Star Wars: A New Hope Receives New Flair

DULUTH, Minn.–Sometimes, all it takes to achieve an opportunity is to get out there and try. That was the case for this voice actor.

This longtime Star Wars fan was able participate in a brand-new version of this fan favorite film. And add his own special flair. Niigaanii-Animikii Inini Kalvin Hartwig is involved Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

“I’ve been a fan of Star Wars since I was a kid, I’m very involved with Ojibwe language vitalization. I’m also a film producer. It made me feel proud. It made me feel very proud. And very grateful for all the hard work so many people including at Disney, Lucas Films,” explained Hartwig.

Being able to lend his voice for this project is something that he has dreamed about for quite a while. The dubbing of Star Wars: A New Hope is making history.

“It wasn’t long, days later, after I sent my recordings, I got an email asking to audition live over zoom. With the director and one of her assistants.” said Hartwig

According to Hartwig, the decision to try and get involved was a no brainer for him.

“I first saw the posting on Facebook, one of my friend’s profiles. And the ad asked for folks to audition, to apply to audition for voice acting in Star Wars in Ojibwe. It was the first time I learned that Star Wars was going to be dubbed in the Ojibwe language, and I was stoked,” said Hartwig.

Eventually, Hartwig was cast as Red Leader, who appears later in the film.

“After a few days, I was to send in recordings of myself speaking these lines. In my best Ojibwemowin,” said Hartwig.  “I watched the clips that Disney offered of the film. Where you could hear the original English lines. As well as a clip with the dubbed Ojibwe lines from a first language fluent speaker.”

“So of course, one of my favorite lines, may the force be with you.” said Hartwig in Ojibwemowin with a smile.

This film will be previewed in select theaters, including Marcus Theaters in Canal Park.