**Hopper and the Secret of the Marmot: the animated film now available on VOD**

Hopper and the Secret of the Marmot is a family-friendly animated film directed by Benjamin Mousquet, co-written with Dave Collard and Chris Grine. Produced by the Belgian studio nWave, the feature was released in French theaters on October 15, 2025, with a planned VOD release set for February 12, 2026. Aimed at young audiences from age 6 and up, the film expands the world established by Hopper and the Dark Hamster, while offering an independent adventure centered around a new animal legend.

Voiced by the French talents of Thomas Solivérès, Chloé Jouannet, and Nicolas Maury, the film blends adventure, comedy, and fantasy into a family-friendly story. It marks the continuation of the collaboration between Benjamin Mousquet and nWave studio, renowned for its popular animated productions accessible to all ages.

The legend whispers of a mysterious marmot living deep within an isolated mountain, said to possess the power to travel through time. When Hopper, daring and curious explorer, learns that this creature might hold the key to saving his species, he sets out on a daring quest. His journey takes him through rugged terrains, where he encounters unexpected allies and fierce rivals all eager to harness this extraordinary power for themselves.

Throughout his journey, Hopper faces challenges that test his courage and sense of responsibility. The adventure then takes on a more personal dimension, centered on self-discovery, mutual support, and passing on knowledge—all set against a backdrop of ancient myth and a race against the clock.

The trailer for Hopper and the Marmot’s Secret

Hopper and the Marmot’s Hidden Secret

• To be read
• Top cinemas in Paris

Produced by the Belgian animation studio nWave, Hopper and the Secret of the Marmot continues the studio’s strong focus on family-friendly films. The studio gained recognition across Europe with hits like Royal Corgi, The Journey of Sami, and Bigfoot Family, all of which enjoyed great success at the box office. This new project reaffirms nWave’s commitment to crafting engaging animated worlds that are both accessible and filled with meaningful storytelling for children.

The film stands out with its mountainous setting and its central fantastical element: time travel. Rather than serving as a spectacle-driven gimmick, this concept functions as the story’s main dramatic engine. Created using 3D animation, it features a vibrant and clear visual style designed to be immediately accessible and engaging for a young audience.

In terms of tone, Hopper and the Marmot’s Secret maintains a brisk pace, blending action-packed scenes with comedic moments and quieter, more reflective ones. The themes it explores—friendship, identity, legacy, and responsibility—are familiar territory for family animation, echoing classics like Zootopia or Ice Age, even if it doesn’t directly imitate them.

Hopper and the Groundhog’s Secret
Animated film | 2025
In theaters: October 15, 2025
Available on VOD from February 12, 2026
Animation, adventure, comedy, family | Duration: 1h29
Directed by Benjamin Mousquet | Starring Thomas Solivérès, Chloé Jouannet, Nicolas Maury
Original title: Chickenhare and the Secret of the Groundhog
Country: Belgium

Hopper and the Marmot's Secret

With this new adventure, Hopper and the Marmot's Secret expands an already familiar universe for young audiences, while offering an independent story. Its dual release strategy—initially in cinemas and later on VOD in early 2026—ensures the film becomes a lasting part of the family-friendly animation options available during and beyond school holidays.

To explore further, check out our selection of February's latest VOD releases, our guide to new streaming releases across all platforms, and today's pick: What to stream today.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.