Section glossary:

messed up: hecho un desastre, hecho un lío

a straight-up: special explanation through the link

paragons of virtue: (modelos de virtud)

a bankrupt army: un ejército en bancarrota

a ragtag group: grupo variopinto, desaliñado.

Key Settings:

Vought International (a.k.a. Hell’s Corporate Headquarters):

Vought is the soulless, multi-billion dollar conglomerate that controls every aspect of the superhero industry, from merchandising to movie deals to, oh yeah, life-saving (or life-ending) decisions. They’re like Disney on steroids if Mickey Mouse could laser your head off. Vought packages these morally bankrupt supes as America’s saviors, while quietly sweeping their most heinous deeds under the rug with a fat check and a PR spin that would make a politician blush.

Section glossary:

Settings: (here) escenarios, ambientaciones

souless: sin alma

laser your head off (VERBING): special explanation through the link

Vought packages these (...) supes: also VERBING. Learn about it through the link.

heinous deeds: hechos atroces

deeds (here): action, feat, exploit (something that is done)

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The Seven’s Tower (aka The Seven’s Ivory Tower):

This is where the elite supes, known as The Seven, hang out, plot their next publicity stunt, and occasionally take a break from committing unspeakable atrocities. The Tower is a monument to everything wrong with putting too much power in the hands of people who shouldn’t even be trusted with a pair of scissors. Here, the lines between hero and villain blur until they disappear completely.

Butcher’s Safe House (aka the Angriest Living Room in America):

A dingy, secretive hideout where Billy Butcher and his crew plan their next move against the supes. It’s not much, but it’s home—or at least a place where you’re less likely to be blown to bits by Homelander. Here, plans are hatched, grudges are nursed, and the occasional cup of tea is spiked with more than just a splash of whiskey.

Section glossary:

to hang out: to spend time relaxing and/or socializing

to plot: to make a plan (usually in secret)

people who shouldn't (...) be trusted with a pair of scissors: Personas a las que no se les debería confiar un par de tijeras

to be trusted: ser de confianza, que se le confíe

dingy: sucio, sórdido

hideout: escondite

crew: equipo

to be blown to bits: ser volado en pedazos

to hatch: tramar

grudge: rencor

to nurse: alimentar

to be spiked with: estar mezclado con

a splash of whiskey: un chorrito de whisky

Section glossary:

Cockney accent: special explanation through the link

scowl: ceño fruncido

a prick: (here) un capullo (VULGAR vocabulary through the link)

a ragtag group: grupo variopinto, desaliñado.

Key Characters:

- Billy Butcher:

- Imagine if Clint Eastwood had a Cockney accent, a permanent scowl, and a vendetta against every superpowered prick in the world. He’s on a personal mission to take down Homelander, the most powerful supe of them all, who he blames for destroying his life. His moral compass? Well, it points south, but as long as he’s wrecking a supe, he’s happy.

- Homelander:

-Homelander is what you’d get if Superman had a God complex, zero empathy, and a penchant for casual genocide. He’s the ultimate superhero—if by "superhero," you mean someone who can laser your face off while flashing a perfect smile and telling you it’s for the greater good. Homelander is the poster child for what happens when absolute power corrupts absolutely—and he knows it, loves it, and makes sure everyone else knows it too.

The Vocabulary

Diabolical!!!

a straight-up

"A straight-up" is used as a modifier or adverb to emphasize that something is pure, direct, or unequivocal. It implies that there are no nuances or subtleties—what you see is what you get. It can be used to describe a situation, a person, or a statement that is straightforward or brutally honest.

For example:

- "That was a straight-up lie." (This was a complete, direct lie without any truth.)

In Spanish: "Eso fue una total mentira." (o mejor: mentira descarada)

- "He's a straight-up genius." (He's undeniably a genius, without question.)

In Spanish: "Es un auténtico genio."

- "This is a straight-up classic." (This is undeniably a classic, no doubt about it.)

In Spanish: "Esto es un clásico absoluto."

VERBING

(grammar)

ex: laser somebody's head off

"To laser someone's head off" is an informal and figurative expression where the noun "laser" is creatively used as a verb. Grammatically, this phrase is an example of verbing, which is the process of converting a noun into a verb. The phrase implies using a laser beam to cut off someone's head, often used in a hyperbolic or imaginative context.

