'Star Wars: A New Hope' Is Being Translated Into The Indigenous Ojibwe Language

Star Wars

Jan 10

Since 1977 Star Wars has been translated into over 50 languages including French, Italian, and Norwegian. In 2013 it was the first major motion picture to be translated into a Native American Language with a Navajo dub. Disney is taking it a step further by putting an Ojibwe version into production. The Ojibwe are one of the largest tribal populations in the US, and second largest in Canada, but there is very little content made with these speakers in mind. It is hoped that the new translation will encourage more people to learn and retain the language, preserving it for future generations.

The new version of Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope will benefit seven federally recognized Ojibwe tribes, including Bois Forte (Nett Lake), Fond du Lac, Grand Portage, Leech Lake, Mille Lacs, White Earth, and Red Lake, as well as countless others that speak the language in Manitoba, Ontario and the US state of Minnesota.

Additionally, there’s a huge opportunity for indigenous actors looking to break into the film industry. Disney is looking for voice actors fluent in Ojibwe, and open auditions will be held in Winnipeg, as well as translations and sound recordings. Anyone interested can sign up at starwarsojibwe.com.

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