Rastamouse 一只引起爭議的老鼠
Rastamouse 一只引起爭議的老鼠
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In the UK a tiny animal has kicked off a big debate.
'Rastamouse' is a much talked-about new animated BBC children's show. The star of the programme is a cute Rastafarian mouse who, together with his reggae band, solves crimes.
The show has caused a stir with viewers of all ages. Its humour has won it many devoted adult followers and it has been praised for its educational value.
Rastamouse likes skateboarding and loves music.
But it is the way Rastamouse and his band – Da Easy Crew – speak that has put the cat among the pigeons. The characters talk in a Caribbean English patois. For example, Rastamouse's motto is "makin' a bad ting (thing) good". The characters greet each other by saying "Wagwan!" (What's going on?).
For many, it's part of the show's appeal. But some parents have complained that it is encouraging the use of slang amongst their children. Other viewers feel that the mice are stereotyped or condescending versions of Rastafarians. Around 190 complaints have been submitted to the BBC.
The show's creators – one of whom is himself a Rastafarian – insist that no offence was intended and the BBC has defended the show for its "compelling stories, great music and positive messages".
The backlash hasn't halted Rastamouse's progress. He has already released a single – Ice Popp – and an album is also planned.
Glossary 詞匯表 (收聽發音, 請單擊英語單詞)
- to kick off a big debate引發了一場大辯論
- much talked-about 議論紛紛的
- Rastafarian信奉拉斯特法里教的
- to cause a stir引起爭議
- devoted followers忠實的追隨者
- to put the cat among the pigeons惹事生非
- patois方言/土語
- stereotyped老套的
- compelling有說服力的
- backlash 反彈
