Dahomey

‘Dahomey’ and ‘Sugarcane,’ two acclaimed documentaries vying for Oscar recognition, tackle the legacies of colonialism.

Here’s a closer look at “Dahomey” and “Sugarcane.”

The voice emanates from the artifact labeled “26,” a statue of Dahomey’s King Ghézo.

The top prize at this year’s Berlin International Film Festival was given to “Dahomey,” a documentary by the French filmmaker Mati Diop about 26 looted artworks that were returned to Benin from France in 2021.

The deal followed French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision in 2021 to sign over 26 pieces known as the Abomey Treasures, priceless artworks of the 19th century Dahomey kingdom in present-day Benin.