We Will Not Accept Fake Patois: Jamaican Linguist on Dialogue in Bob Marley Biopic
When Authenticity Became Paramount: Breaking the “Cool Runnings” Mold
16 February 2024
In the realm of films depicting Jamaican culture, there is one that stands out as both beloved and, in some circles, misunderstood. “Cool Runnings,” the 1993 comedy about the Olympic bobsled team, became a classic in many English-speaking parts of the world, but it also served as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of Hollywood accents and the homogenization of the Jamaican language. Prominent linguist Dr. Joseph Farquharson recognized the lingering ramifications of this experience and was determined to avoid a similar fate for the latest Jamaican biopic, “One Love,” based on the life of Bob Marley.
Patois: The Heart of Jamaican Culture
“One Love” engaged Dr. Farquharson as a consultant to the film’s dialogue coach, Brett Tyne, to ensure the language’s authenticity. The film aimed to capture the essence of the Jamaican dialect known as Patois, a unique blend of English, African, and several other influences. Knowing the delicate balance between preserving authenticity and catering to broader international audiences, Farquharson was resolute: this film would not become “another Cool Runnings.”
The limitations encountered during “Cool Runnings” were recently revealed by the film’s director, Jon Turteltaub, who faced pressure to modify the Jamaican accents to suit the understanding of American executives. Farquharson was determined to prevent history from repeating itself during the production of “One Love.” Although mindful of the film’s international appeal, he made sure the distinct Jamaican Patois remained true to its roots.
A Challenging Language: More than Meets the Ear
In a recent interview, Kingsley Ben-Adir, one of the stars of “One Love,” shared the complexities of Jamaican Patois. Described as “deceptive,” the language incorporates a significant amount of English, making it seem more familiar than it actually is. Ben-Adir likened the learning process to understanding a foreign language, emphasizing the layers of confusion and complication within Patois.
To help the actors navigate this linguistic challenge, Ben-Adir utilized the Cassidy-JLU writing system, specifically developed to transcribe Patois phonetically. The system facilitated a deeper understanding, making the language less obscure and empowering the actors to embrace its authenticity.
A Cultural Shift: The Resurgence of Patois
The importance of Patois signals a significant shift in Jamaican attitudes towards their mother tongue. While there were once calls for the language to be replaced entirely with standard English, recent years have seen a change in heart. Farquharson referenced a survey from 2005, revealing that 70% of Jamaicans supported the implementation of bilingual schools teaching both English and Patois— a notable departure from the language’s denigration in the 1950s.
Patois is not only undergoing a cultural resurgence within Jamaican society, but it has also become a political issue. The People’s National Party, the primary opposition in Jamaica, declared their commitment to grant formal recognition to Patois as the Jamaican language if they come to power. Acknowledging the linguistic challenges rooted in Jamaica’s colonial past, party president Mark Golding aptly characterized it as a “language problem” that needed rectifying to honor the Jamaican people’s linguistic heritage.
An Authentic Journey: Recapturing the Essence of Jamaica
The meticulous attention to detail invested in “One Love” sets it apart from the struggles faced by “Cool Runnings” and other films that fell into the “Patois fail” category. Dr. Farquharson believes the film achieves even greater authenticity than Perry Henzell’s 1972 Jamaican gangster classic, “The Harder They Come,” known for its commitment to local vernacular.
Expounding on the authenticity within “One Love,” Farquharson cherished the genuine Jamaican dialogue, particularly in the scenes featuring the band members. The dedication to authenticity shines through, showcasing the vibrant linguistic tapestry that comes to life in the film.
Jamaican Patois, when accurately rendered, becomes a significant part of the nation’s cultural identity. Farquharson eloquently expresses the sentiment when he declares, “We lose our flavor without it; we become like everyone else.” The distinctiveness of Patois becomes a vital feature that sets Jamaica apart from the crowd, and Farquharson fervently argues for its ongoing recognition and preservation.
Ultimately, “One Love” stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of accurately representing the cultural, linguistic, and historical nuances within Jamaican society.
