In November 2021, twenty-six historical treasures from the Kingdom of Dahomey were prepared to return to the Republic of Benin from Paris. This documentary, from Mati Diop (Atlantics), explores the complex issues surrounding appropriation, self-determination, and restitution as it follows the artifacts’ journey and examines how they will be received in a country that has changed significantly during their absence. Through multiple perspectives, the film raises questions about the repatriation of cultural heritage and its impact on identity and history. Winner of the Golden Bear at the 2024 Berlinale, this is a thought-provoking and essential conversation piece.
Does Dahomey have end credit scenes?
No!
Dahomey does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.
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Dahomey delivers a compelling exploration of cultural restitution through a concise documentary format. Reviews highlight its poetic structure and confrontational moments, where student dialogues bring sharp insight into colonial legacies. Its formal playfulness and unhurried pacing balance introspection with academic rigor. While the film’s brevity limits narrative depth, it maintains engagement through rich anthropological commentary. Overall, Dahomey emerges as an intellectually stimulating and visually assured documentary that leaves a lasting impression.
The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Dahomey
Art & Craft
In terms of Art & Craft, Dahomey exhibits refined visual composition and deliberate editing choices. Its cool, static framing and understated color palette create a measured atmosphere that underscores the film’s thematic concerns. The editing maintains a poised rhythm, allowing each shot to convey layered meaning. Ultimately, the film’s formal playfulness and visual cohesion reinforce its contemplative tone.
Character & Emotion
When it comes to Character & Emotion, the documentary fosters intimate engagement with participants’ voices. It foregrounds student discussions to reveal emotional stakes and conflicts around cultural restitution. The film’s focus on personal reflection and anthropological dialogue deepens emotional resonance. In conclusion, Dahomey’s nuanced portrayal of individuals cultivates empathy and underscores the human dimension of its subject matter.
Story & Flow
For Story & Flow, Dahomey combines brisk pacing with thoughtful structure to navigate complex themes. Its concise 68-minute runtime allows for focused exploration, though the conference-like presentation sometimes limits narrative momentum. Nonetheless, the film’s poetic sequencing and clear thematic arcs maintain engagement and originality. Overall, the storytelling approach balances introspective moments with confrontational discussions to deliver a coherent and purposeful narrative.
Sensory Experience
In terms of Sensory Experience, Dahomey emphasizes visual and auditory restraint to heighten its contemplative mood. The film’s sound design is subtle, allowing ambient voices and space to resonate without musical embellishment. Visually, the static compositions and precise framing reinforce the thematic weight and aid cohesion. These restrained sensory choices collectively immerse viewers in the film’s reflective and measured atmosphere.
Rewatch Factor
When considering Rewatch Factor, Dahomey’s intellectual depth and formal elegance offer merit for subsequent viewings. Its dense anthropological dialogue and poetic structure reveal new insights upon repeat engagement. However, the documentary’s static presentation and conference-style format may limit casual rewatch appeal. Overall, the film’s layered thematic content sustains interest, though its academic tone may deter frequent revisits.
85
Metascore
5.8
User Score
99%
TOMATOMETER
0%
User Score
6.8 /10
IMDb Rating
66
%
User Score
3.7
From 66 fan ratings
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