The Netflix Test: Can You Tell a Translator from an Interpreter?

Wait… Aren’t They the Same Thing?

If you've ever watched a courtroom drama or a spy thriller on Netflix, chances are you've seen someone frantically switching between languages. But were they translating or interpreting?

Spoiler alert: they’re not the same job - not even close.

In this blog, we’re breaking down the difference between translation and interpretation using iconic Netflix (and pop culture) moments. By the end, you’ll know who’s who—and maybe catch your favorite show making a classic linguist mistake.

Round 1 – Courtroom Chaos (You’ve Seen It)

Scene: A tense courtroom scene in Narcos or How to Get Away with Murder. A witness speaks Spanish, and someone in a suit rapidly repeats in English for the judge and jury.

✅ Interpreter

This is live, spoken language. The person is interpreting.

Interpreters work in real time—whether in courtrooms, hospitals, Zoom meetings, or press conferences. They process and convert spoken words, often with no script.

🎯 Netflix Test Rule: If they’re speaking out loud and on the spot, it’s an interpreter.

Round 2 – Subtitles & Dubs in Squid Game

Scene: Watching Squid Game with English subtitles… or hearing the dubbed English audio instead of Korean.

✅ Translator

That subtitle you’re reading? That voice actor's script? All written and prepared by translators.

Translators work with written content—scripts, documents, manuals, websites, and yes, your favourite binge-worthy subtitles. No rush, just precision and context.

🎯 Netflix Test Rule: If the work was written, edited, or pre-produced, it’s a translator.

Round 3 – That UN Scene Where Everyone’s Wearing Headphones

Scene: In political dramas like House of Cards, you’ll see characters wearing earpieces during international conferences.

✅ Interpreter

That’s simultaneous interpretation - done live, often with split-second decisions and nerves of steel.

These interpreters usually work from booths, whisper into headsets, and juggle diplomacy in multiple languages.

🎯 Netflix Test Rule: If people are hearing the translation while someone’s speaking, that’s interpretation in action.

Round 4 – The Mistake You Didn’t Catch in Hollywood

Scene: A character holds a written letter in another language… and starts reading it aloud in English, as if it’s an interpretation.

🚫 Oops. That’s technically a translation, not interpretation.

TV often blurs the lines, but now you know better.

Why It Matters in Real Life?

Understanding the difference isn’t just a trivia flex—it matters for hiring, accuracy, and cultural respect.

• Need help with a document, website, or email? Call a translator.

• Need someone to help you talk to a patient, client, or witness in real time? Call an interpreter.

Each requires different skills, training, and even certifications.

Final Round – Can You Pass the Netflix Test?

We’ll make it simple:

Got them all right? You’re now officially “Certified by Netflix.” 😉

Share the Fun

Tag your linguist friend and ask: “Can you pass the Netflix Test?”

Let’s see who knows the difference, and who still thinks subtitles come from Siri.

Want to work with real interpreters and translators who don’t get their training from Netflix?

Partner with Ad Astra, your go-to for qualified language access professionals.