BEtourfan wrote:Think I understand what's meant by cutting the "profanity," but wonder if Eric Fellner's comment about tweaking other language to "make scenes easier to comprehend" and "even easier to sell" might actually touch on some of the more complex or mature themes in the show.
This is the conundrum this show presents. Is it based on a subject or theme designed for adults, although centered on children (such as 'Lord of the Flies'); or is it a show for all ages to enjoy? The problem is that it focuses on themes that are complex, yet the show can be - and is - enjoyed at face value by kids. So if American audiences require toning it down
a bit for the kids, then the 'adult' themes will still be evident for those who see beyond the pure entertainment factor.
Secondly, working class UK is more prone to using harsh language in daily workabout life; society is less offended and its use in the play is a reflection of life there. Billy would certainly say "How the fook would I know?". However, it jars American sensibilities in a way that can detract from the story, while adding little to it - in America, where it is out of context in 'polite' society -e.g. families and schools. Another reason to j
udiciously edit it - if it brings in more punters.
One or two terms can and should remain: 'poof' being a case in point. It is not part of day to day parlance in America; therefore it does not jar in a way that the US school yard misuse of its equivalent, 'gay', would in its place ("those shoes are soo gay") The latter term is a real issue in schools and is best avoided. 'Poof' gets the message across and should stay. And, of course, we cannot lose the 'William Elliot Is Queer' joke, either.
So, it is a case of applying judicial alteration to make it work for the paying audience, without whom BETM would not exist. I trust the producers on this issue.