Heist of Benin has been announced as a new feature thriller directed by Ava DuVernay, with David Oyelowo set to star in the project. The project was unveiled at the Studiocanal Paris showcase, where the studio confirmed it will finance the film and oversee global distribution and international sales.
What Heist of Benin Is About
Heist of Benin is set against the backdrop of contemporary London and is described as a thriller that intertwines art, love, and restitution. While detailed plot points have not yet been disclosed, the title and thematic description point towards issues surrounding cultural heritage and the return of looted artworks. The concept aligns with ongoing global conversations around the Benin Bronzes and wider debates on restitution of African artefacts held in European institutions.
DuVernay and Oyelowo’s Creative Partnership
David Oyelowo will lead the cast, continuing his long-running professional collaboration with DuVernay across multiple projects. Their previous work includes Selma, the Academy Award-winning film centred on Dr Martin Luther King Jr and the 1965 Voting Rights March from Selma to Montgomery, in which Oyelowo portrayed King. Oyelowo later appeared in DuVernay’s studio feature A Wrinkle in Time.
DuVernay described the new film as a story grounded in both urgency and meaning. “This film speaks to history, identity, and love, all through the lens of a high-stakes, modern adventure,” she said, adding that she was excited to bring the project to life with Studiocanal. Oyelowo also commented on the project, stating, “Heist is that story. It’s thrilling and high-powered with deeply resonant themes that matter to us both.”
Production Details
The film is produced by Steve Richards and Jake Katofsky for Endurance Media, alongside Lisa Bruce and David Oyelowo under the Yoruba Saxon banner. The project originates from an original idea and spec script by screenwriter Jesse Quiñones, who will also serve as an executive producer.
During the same Paris showcase, Studiocanal also announced Elsinore, a separate feature from Simon Stone and Stephen Beresford starring Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman, focusing on the life of actor Ian Charleson.
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