In English, you could have said "to cut someone's head off using a laser," but by using "laser" as a verb, you create a more dynamic and vivid image.

Translation to Spanish:

"Laser" doesn't have a direct equivalent as a verb in Spanish, so you'd need to rephrase it. A possible translation could be:

"Cortar la cabeza de alguien con un láser."

Or, if you want to keep the creative spirit:

"Desintegrar la cabeza de alguien con un láser."

What's VERBING?

Verbing is like taking a hammer and smashing a noun until it turns into a verb, just because you can. It’s like saying, "I'm adulting today," when you’re just paying bills and not crying about it. You take a perfectly good noun, slap it on the operating table, and bring it back as a verb—alive, kicking, and possibly a little angry.

Verbing is when you take a perfectly respectable noun, like “adult” or “Google,” and decide it needs more action in its life—so you turn it into a verb. Suddenly, you’re not just an adult, you’re "adulting." You’re not just using Google, you’re "Googling." It’s like giving your words a caffeine shot and telling them to get up and do something.

This isn’t a new thing, either. Shakespeare was verbing before it was cool. When he made “elbow” into a verb in King Lear (“elbowing you aside”), he was basically the OG verbifier. Even back in the 14th century, people were turning nouns into verbs because, well, why not?

Some modern-day examples:

- Text: Once just the stuff in books, now something you can do to someone. “I’ll text you later.”

- Friend: Used to be someone you had, now it’s something you do on Facebook. “I just friended you.”

- Adult: Formerly a status, now a painful activity. “I can’t go out tonight, I’m adulting.”

So, verbing isn’t just a trend; it’s a linguistic tradition that’s been around for centuries. It’s a way of keeping English flexible, fun, and just a little bit rebellious.

VERBING 2

(grammar)

ex: Vought packages (...) supes

Vought packages these morally bankrupt supes as America’s saviors

Translation to Spanish:

Vought presenta a estos superhéroes moralmente corruptos como los salvadores de América.

In this sentence, "package" is used as a verb meaning "to present, market, or promote something in a particular way." Vought is strategically presenting or promoting these morally corrupt superheroes as if they are heroes or saviors of America, despite their true nature.

"Package", in this context, is an example of "verbing." Originally, "package" is a noun, referring to a container or a bundle of items wrapped together. However, it has been turned into a verb- and a noun transformed into a verb is a key characteristic of "verbing" in English.

COCKNEY ACCENT

The Cockney accent is a traditional dialect associated with working-class Londoners, particularly those from the East End of London. It’s known for its distinctive pronunciation, vocabulary, and rhyming slang.

Key Characteristics:

- Dropping the 'H': Words beginning with 'H' often lose the 'H' sound (e.g., "house" becomes "’ouse").

- Glottal Stops: The 'T' sound in words is often replaced with a glottal stop, a brief pause (e.g., "bottle" becomes "bo’le").

- Th-Fronting: The 'th' sound is often pronounced as 'f' or 'v' (e.g., "think" becomes "fink" and "this" becomes "vis").

- Rhyming Slang: This is a playful use of words where a phrase that rhymes with the intended word is substituted (e.g., "apples and pears" meaning "stairs").

Origins:

Cockney accent is originally from London, specifically from the East End. Traditionally, to be a "true" Cockney, one had to be born within earshot of the Bow Bells, the bells of St. Mary-le-Bow church in Cheapside, London. The accent has strong associations with the working-class culture of this area and has become a defining feature of London’s linguistic landscape.

Over time, the influence of Cockney has spread, and elements of it can be heard in various forms across London and other parts of the UK. However, as London becomes more cosmopolitan, the traditional Cockney accent is less common than it once was, blending with other accents to create new forms of speech.

Billy Butcher is a Londoner (graphic novels and series). So, he is expected to have at least a "modern approach" to the Cockney accent. Butcher’s parents are also British.

Karl Urban, however, is from New Zealand, and most British fans criticize his Butcher's accent.

Famous People Who Use Cockney English:

Footballers:

1. David Beckham: The former England captain and football legend is known for his East London roots and has a Cockney-influenced accent, although his speech has become somewhat less pronounced over time.

