Ojibwe Dubbed “Star Wars: A New Hope” To Hit the Big Screen

DULUTH, Minn. — Last Week, “Star Wars: A New Hope” premiered in Canada. While the movie was released nearly 50 years ago, this time it hit the screens with an Ojibwe translation.

The Ojibwe dubbed blockbuster brought in native speakers of the language to bring life to the characters.

Including a language coordinator for the Red Cliff Band Niigaanii-Animikii Inini Kalvin Hartwig, who voices Red Leader in the dubbed version.

The voice actor says he saw an advertisement for the film and jumped at the opportunity, eventually landing the role.

The movie serves as a part of the effort to revitalize the language.

“This is a moment in history, this is a milestone not just for Disney and Hollywood films. This is the first major Hollywood film to be dubbed in the Ojibwe language. And also a milestone for Ojibwemowin revitalization. So I hope that this film is inspiring to many,” said Hartwig.

The film  will be in select theatres, including Marcus Theatres in Duluth, and it will also be available on Disney+