For an example of the sort of thing I’m considering, the first scenario is just to see if the idea of shifting adjacent subs is warranted at all anymore. But the second scenario is to come up with a logical set of rules, apply them consistently to the subtitles, and see what that yields. For example:
Shift adjacent subtitles if it’s:
- One subtitle with shifted subtitles within 1s on both sides, and <350ms gap after shifted subtitle on leading side
- One subtitle with a shifted subtitle on leading side with <350ms gap between them
- Two subtitles with <350ms gap between them, shifted subtitles within 1s on both sides, and <350ms gap after shifted subtitle on leading side
- One subtitle with shifted subtitles within 1s on both sides and <350ms gap before shifted subtitle on trailing side
Using these rules, I’m completely unable to justify three of the adjacent shifted subtitles in ROTJ, and the remaining two are covered by rule #1, which seems like the rule everyone would agree on if you agree to the basic concept of shifting adjacent subtitles.
In SW, they are all still justified by one of the rules, but “I don’t have it with me. Tell Jabba–” and “Over my dead body.” are covered by rule #4, which is a pretty iffy one IMO. “Yes, Greedo. As a matter of fact, I was just going to see your boss./Tell Jabba that I’ve got his money.” are covered by rule #3, and “Yes, I’ll bet you have.” is rule #2.