a broad spectrum of viewers that may or may have hearing loss, and that may or may not understand Maltese. The specifications and strategies proposed aim to create an inclusive enjoyable experience that can be shared by all alike. The aim is to seek a balance that ensures that no viewer is deprived of essential information (e.g., relevant sounds, or culture-specific terms and references) while trying to avoid overabundant or redundant information.