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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.

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.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Dahomey

Explore the complete cast of Dahomey, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


No actors found

Ratings and Reviews for Dahomey

See how Dahomey is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Dahomey stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

85

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

92
Echo Score

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.

88
Echo Score

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.

84
Echo Score

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.

82
Echo Score

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.

78
Echo Score

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.

Metacritic

85

Metascore

5.8

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

99%

TOMATOMETER

review

0%

User Score

IMDb

6.8 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

66

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.7

From 66 fan ratings

Awards & Nominations for Dahomey

Explore awards

Discover all the awards and nominations received by Dahomey, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how Dahomey and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.


30th Lumière Awards 2025

Mati Diop
Win

Best Documentary

Mati Diop

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Dahomey

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Dahomey. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer [Subtitled]

Official Trailer #2 [Subtitled]

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


benindahomey kingdomrepatriationone word titlestatueafricatitle directed by femaleno title at beginningnightf ratedparis francemuseumno opening creditstitle at the end

Articles, Reviews & Explainers About Dahomey

Stay updated on Dahomey with in-depth articles, critical reviews, and ending explainers. Explore hidden meanings, major themes, and expert insights into the film’s story and impact.


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