SYN Takes MIFF: Pepe Review

Feature image via MIFF // Common State Media (used for review)

Nelson Carlo De Los Santos Arias’s Pepe offers a unique perspective on the life of a hippopotamus, told from his own ghostly viewpoint. Set in Colombia, the film blends folklore with reflection, highlighting the challenges Pepe faced, including a dramatic encounter with an army. A memorable scene features a tour bus where a guide humorously suggests that pulling a hippo’s nose could turn it into an elephant, adding a quirky touch to the story.

Pepe is a thought-provoking film that explores human impact on nature through rich cultural storytelling.

I watched the movie in one of the cinemas at the ACMI, which I felt was a great choice for the film. The screen was large enough to capture the film's beautiful cinematography, and the seating was comfortable, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

I would recommend the film because it tells an interesting story about the hippo's life from his own perspective, giving us insight into what it was like for him before his tragic end. The acting was intense and dramatic, especially in the scene where a man and his wife are arguing, adding to the film's emotional weight. The film also had a mysterious atmosphere, particularly in the scenes involving the hippo in the water and the men travelling by truck.

The cinematic elements that stood out included the use of camera shots and angles, which effectively set the tone for each scene. I appreciated the establishing shots that showcased the locations and the build-up in the music that created a sense of anticipation for what would happen next. This added to the film’s mysterious feel and kept the audience engaged.

A key moment I enjoyed was when the hippopotamus was in the water, and the main character was searching for it. The tour bus scene, where they explored the area with the animals, was also a highlight for me.

Coming into the screening, I expected to learn about the hippopotamus's behaviour and life story. While I wasn’t expecting much beyond a simple recount, the film exceeded my expectations by providing a deeper, more reflective narrative