The Hippopotamus (2025) made waves as one of Netflix’s biggest blockbuster releases of the year. Premiering globally on September 20, 2025, the film combined thrilling creature-horror action with A-list star power, featuring Dwayne Johnson, Jason Momoa, and Jason Statham.
Set against the dangerous rivers of Africa, the film follows three hardened adventurers who stumble upon a genetically enhanced, monstrous hippopotamus unleashed by an illegal bio-weapons experiment. What begins as a survival mission quickly escalates into an all-out war against one of nature’s deadliest predators—only this time, it’s bigger, stronger, and far more intelligent than anyone imagined.
Directed by James Wan, known for blending horror and action seamlessly, The Hippopotamus was produced with an estimated budget of $160 million. The massive budget was driven by groundbreaking CGI to bring the terrifying hippo to life, along with extensive location shoots in South Africa and large-scale water-based stunt work.
The investment paid off. Within just the first week of release, the film set a new Netflix record, amassing over 120 million viewing hours, surpassing previous hits in the action-horror category. By its first month, it ranked in Netflix’s Top 10 Most-Watched Movies of All Time, proving the global appetite for monster-action spectacles.
Critics praised the film’s mix of heart-pounding suspense and over-the-top action, while fans celebrated the chemistry between Johnson, Momoa, and Statham—three action titans united on screen for the first time. The creature design, especially the jaw-dropping “river ambush” sequence, became an instant highlight and was widely shared across social media.
Merchandise sales, including action figures, graphic novels, and a companion video game, further amplified the success. Netflix executives have already hinted at spin-offs and sequels, given the overwhelming response.
With its combination of thrilling spectacle, memorable performances, and strong global reception, The Hippopotamus stands as one of Netflix’s most ambitious and successful original films of 2025, solidifying its place in the streaming giant’s growing library of blockbuster hits.
