‘Pepe’ Captivates Berlin Film Festival with Philosophical Tale of Escobar’s Hippo

Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias' film blends documentary and fiction to explore themes of identity and migration through the story of a cocaine hippo.

• The film 'Pepe' explores the story of a cocaine hippo from Pablo Escobar's menagerie, offering a philosophical and symbolic narrative.
• Director Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias uses a mix of documentary and fiction to delve into themes of colonialism, migration, and identity.
• Pepe's narration shifts between languages, reflecting on his fate and the circularity of coloniality.
• The film has been described as structurally messy but soulful, with moments of captivating cinematography.
• 'Pepe' has sparked discussions on its experimental approach and the broader implications of Escobar's legacy on Colombia's wildlife.

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