Lost in Translation: A Linguistic Exploration of Miscommunication and Intercultural Encounters in Film Dialogue

Abstract

Intercultural communication. The primary data were taken from dialogues in the film accessed via YouTube and analyzed using a qualitative approach through notetaking, selecting scenes involving communication conflicts, and interpreting linguistic elements related to the speakers' cultural backgrounds. A literature review was also conducted to support the contextual analysis. The findings reveal that the film effectively portrays various forms of communication conflict arising from cultural differences, such as contrasting communication styles between High Context and Low Context cultures, phonological differences between languages, and differing norms in service etiquette and the use of international languages. In addition to group-level conflicts, the film also highlights interpersonal communication issues, particularly those influenced by gender differences and ethnocentric perceptions. Therefore, Lost in Translation demonstrates that intercultural communication is not only shaped by language proficiency but also by understanding the values and worldviews embedded in different cultures. This film remains relevant as a reflection of the ongoing challenges in global communication.