Meaning: This quote by film critic Joel Siegel reflects his skepticism and criticism towards the decision of a filmmaker to spend two years translating a movie from Spanish into English. Siegel expresses a lack of understanding as to why a filmmaker, whom he refers to as "one of our most original filmmakers," would invest such a significant amount of time and effort into translating another person's work, especially when the original film in Spanish was not well-received.

The quote suggests a certain level of disbelief and disappointment on the part of Siegel, as he questions the filmmaker's choice to dedicate their time and talent to translating a film that he deems to be of questionable quality. Siegel's use of words like "no idea" and "such a good film in Spanish, either" conveys his strong disapproval of the filmmaker's decision and his overall negative assessment of the original Spanish film.

This quote highlights the differing perspectives and priorities within the film industry. While some may prioritize originality and creating new, innovative works, others may see value in the adaptation and translation of existing films to reach a wider audience. The quote also raises questions about the motivations behind such a decision, as well as the perceived quality and impact of the original and translated films.

In analyzing this quote, it's important to consider the context in which it was made. Film critics often evaluate movies based on their artistic merit, storytelling, technical aspects, and overall impact on the audience. Siegel's critique reflects his own standards and expectations for filmmakers, as well as his views on the importance of originality and creative expression in the industry.

It's also worth noting that translation and adaptation are common practices in the film industry, with many successful films being remade or translated into different languages to reach diverse audiences. While some may view this as a valuable way to share stories and connect with viewers globally, others, like Siegel, may question the creative merit and significance of such endeavors.

The quote by Joel Siegel encourages reflection on the role of filmmakers in creating and translating films, as well as the criteria by which their work is judged. It prompts discussion about the balance between originality and adaptation, the impact of translation on storytelling and artistic expression, and the influence of critics' perspectives on the reception of films.

In conclusion, Joel Siegel's critical quote raises thought-provoking questions about the motivations and creative choices of filmmakers, the value of translation and adaptation in the film industry, and the varying opinions and standards within the world of film criticism. It serves as a reminder of the diverse viewpoints and debates that shape the landscape of filmmaking and storytelling.