James Nunn’s Killer Hippo Movie ‘Hungry’ Begins Production

The survival thriller Hungry, currently in production in Malta, promises to add a unique playful twist to the creature-feature genre. Directed and written by James Nunn (One Shot, Shark Bait), the film follows a group of holidaymakers who find themselves battling for survival against a rampaging hippo in the treacherous Louisiana swamplands. Backed by Signature Entertainment, Hungry is shaping up to deliver a terrifying encounter with nature’s deadliest—and often underestimated—predators.

Nunn’s latest project builds on his knack for crafting suspenseful tales of survival, this time swapping shark-infested waters for murky wetlands. While the premise may evoke playful associations with the classic board game Hungry Hungry Hippos, Hungry takes a much darker turn, focusing on the raw ferocity of an apex predator unleashed. The film capitalises on the growing popularity of creature-based horror, which has seen a resurgence with films centred on sharks, crocodiles, and even bears dominating streaming platforms and box offices.

Bringing the rampaging hippo to life are acclaimed MUFX designer Dan Martin (The Banshees of Inisherin, Possessor) and VFX powerhouse Magic Dust VFX (True Detective: Night Country, One Piece). Together, they aim to create a creature as visually captivating as it is terrifying, using cutting-edge effects to heighten the tension and thrills. Nunn’s expertise in high-stakes action ensures the hippo will be more than a simple backdrop—it will be a relentless force driving the story forward.

Mark Goldberg, CEO of Signature Entertainment, and Sarah Gabriel, head of production and development, serve as executive producers, underscoring the company’s commitment to bold, innovative genre projects. Producer Ben Jacques, a frequent collaborator with Nunn, adds his experience to this ambitious endeavour.

While Hungry is not affiliated with Hasbro’s beloved tabletop game, the shared concept of “hungry” hippos is likely to draw curiosity from fans of unconventional creature features.

With production already underway, Hungry is poised to deliver a fresh and thrilling take on survival horror when it claws its way onto screens. Let’s hope it can make as big of a slash as Signature’s last big hit – Terrfier 3.

@lovehorroruk Signature Entertainment have announced their new upcoming hippo survival thriller; Hungry ?? We can’t wait to dust off our favourite nostalgic childhood boardgame ‘Hungry Hungry Hippos’ and have a hippo filled movie night! ? Follow for more upcoming horror news! Love Horror presented by @Alex ? #HorrorMovie #HorrorMovies #NewFilm #HorrorTok #HorrorNews ? Mysterious and sad BGM(1120058) – S and N