How Amberscript Handles Ballandi’s Complex Subtitle Requirements In Just 48 Hours

Ballandi is an independent Italian production company known for creating TV shows, documentaries, and films. Based in Rome, they’ve been a major player in the entertainment industry, producing content mainly for both Italian and global streaming platforms and broadcasters, like Rai, Paramount and Discovery. Their work includes popular shows like Ballando con le Stelle, Drag Race Italia, Danza con Me, and Via Dei Matti n°0. 

Challenge: Meeting Complex Production Requirements

The first challenge Ballandi faced happened when they were working on the TV show “Drag Race Italia”, where they needed quick-turnaround English translated subtitles for Paramount and Discovery streaming platforms. Ballandi’s previous vendor couldn’t deliver on time with the project’s demanding schedule, which required delivery within just 24-48 hours. 

“We needed an effective, fast, and precise service with native translators available to translate the program for our American and British clients,” says Marco Bocancea, a Post-Production Coordinator at Ballandi.

Another Ballandi project, a movie “Coppia aperta, quasi spalancata” also had complex production requirements. This time the challenge wasn’t only to deliver fast. The project required managing three different subtitle versions simultaneously – for streaming platforms, Rai Cinema and Netflix, but also SDH captions for hard of hearing people. As Marco notes, “The triple version is complicated to manage, and the film was extremely challenging because it was all direct sound recording and sometimes very hard to hear.”

Another challenge Ballandi faced was the need to qualify for the Italian tax credit system, which required providing subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing, plus audio descriptions for the visually impaired. “We access this tax credit because we care about producing documentaries that promote Italy and its culture,” Marco explains. This is why Ballandi needed a subtitle vendor that is able to provide SDH captions.

Solution: New Vendor That Delivers High-Quality Subtitles Faster  

Before discovering Amberscript, Ballandi worked with other service providers that offered affordable pricing for tax credit-related productions. However, when “Drag Race Italia” demanded faster turnaround times, they began searching for alternatives. 

“We discovered Amberscript because we were looking for something faster”, says Marco.

Though Amberscript’s services came at a slightly higher cost, the quality and speed justified the extra spending. As Marco explains, “Your efficiency demonstrates a level of professionalism and expertise that truly stands out. While your rates may be higher than our previous vendor, the quality of work you deliver is incomparable. This exceptional service is why we’re committed to continuing our partnership with you.”

Results: Faster Production Time and Approval On the First Submission

For “Drag Race Italia,” Amberscript took a smart approach by choosing a translator who brought exactly what the project needed – a native English speaker from the UK who also spoke fluent Italian and understood the show’s specific language and terms. This meant less time spent on explanations and corrections, helping Ballandi meet their tight international deadlines while keeping the show’s unique style intact. Amberscript consistently met the 24-48 hour turnaround requirements.

The film “Coppia aperta, quasi spalancata” showcased Amberscript’s ability in handling complex projects. The team successfully delivered three different subtitle versions – for Rai Cinema, Netflix and SDH captions. The project achieved something unbelievable: immediate approval from RAI Cinema’s Televideo service.

“It’s the first time we’ve received immediate approval. Rai Cinema is known for their extremely strict quality control, typically requiring multiple revisions. Not only did they approve the subtitles without any corrections – which has never happened before – they actually thanked us for this level of quality.”

Marco Bocancea, Post Production Coordinator @ Ballandi

Conclusion: Competence and Speed

When asked to summarize his experience with Amberscript in one phrase, Marco chose “Competence and speed.” The partnership has proven valuable beyond just meeting deadlines, with Amberscript consistently demonstrating flexibility in the approach and fast communication. 

“Every time we ask for help with timing, you do it. You provide maximum professionalism with excellent translation and subtitling quality. Honestly, we couldn’t ask for more than this.”

Marco Bocancea, Post Production Coordinator @ Ballandi

Looking for a subtitling solution that keeps up with your production schedule? Get in touch with Amberscript to see how we can support your next project.