**Oscars: Senegal Chooses Mati Diop’s ‘Dahomey’ for International Feature Film Submission**
Senegal has officially nominated French-Senegalese director Mati Diop’s acclaimed documentary “Dahomey,” which recently took home the prestigious Golden Bear, for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. This exciting announcement comes on the heels of the film’s North American premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and its upcoming U.S. debut at the Camden International Film Festival this weekend, followed by a screening at the New York Film Festival in October.
“Dahomey,” Diop’s second full-length feature, draws its title from the historic West African kingdom, which thrived in what is now southern Benin. Established in the 17th century under King Houegbadja, the kingdom boasted a highly organized local economy, established governance, and a formidable military, famously including the renowned female warriors known as the Agodjié.
The narrative of “Dahomey” unfolds as twenty-six royal artifacts, plundered by French colonial forces in 1892, prepare to be repatriated from France back to their homeland. This poignant documentary raises questions about the significance of these treasures in a nation that has evolved amidst their absence. The film dives deep into the discourse among students at the University of Abomey-Calavi, exploring the cultural and historical implications surrounding the artifacts.
Diop, who previously gained international acclaim for her debut feature “Atlantics,” which won the Grand Prix at Cannes and found worldwide distribution through Netflix, underscores the importance of “Dahomey” as not just a cinematic work but as a cultural commentary. This film marks the first endeavor from Fanta Sy, the production company she founded with Senegalese industry veteran Fabacary Assymby Coly earlier this year. Diop expressed her intention to leverage her connections to promote films that her company supports, thus enhancing their visibility in global festivals and distribution channels.
With the Oscars’ shortlist set to be revealed on December 17, “Dahomey” emerges as a strong contender representing Senegal, capturing both historical depth and contemporary relevance.
Stay tuned for updates as the awards season unfolds, and be prepared to witness the journey of “Dahomey” as it navigates the competitive landscape of international cinema.