The upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada has been given a more straightforward title in Vietnam: The Woman Who Loves Luxury Goods 2. The change highlights how foreign film titles are often adapted for local markets, sometimes improving on the original.
Critics argue that the original title might confuse audiences unfamiliar with the first film, potentially suggesting a horror or a documentary about capitalism. In contrast, the Vietnamese title clearly indicates the film features a woman who loves luxury goods and is a sequel.
Other countries have also creatively retitled films. The Czech Republic renamed Bad Santa as Santa Is a Pervert, while Germany turned Annie Hall into The Urban Neurotic and Airplane! into The Incredible Journey in a Crazy Airplane. China offered Deep Impact as Heaven and Earth Great Collision and Pretty Woman as I Will Marry a Prostitute to Save Money.
However, some translations go too far. Mexico’s subtitle for Thelma and Louise—An Unexpected Ending—spoils the plot. The myth that James Bond films were once called Mr Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is false; the phrase originated from an Italian journalist in 1962.
Ultimately, the practice of renaming films for different markets can lead to titles that are more descriptive or humorous, offering a fresh perspective on familiar stories.
