Dahomey

Tropic Sprockets by Ian Brockway

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Mati Diop (“Atlantics”) delivers a masterful affecting documentary in “Dahomey,” about the theft and rightful place of Benin artifacts. They were acquired and have been controlled by the French government for nearly 100 years. This film is poignant, haunting, and immersive. It draws one in like a matinee suspense tale even without the famed fictional archaeologist Indiana Jones.

The film highlights the moment when King Ghézo (in sacred statue form) is about to be sent to his birthplace in Benin as restitution. Also returned are Crown Prince Glele and King Béhanzin as a marvelous man-shark hybrid. The kings were held in bondage and captivity on display in France at Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac. The moment of restitution will produce tears. As each king is nestled in his cargo, they are treated with the care reverence and respect their title deserves.

King Ghézo (in voiceover by Makenzy Orcel) laments and chastises Western society for European colonization and slavery that resulted in his kidnapping. Where is his voice, where is his true home and can he ever rest? No answers are guilt free.

Dignitaries arrive at Palais de la Marina in Cotonou to see the king’s return.

Students at The University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin passionately discuss restitution, cultural burglary, the injustice of colonization and the moral sliminess of appropriation. It is a moment where the nation of Dahomey (now Benin) rejoices but the savage hands of France are karmically held in just wrath. With 7,000 royal pieces taken and only a mere 26 now home in Benin, King Béhanzin weeps.

Diop has created a striking an emotive documentary. Through her crystalline reflective lens-like hands, the director has given Prince Glele, King Béhanzin and King Ghézo their rightful status and respect. These men are not inanimate figures nor are they mortal. Under the cosmology of Vodún, they are actual sacred beings. Not since the purple banners of Wakanda under King T’Challa, has there been such reverence.

Write Ian at ianfree11@yahoo.com