2. Harry Redknapp: The former footballer and manager, who hails from the East End of London, has a classic Cockney accent and is well-known for his straightforward, no-nonsense speech.

3. Jamie Redknapp: Former footballer and sports pundit, and son of Harry Redknapp, Jamie also has a Cockney accent, though slightly milder.

Actors:

1. Michael Caine: Perhaps the most iconic Cockney-speaking actor, Michael Caine’s accent is one of the most recognized in the world. He’s famous for his roles in films like The Italian Job and Get Carter.

2. Danny Dyer: Known for his tough-guy roles in British films and his long-running role as Mick Carter on EastEnders, Dyer has a strong Cockney accent and often plays characters who speak in that dialect.

3. Ray Winstone: An actor often cast in gritty roles, Winstone’s Cockney accent is unmistakable, featuring prominently in films like Sexy Beast and The Sweeney.

Popular Films and TV Series Portraying Cockney English:

Films:

1. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998): Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film is packed with characters who speak in thick Cockney accents. The film’s dialogue is quintessentially London, full of slang and rapid-fire exchanges.

2. Snatch (2000): Another Guy Ritchie film, Snatch features many characters with Cockney accents, including those played by Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones.

3. The Italian Job (1969): Starring Michael Caine, this classic British film is famous for Caine’s Cockney catchphrase, “You’re only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!”

4. My Fair Lady (1964): Although a musical and a bit more of a stylized portrayal, it famously deals with the transformation of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, into a "lady" with an upper-class accent.

MODERN STUFF (NETFLIX)

As of 2024, "Top Boy" is the most notable series on Netflix where characters use Cockney English. This British crime drama series is set in East London and features characters with Cockney accents, reflecting the area's working-class and multicultural background.

Other Noteworthy Mentions:

While "Top Boy" is a prime example, there are other series available on Netflix (or on other platforms) that may feature Cockney English or Cockney-influenced accents, though they might not be as prominently featured:

1. "The Sweeney" (2012):

- Description: A film rather than a series, The Sweeney is a modern adaptation of the classic British TV series of the same name. It features characters with Cockney accents and is set in London. It may be available on Netflix in some regions or as part of its film library.

2. "London Spy" (2015):

- Description: This British miniseries combines elements of spy drama with a contemporary setting. It features characters from various parts of London, including those with Cockney accents.

3. "The End of the F*ing World" (2017–2019):

- Description: While not entirely set in London, this dark comedy-drama features characters with Cockney accents and has received acclaim for its unique storytelling and character development.

In modern films and TV series, the portrayal of Cockney English continues to be a significant element in capturing the essence of London’s diverse linguistic landscape. Here’s a look at contemporary actors and productions that showcase Cockney English:

Contemporary Actors Portraying Cockney English:

1. Danny Dyer:

- Notable Roles:

- EastEnders as Mick Carter: Danny Dyer plays a central character in this long-running British soap opera, and his Cockney accent is integral to his portrayal of a pub landlord in the East End of London.

- The Business (2005): Dyer stars in this crime film set in the 1980s, showcasing his Cockney accent and tough-guy persona.

2. Ray Winstone:

- Notable Roles:

- The Sweeney (2012): Winstone plays a detective in this film based on the classic TV series, delivering his lines with a strong Cockney accent.

- Sexy Beast (2000): Winstone’s role as a retired gangster features his distinctive Cockney accent and intense performance.

3. Jason Statham:

- Notable Roles:

- Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) and Snatch (2000): Statham, in his breakout roles, uses a Cockney accent to portray gritty, street-smart characters in Guy Ritchie’s films.

- The Transporter series: Although his accent is less pronounced here, Statham’s Cockney roots are still part of his persona.

Modern Films and TV Series Featuring Cockney English:

1. Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014):

- Description: This action-comedy film directed by Matthew Vaughn features Taron Egerton as Eggsy, a young man from a rough London neighborhood. While not all characters use Cockney English, the film includes elements of London street culture and accents.

- Actors: Taron Egerton and others bring a contemporary touch to the Cockney dialect, even though the accent is somewhat stylized.

2. The Gentlemen (2019):

- Description: Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film includes a variety of London accents, including Cockney. The movie features a mix of characters with strong Cockney influences.

- Actors: Charlie Hunnam and others use Cockney English to bring authenticity to their roles in this crime caper.

