Ava DuVernay and David Oyelowo Re-Team for 'Heist of Benin' Movie from Studiocanal & Endurance Media
LOS ANGELES — Acclaimed director Ava DuVernay is set to collaborate once again with actor David Oyelowo on Heist of Benin, a high-stakes historical drama centered on the fight to reclaim African artifacts stolen during the colonial era.
The project was announced today as a collaboration between Studiocanal and Endurance Media, marking a highly anticipated reunion for the director and star, who previously worked together on the Oscar-nominated film Selma.
What is 'Heist of Benin' About?
Heist of Benin moves beyond the traditional narrative of a museum heist. The film is described as a "dignity heist," focusing on the true story of activists, intellectuals, and a courageous Nigerian royal who orchestrate a plan to retrieve priceless Benin Bronzes held illegally in Western museums since the brutal British Punitive Expedition of 1897.
The story highlights the global cultural reckoning happening today, where African nations are demanding the return of thousands of artifacts currently housed in European and American institutions.
Key Talent & Production
Ava DuVernay will direct the feature, bringing her signature focus on historical narrative and social justice to the project. DuVernay has most recently been promoting her critically acclaimed film Origin.
David Oyelowo is attached to star in a leading role. Oyelowo, known for his powerful portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, is also producing the film through his own production banner, alongside Studiocanal and Endurance Media.
The script is being penned by British writer Joseph Charlton.
Production Details
Studio: Studiocanal and Endurance Media
Director: Ava DuVernay
Star/Producer: David Oyelowo
Genre: Historical Drama, Thriller
Status: Currently in development; filming locations and start dates are pending confirmation.
Why This Film Matters
The return of the Benin Bronzes is a major point of discussion in international relations and museum ethics. Many institutions, including the British Museum and the Smithsonian, still house these controversial objects. Heist of Benin aims to bring this complex historical narrative to a global audience through an entertaining, thriller-style format.
"Bringing this powerful story of cultural reclamation to the screen is an honor," said DuVernay in a press release. "Working with David again allows us to tackle vital history with the scope and urgency it deserves."
Heist of Benin joins a growing slate of prestige historical films from both Studiocanal and Endurance Media aimed at international distribution.