Dubbed Audio Style Guide - Lip Sync Dubbing

We follow what we consider to be the world leader in cutting-edge film production techniques. Netflix. This is because Netflix techniques were designed from the ground up as a digital-technology without any of the legacy that traditional film technology and production houses grew up with. A completely fresh & fully digital approach with a full understanding of current technology provides what we consider the pinnacle of global dubbing processes.

Dubbed Audio Style Guide - Lip Sync Dubbing

Objective

This document contains a list of required practices when creating dubbed audio for Netflix content. Consult your Netflix representative for any specification not covered in this document.

1. Translation Requirements

1.1 Main Dialogue

All main dialogue in the source (original) language should be translated unless specifically noted.

1.2 Foreign Languages

Foreign dialogue should be translated in the forced subtitle stream only if it is meant to be understood. If it is unclear whether or not the foreign dialogue is meant to be understood, seek advice from Netflix or the production. Do not dub over foreign dialogue.

1.3 Character Names

Leave character names in original language unless translations are approved by Netflix. EXCEPTION: Famous historical/mythical characters and/or nicknames that might vary from language to language.

English: Santa Claus

German: Nikolaus

1.4 Songs

For song translation on dialogue track, seek written clearance from the content owner.

1.5 Censorship

Dialogue should not be censored or softened – tone & register should match original dialogue.

1.6 Consistency

Glossaries/consistency sheets must be created and used for translation across episodes and seasons. They should be provided to Netflix upon delivery of dub script for QC purposes.

1.7 Pre-recording script & translation

Must be approved by Netflix before recording begins.

2. Recording

2.1 Sync

• Sync dialogue to lip movement.

• DO NOT use U.N.-Style dubbing unless authorized by Netflix (documentaries)

2.2 In Territory

Recording must be done in the territory of the target language unless approved by Netflix.

2.3 Accents

Creative choice to be determined by production with consistency maintained by Netflix. If creative decisions are made prior to dub script QC, include relevant information in consistency sheet so that Netflix QC has visibility.

3. On-screen Text

3.1 Titles

Show and episode titles should never be translated – always leave in the original language unless otherwise requested by Netflix.

3.2 Forced Narratives

On-screen text should never be voiced over in the dubbed audio. A separate forced narrative text file should be created adhering to the Netflix Timed Text Style Guide. Exceptions can be made at Netflix’s discretion when it is plot-relevant for a character to read the on-screen text (e.g. a letter, text message, etc.).

4. Credits

The dubbing studio, cast and other key personnel, including translator/adapter, should be credited via delivery of a graphic Dubbing Card, according to the specifications contained int he Netflix Originals Full Technical Specification and Netflix Full Technical Specification documents. 

• Translator credits may be omitted only if the translator has submitted a formal waiver of rights to be credited.

5. Technical Aspects

For information on audio mix and delivery formats, please reference the Netflix Originals Full Technical Specification and Netflix Full Technical Specification documents. 

Change Log:

2016-11-16 

Dubbed Audio Style Guide - Lip Sync Dubbing

• Removed section 3.3 Dub Cards

• Added section 4 Credits

• Revised section 5 Technical Aspects: renumbered and updated links

2015-02-19 

• Revised section 1.2 Foreign Languages

• Revised section 1.6 Consistency

• Revised section 2.3 Accents

• Revised section: 3.2 Forced Narratives