3. EastEnders:

- Description: This British soap opera continues to be a significant platform for Cockney English. Characters regularly use the accent, reflecting the show’s setting in the East End of London.

- Actors: Danny Dyer, alongside other cast members, maintains the Cockney dialect in their performances.

4. Harlots (2017–2019):

- Description: This historical drama set in 18th-century London features a range of accents, including Cockney, to portray the diverse characters of London’s lower classes.

- Actors: The show employs Cockney English to add authenticity to the portrayal of historical London life.

5. Misfits (2009–2013):

- Description: This British sci-fi drama features a group of young offenders with superpowers, many of whom speak with Cockney or Estuary English accents.

- Actors: The cast, including actors like Joe Gilgun, uses Cockney English to reflect the show's urban setting.

These modern films and TV series continue to highlight the Cockney accent and its cultural significance, reflecting its evolution and enduring presence in contemporary British media.

Spanish Translation

"**The Boys**" es lo que obtienes cuando los superhéroes dejan de ser amables y empiezan a volverse reales: realmente corruptos, realmente violentos y realmente trastornados. Imagina si Superman tuviera un hábito de la cocaína, Wonder Woman fuera una narcisista y Batman fuera simplemente un psicópata. En este universo, los superhéroes, o "supes", no son los modelos de virtud a los que estás acostumbrado (al menos en la televisión), son más como celebridades con superpoderes y todo el comportamiento tóxico que eso conlleva. ¿Y quién se enfrenta a este ejército moralmente corrupto de cruzados con capa? Un grupo heterogéneo de inadaptados con más problemas que un programa de televisión diurno, empeñados en derribar a estos seres casi divinos.

Escenarios clave:

Vought International (también conocido como la Sede Corporativa del Infierno):

Vought es el conglomerado multimillonario y sin alma que controla cada aspecto de la industria de los superhéroes, desde el merchandising hasta los acuerdos cinematográficos y, ah, sí, decisiones que pueden salvar vidas (o acabarlas). Son como Disney con esteroides si Mickey Mouse pudiera cortarte la cabeza con un rayo láser. Vought presenta a estos supes moralmente corruptos como los salvadores de América, mientras barre discretamente sus actos más atroces bajo la alfombra con un cheque gordo y un giro de relaciones públicas que haría sonrojar a un político.

La Torre de los Siete (también conocida como la Torre de Marfil de los Siete):

Aquí es donde los superhéroes de élite, conocidos como Los Siete, pasan el rato, planean su próximo truco publicitario y, ocasionalmente, se toman un descanso de cometer atrocidades indescriptibles. La Torre es un monumento a todo lo malo que implica poner demasiado poder en manos de personas en las que ni siquiera se debería confiar un par de tijeras. Aquí, las líneas entre héroe y villano se difuminan hasta que desaparecen por completo.

La Casa Segura del Carnicero (también conocida como la Sala de Estar más Furiosa de Estados Unidos):

Un escondite sórdido y secreto donde Billy Butcher y su equipo planean su próximo movimiento contra los superhéroes. No es gran cosa, pero es un hogar, o al menos un lugar donde es menos probable que Homelander te haga volar en pedazos. Aquí, se traman planes, se alimentan rencores y, ocasionalmente, se adereza una taza de té con algo más que un chorrito de whisky.

Personajes clave:

- Billy Carnicero:

- Imagina si Clint Eastwood tuviera acento cockney, un ceño fruncido permanente y una venganza contra todos los idiotas con superpoderes del mundo. Tiene la misión personal de acabar con Homelander, el superhéroe más poderoso de todos, a quien culpa de destruir su vida. ¿Su brújula moral? Bueno, apunta hacia el sur, pero mientras esté destrozando a un superhéroe, es feliz.

- Homelander:

- Homelander es lo que obtendrías si Superman tuviera un complejo de Dios, cero empatía y una inclinación por el genocidio casual. Es el superhéroe definitivo, si por "superhéroe" te refieres a alguien que puede volarte la cara con un láser mientras muestra una sonrisa perfecta y te dice que es por el bien mayor. Homelander es el ejemplo perfecto de lo que sucede cuando el poder absoluto corrompe absolutamente, y él lo sabe, lo ama y se asegura de que todos los demás también lo sepan.