Hot Snakes Media Founder & Wildlife Expert Form Phantasticus Pictures

Hot Snakes Media’s founder, Eric Evangelista, and wildlife expert Forrest Galante have formed a new production company, Phantasticus Pictures.

As an arm of Hot Snakes Media, Phantasticus Pictures will aim to create seminal wildlife and adventure programming with a purpose. Phantasticus is the only production company that actively finances conservation work in exchange for filming rights to bring exposure to causes.

Phantasticus produced Wetmarkets Exposed on Viceland and Mystery of the Black Demon Shark on discovery+. Its upcoming slate includes Mysterious Creatures with Forrest Galante, set to launch on October 17 on Animal Planet and discovery+.

“I’m excited to team up with Forrest as he brings rare, firsthand expertise to wildlife storytelling,” said Evangelista. “He has forged his own avenue as an expert in this space, and while most producers create wildlife programming with backgrounds in film, Forrest’s extensive background in animal sciences drives a unique approach. He seamlessly integrates high-value production insights as these complementary efforts deliver an authenticity to the journey and an enhanced viewer experience.”

“Having worked with Eric on Shark Week programming and several other notable wildlife shows, there is no other creative in the industry I would want to launch this production company with,” said Galante. “His talent, ability to know what resonates with viewers and drive are unmatched. And our mission and values align to bring untold stories from remote parts of the world to the forefront in order to educate, engage and inspire viewers around the globe.”