Review of Exporting Raymond (2011) by Elizabeth H — 08 Oct 2011
An interesting, no-thrills film chronicling the translation/transition of the popular American sitcom, Everybody Loves Raymond (which I have NEVER watched ... EVER), to Russian television for Russian audiences.
Phil Rosenthal created the American-version and was asked to help adapt a few key episodes for Russian sensibilities and minds. I enjoyed watching Exporting Raymond and found it quite interesting but adding the Russian/international element made it more inviting to me.
What is most interesting with the film -- and what is on full display here -- is the clash of cultures: the role the male plays in a house; how a woman dresses to do housework; interaction with children etc.
It was most interesting realizing that vocabulary and words aren't the only obstacles to translation. As the film exposed audiences to some of the differences between Russian and American creativity, it also showed the universal-ness of corporate structure and control.
Our poor Phil has to adapt to everything. Exporting Raymond is a great idea for a film. As American sitcoms grow in popularity around the world, this type of story will be re-told and reccurring over-and-over again around the globe .
.. just in different languages. There is nothing remarkable or groundbreaking here; but if one is interested in a clash of cultures and sitcom situations this doc would probably appeal to them. It's not going to change your life; but it might make you appreciate compromise and creativity.
I would have liked to see more of the Russian Raymond's cast and less of Philip Rosenthal hogging the camera.
This review of Exporting Raymond (2011) was written by Elizabeth H on 08 Oct 2011.
Exporting Raymond has generally received positive reviews.
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