Watch The Hunt for Escobar's Hippos

The Hunt for Escobar's Hippos is a documentary film that explores the legacy of the infamous Colombian drug lord, Pablo Escobar, and the unexpected impact he had on the country's ecosystem. Despite being one of the most violent and notorious criminals of the 20th century, Escobar had a soft spot for exotic animals and kept a private zoo on his estate, including several hippos. When he was killed in 1993, the hippos were released into the wild and have since bred and multiplied to become a major ecological issue in Colombia.

The film follows a team of biologists, conservationists and locals as they attempt to track down and capture the remaining hippos, in order to prevent the spread of invasive species and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Along the way, they delve into the history of Escobar's reign of terror, the commercialisation of his legacy, and the complexities of managing an environmental crisis in a developing country.

Directed by Tommy Pallotta, the film features interviews with experts, activists, and ordinary citizens who are affected by the presence of the hippos. At the centre of the story is the charismatic, larger-than-life character of Lawrence, a South African conservationist who has taken it upon himself to lead the hunt for the hippos. Lawrence is both dedicated and slightly eccentric, with a passion for his work that borders on obsession. His team includes Colombian scientists and volunteers who are equally committed to the task at hand, but have to navigate the challenges of bureaucracy, red tape, and a lack of resources.

As the team ventures into the wild, they encounter a range of obstacles, from perilous river crossings to aggressive hippos and skeptical locals. The film does an admirable job of balancing the more thrilling aspects of the hunt with the deeper questions it raises about global conservation efforts. The hippos are not just a symbol of Escobar's excess and brutality, but a symptom of a larger problem of human impact on the natural world. The team's mission is not just about capturing hippos, but about challenging the status quo and rethinking our relationship with the environment.

One of the strengths of the film is its human element. While the hippos are undeniably fascinating creatures with a rich history, it is the people involved in the hunt who bring the story to life. From the passionate conservationists to the wary farmers who have to coexist with the hippos, each person has their own perspective and motivation. The film takes care to avoid simplistic notions of good and evil, instead exploring the nuances of a complex issue.

Another strength of the film is its stunning visuals. The Colombian landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, and the hippos themselves are imposing and majestic creatures. The camera work is expertly done, capturing both the grandeur and the danger of the environment. The use of drone footage in particular adds a level of awe to the proceedings, showcasing the scale of the hunt and the challenge facing the team.

Overall, The Hunt for Escobar's Hippos is a compelling and thought-provoking film. It tackles big-picture issues with intelligence and sensitivity, while never losing sight of the human stories at its heart. Whether you're interested in conservation, true crime, or simply want to see some hippos, this documentary is well worth a watch.

The Hunt for Escobar's Hippos is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 51 minutes.