Nelson Carlo de Los Santos Arias, the director behind the film “Pepe,” unveiled the captivating story of a hippopotamus once owned by Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The film showcased at the Berlin International Film Festival, delves into the escapades of Pepe, who escaped from Escobar’s private menagerie and embarked on a perilous journey.
Filming in Namibia and Colombia proved challenging as the crew encountered the unpredictability of hippos firsthand. The film sheds light on the ecological impact of Escobar’s exotic animal collection and explores the complex issues surrounding the hippos’ presence in Colombia. Despite the controversy, Pepe’s story resonates as a poignant reflection on colonialism, environmental threats, and human-animal dynamics, captivating audiences at the prestigious film festival.