Family Films Celebrating the Art of Translation

Description: This film tells the story of Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan, who uses a form of translation to communicate with Helen, who is deaf and blind.

Fact: The film was based on a play by William Gibson, and both Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke won Academy Awards for their performances.

Description: This film spans centuries and continents, with the violin's journey often requiring translation to understand its history and significance.

Fact: The film was shot in five languages, and the violin used was a Stradivarius, one of the most valuable instruments in the world.

Description: While not strictly about translators, this film captures the essence of cultural and linguistic misunderstandings, highlighting the importance of translation in human connections.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in Tokyo, and Sofia Coppola wrote the script in just two weeks. It was also Bill Murray's first Golden Globe win.

Description: While not directly about translators, the film's protagonist embarks on a global adventure, highlighting the importance of understanding and communicating across cultures.

Fact: Ben Stiller, who directed and starred in the film, traveled to Iceland, Greenland, and Afghanistan for authenticity. The film's negative was lost in transit, causing a delay in its release.

Description: A man from Eastern Europe gets stuck in JFK Airport due to a coup in his homeland. His interactions with airport staff, including a translator, showcase the nuances of language and cultural adaptation.

Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. The airport set was built from scratch and took 12 weeks to construct.

Description: This film follows a UN interpreter who overhears a plot to assassinate an African head of state. It's a thrilling exploration of the translator's role in international diplomacy and the personal risks involved.

Fact: Nicole Kidman learned to speak fluent Shona for her role as the interpreter. The film was shot in the actual United Nations building, a rare occurrence for movie productions.

Description: This film tells interconnected stories in different countries, where language barriers and translation play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama.

Fact: The film was shot in four countries on three continents, and the cast had to learn multiple languages for authenticity. It won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: Set during WWII, this film features a young girl who finds solace in books, with translation playing a key role in her understanding of the world around her.

Fact: The film was shot in Germany, and the young actress Sophie Nélisse had to learn German for her role. The book was originally written in English by Australian author Markus Zusak.

Description: A story within a story, this film explores themes of authorship, translation, and the moral implications of using someone else's words, touching on the translator's role in literary creation.

Fact: The film's narrative structure was inspired by the Russian nesting dolls, reflecting the layers of storytelling. Bradley Cooper learned to play the piano for his role.

Description: A documentary about two linguists traveling the world to document dying languages, showcasing the importance of translation in preserving cultural heritage.

Fact: The film was shot in remote locations like Siberia and Bolivia, capturing languages with fewer than 100 speakers.