When it comes to watching shows or movies in a language other than one’s own, there are two different opinions on whether or not they are interesting.

For the people who have said they would not watch shows and movies in another language, their frequently used complaints are that viewers cannot understand what the actors are saying and cannot multitask. Viewers also claim subtitles make it impossible to just “Enjoy the show.”

This comment is funny because when it comes to music, there have been trending songs that most people have heard, such as “Despacito,” “Gangnam Style” and “Macarena,” that people enjoyed without hesitation. Although these songs are in another language and people possibly have no knowledge of the meaning, that does not stop them from listening to and enjoying the music.

Regardless of the fact that both watching a show or movie and listening to music in a different language are forms of entertainment, people consider them to be different.

In the past, people have been bullied for watching anime, but now anime is popular and the majority of this generation and some older generations watch it. Korean movies and dramas are other things that people have been saying they are unsure about, but now people have been introduced to shows, such as “All of Us Are Dead” and “Squid Games,” but versions changed from their original language.

When you watch a show in its original language, you are more engaged as a viewer. When watching in dub, it flattens the emotion or loses nuance. While in its original language, you are actively paying attention, which deepens your connection to the story.

Of course, it will feel awkward at first, taking some time for you to get used to the subtitles. But the initial discomfort quickly fades, leaving you with richer, more meaningful viewing experiences.

So the next time you scroll past an international title, try not to skip it. Press play, keep the subtitles on if you need them and let yourself be transported. You may come for the entertainment, but you will stay for the culture, language and the joy of discovering that stories truly speak across borders.

And who knows, maybe you will find your next vacation spot.