Divine Body (1998)

Divine Body (1998) follows the journey of an aging Peugeot as it navigates through the bustling streets of Cotonou, Benin. The documentary chronicles the car's journey through various owners, each with their unique stories and daily struggles. Initially, the car is owned by Simon, a humanitarian aid worker, who uses it within the confines of his professional circle. Next, Joseph, Simon's cook, takes over and operates it as an unofficial taxi service. Subsequently, a group of mechanics takes on the challenge of keeping the car running despite its frequent breakdowns. Eventually, the car succumbs to its wear and tear, ending up as a discarded shell on the street. At this point, Simonet, a blacksmith and sculptor, repurposes some of the car parts to create a sculpture of Agbo, the voodoo god of the "masters of the night," commissioned by the village elders of Ouassa. The sculpture embarks on a lengthy journey by dugout canoe through the lagoons of Benin, ultimately becoming a protective fetish for the people of Ouassa.