Buzz
When Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan hit theaters in 2006, audiences were introduced to Borat Sagdiyev, a fictional journalist portrayed by Sacha Baron Cohen, who had previously appeared on the comedian’s Da Ali G Show.
Before long, the catchphrases ‘very nice’ and ‘wa wa wee wa’ became ubiquitous in our country, with people echoing them non-stop. The latter phrase, often used by Borat to express surprise or joy, led many to believe it was an invention. In reality, it has a deeper meaning.
Wa wa wee wa is actually Hebrew, a language Cohen speaks in the film, which contributed to Borat’s popularity in Israel. (Cohen, being Jewish himself, was familiar with the language.) The phrase originated from an Israeli comedy show and is akin to saying wow. It became quite popular in Israel, where people appreciated Cohen's use of it.
In the original Borat, Cohen also performs a well-known Hebrew folk song, “Koom Bachur Atzel,” which translates to “get up lazy boy,” among other Hebrew references. It’s still uncertain how much Hebrew will feature in the sequel, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, which debuts on Amazon Prime on Friday, October 23.
