7 Unbelievable Secrets Behind Hammy The Squirrel's Super Speed In Over The Hedge

Hammy the squirrel, the hyperactive, cookie-obsessed, and surprisingly philosophical character from DreamWorks’ Over the Hedge (2006), remains one of the most beloved and endlessly quotable animated characters nearly two decades after his debut. As of late 2024, discussions about a potential DreamWorks revival have brought Hammy's unique brand of manic energy and his iconic super-speed sequence back into the spotlight, prompting fans to revisit the biggest mystery of the film: just how fast is this little red squirrel, really?

This article dives deep into the character’s origins, his unforgettable moments, and the physics-defying scene that cemented his status as a cinematic legend, revealing the latest context and fan theories that keep the character fresh and relevant today. We’ll explore the surprising connection to his famous voice actor and the one food item he can never resist.

Hammy’s Complete Profile and Biography

Before diving into the mechanics of his incredible speed, it is essential to appreciate the full scope of Hammy’s character, which originated in a long-running newspaper comic strip before the DreamWorks film adaptation. He is the heart and comic relief of the woodland crew, often providing accidental genius amid his boundless naivety.

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• Full Name/Species: Hammy the American Red Squirrel
• First Appearance (Comic Strip): July 12, 1995, in the Over the Hedge comic strip by Michael Fry and T. Lewis.
• First Appearance (Film): Over the Hedge (2006), produced by DreamWorks Animation.
• Voice Actor: The celebrated actor and comedian Steve Carell.
• Key Personality Traits: Hyperactive, extremely naive, childish, short attention span, fiercely loyal, and possessing a big heart.
• Signature Obsession: Cookies (specifically the Girl Scout cookies he helps steal in the famous "Crazy Squirrel" scene).
• Famous Quote: "But I like a cookie!"
• Hidden Talent: Super-speed (or the perception of it) after consuming a highly caffeinated energy drink.

The Shocking Physics of Hammy’s Super Speed

Hammy’s most iconic and analyzed moment comes during the climax of the film when the woodland animals are cornered by the villainous exterminator, Dwayne LaFontant, also known as "The Verminator," and the enraged homeowner, Gladys Sharp. To save his friends, Hammy consumes a highly caffeinated, sugar-laden energy drink, which triggers his extraordinary ability.

This scene is not just a joke; it is a profound visual representation of time dilation, a concept usually reserved for science fiction. For Hammy, the world slows to a near-complete stop, allowing him to move through laser grids and past the exterminator's traps with ease.

1. The Energy Drink Trigger

The energy drink acts as the catalyst, but it is implied that Hammy’s natural, hyperactive state—his already-fast metabolism—is the underlying source of his potential. The drink simply pushes his perception into overdrive. In this state, he can casually stroll through a complex laser security system, placing every stolen food item back into the log, rearranging the entire scene, and even having a brief conversation with a bee, all while the other characters are frozen mid-blink.

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2. Calculating His True Velocity

While the film never gives an exact number, fan theorists have attempted to calculate Hammy’s speed based on the slow-motion effect. If a typical blink takes about 100 milliseconds, and Hammy completes multiple complex tasks during a single blink, his speed is astronomical. Some estimates suggest that his "normal" running speed for an American red squirrel is already high, around 65 mph, but during the energy drink sequence, his perceived speed is effectively limitless, as he is operating at a fraction of a second.

3. The "Flash" Comparison

Hammy’s speed is often compared to DC Comics' The Flash. The key difference is that The Flash is a true speedster, while Hammy’s ability is presented as extreme, hyper-caffeinated perception. However, the visual effect in the film is functionally the same: he can move through a frozen world. This makes Hammy one of the most unexpectedly powerful characters in the entire DreamWorks catalog.

The Deep Connection Between Hammy and Steve Carell

One of the most charming aspects of the character is the perfect synergy between Hammy’s animation and the voice work of Steve Carell. Carell, known for his roles in The Office and The 40-Year-Old Virgin, brought a unique, high-pitched, and slightly manic innocence to the role, making Hammy instantly lovable.

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4. The "Steve" Fun Fact

In a delightful piece of trivia, when the animals first encounter the massive suburban hedge that separates their forest from the human neighborhood, Hammy is the one who suggests a name for it. He excitedly exclaims, "We should call it… Steve!" This line is a direct, subtle nod to his voice actor, Steve Carell, a fun piece of meta-humor that fans still enjoy discovering today.

5. The Cookie Heist Masterpiece

Hammy’s performance in the "Crazy Squirrel" scene is a masterclass in comedic voice acting. Tasked with distracting a group of Girl Scouts to steal their cookies, Hammy channels his inner-craziness, flailing his tail and eyes in a rabid, exaggerated display. This scene, driven by his pure, unadulterated love for the sugary treat, is one of the most memorable and frequently rewatched clips from the film.

The Future: Will We See Hammy Again?

Despite the original film’s massive box office success, grossing over $300 million worldwide, a direct cinematic sequel, Over the Hedge 2, has never materialized. This lack of a follow-up has been a long-standing disappointment for fans of RJ the Raccoon, Verne the Turtle, Stella the Skunk, and of course, Hammy.

6. The DreamWorks Revival Buzz

The good news for Hammy enthusiasts is that DreamWorks Animation has shown a recent interest in reviving older, successful properties. The topic of an Over the Hedge revival or sequel is frequently discussed in industry circles and on fan forums, especially as the studio looks to capitalize on nostalgia. While there is no official, confirmed announcement for a 2024 or 2025 release, the possibility remains a strong point of hope for the franchise.

7. Hammy's Enduring Legacy

Hammy’s character transcends the film’s plot about suburban sprawl and consumerism. He represents pure, unfiltered joy and loyalty. His simple desire for a cookie, his complete lack of malice, and his unexpected heroism make him the moral (and often literal) center of the group. Whether he is confusing a potato chip for a "flimsy, salty flat thing" or zipping across a room at impossible speeds, Hammy the squirrel is a timeless character whose legacy—and potential for a sequel—continues to capture the imagination of a new generation of viewers.

The hyperactive squirrel remains one of DreamWorks’ most enduring and unique creations, a testament to the power of a great voice actor and a hilarious, well-written character. Let's hope that if a sequel ever gets the green light, Hammy gets all the cookies he can handle.