Belle and Sebastian
Audiovisual Translation and Closed Captions for an Animated Series
Overview
Translation and closed captioning for the animated series Belle and Sebastian, delivered across development, production and post-production phases.
The project involved working on a wide range of content, from early-stage materials such as writing bibles, synopses and funding applications to final deliverables including closed captions for broadcast.
The challenge
This was a large-scale audiovisual project requiring both linguistic and technical expertise across multiple stages of production.
The scope of work included:
- translation of development materials (writing bible, episode synopses, pitches, funding applications)
- translation of related content, including concepts for a companion mobile application
- production of closed captions for broadcast
The project also involved complex delivery requirements:
- producing captions for 52 × 12-minute episodes
- adapting these into 26 × 24-minute versions for broadcast
- delivering equivalent versions for both English and French networks
- preparing separate formats for television and online distribution
In addition to volume and complexity, the project required strict adherence to broadcast deadlines, with deliverables aligned to scheduled releases.
My approach
I approached this project with a focus on consistency, organization and adaptability across all stages of production.
- Working across the production lifecycle
I ensured consistency in terminology, tone and style across all materials, from early development documents through to final broadcast deliverables. - Adapting content for different formats
Closed captions were created to meet timing, readability and accessibility requirements, while ensuring accuracy and coherence. - Managing complex deliverables
I developed a structured workflow to handle multiple versions, formats and languages efficiently, ensuring all requirements were met. - Maintaining consistency at scale
Across a high volume of content, I ensured continuity in terminology, character voice and overall style. - Meeting broadcast deadlines
All deliverables were completed in line with production schedules, requiring careful planning and time management.
The result
The project delivered a complete set of translated materials and closed captions across all required formats and versions, meeting both editorial and technical standards for broadcast.
It demonstrates the ability to manage complex audiovisual projects from development through to delivery, combining linguistic expertise with strong organizational and technical skills.
This work forms part of a broader portfolio of similar large-scale productions, including animated series such as Trulli Tales, requiring comparable levels of volume, coordination and technical adaptation.
Key takeaway
This project highlights the importance of a holistic approach to audiovisual translation, combining linguistic accuracy, technical expertise and workflow management across all stages of production.