Cube Critics discuss 'Alien: Romulus' and an Ojibwe language 'Star Wars'

Cube Critics

Cube Critics Jacob Aloi and Melissa Olson discuss a movie about a corporation that has taken over the world and a movie from a galaxy, far far away — but in a language much closer to home.

‘Alien: Romlulus’

"Alien: Romulus" marks the latest entry in the "Aliens" franchise. As someone new to the franchise, I approached the film with fresh eyes — it’s like a classic slasher film but with a Xenomorph in place of the traditional masked antagonist. The setup involves young adults being pursued through close quarters, a formula that proves effective in delivering suspense and thrills.

For fans familiar with the "Aliens" universe, the film may feel somewhat redundant. While it executes the tried-and-true elements effectively — resulting in a satisfying if not groundbreaking experience — it reportedly does not introduce significant innovations.

Despite this, the film excels in its technical and artistic aspects. The score enhances the tense atmosphere, and the performances are commendably solid, supporting the film's high-stakes narrative. "Alien: Romulus" will likely appeal to horror and monster movie aficionados who enjoy edge-of-their-seat chase sequences in claustrophobic settings.

— Jacob Aloi

Alien; Romulus trailer

‘Star Wars: A New Hope’ in Ojibwe

"Star Wars: A New Hope" in the Ojibwe language recently premiered with much fanfare in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and is now showing in Minnesota and Wisconsin. This special dub offers a fresh take on the beloved sci-fi classic through a collaboration between Lucas Films, the University of Manitoba and the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council.

The project features voice actors from various communities across the U.S., including Ajuawak Kapashesit from the White Earth Nation, Anton Treuer from Leech Lake and Dustin Morrow from Lac Courte, who voices the iconic Obi-Wan Kenobi. This initiative not only brings a storied franchise closer to home for Ojibwe speakers but also serves as an invaluable educational resource, promoting the language's vitality and use among first speakers and learners alike.

Screenings are set for Friday at nine theaters across Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin, including Oakdale, Parkwood and Southbridge Crossing theaters.

— Melissa Olson

Star Wars: A New Hope (Ojibwe dub) trailer