Watch: How Klingon, Elvish, and Other Fake Movie Languages Were Created

There’s more to creating a fake language (which in these cases, have become real) than just making up a bunch of words, as this enlightening video from John McWhorter points out. There has to be a grammar rule system, and in the cases of the best ConLangs, the messiness of linguistic evolution. 

McWhorter goes in depth to explain why these fictitious languages captivate audiences and add to the experience of the books, shows, and films they’re featured in. If you’re at all interested in language, or just a fan of these universes, this video will shed some interesting light on how the creators added this fascinating extra layer to their worlds. Check it out below and let us know which made up language is your favorite.