Why 'Flow' is a Must-Watch Animated Film That Won the Oscar Despite Its Tiny Budget

Gints Zilbalodis's Latvian animated film, Flow, unexpectedly emerged as one of 2024's most remarkable cinematic achievements. This groundbreaking movie garnered over 20 international awards, including a Golden Globe, and made history as the first Latvian production to win the coveted Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

Set in a hauntingly beautiful, post-apocalyptic world devoid of humanity, Flow follows a resourceful cat and other animal survivors navigating an impending global flood.

Table of Contents

• What Makes Flow So Extraordinary
• The Open-Ended Conclusion
• Recording Authentic Animal Sounds

What Makes Flow So Extraordinary

Animals Mirroring Human Behavior

Flow cleverly uses animals to explore complex human traits and social dynamics. The adaptable and resourceful cat embodies survival instincts, while the capybara, though calm and balanced, highlights the dangers of complacency. The secretary bird represents strong, sometimes unpopular, leadership, the labradors embody youthful energy and the need for connection, and the lemur serves as a critique of consumerism. These diverse personalities offer valuable lessons for children, while adults will recognize familiar behaviors. Director Gints Zilbalodis even drew parallels between building his team and the cat's journey of learning trust and collaboration.

A Story That Sparks Childlike Imagination

Released amidst global pandemic and political unrest, Flow resonates with contemporary anxieties about survival, cooperation, and environmental challenges. Without dialogue or human characters, the film encourages viewers to interpret its layers. The remnants of civilization hint at past floods and possible evacuations, leaving the fate of humanity ambiguous. The mysterious secretary bird further fuels speculation – is it divine intervention, hallucination, or a powerful leader?

The Open-Ended Conclusion

The film's open ending prompts viewers to ponder several possibilities: Will the animals coexist after the flood? How will their relationships evolve? What survival lessons can we learn? This multi-layered approach allows for deeply personal interpretations.

Unique Animation Style

Flow's visual style deviates from traditional animation, employing watercolor techniques and video game design to create a dreamlike quality. Unlike fast-paced blockbusters, its seamless transitions and extended shots fully immerse the viewer. This creates moments of cinematic magic, such as the unbroken camera follows through expansive landscapes.

No Words Needed

Flow masterfully demonstrates that compelling storytelling doesn't require dialogue. Through body language, facial expressions, and a carefully crafted soundscape, the film effectively communicates emotions and relationships.

Recording Authentic Animal Sounds

Capturing authentic animal sounds presented unique challenges. Recording the lead cat's natural vocalizations required covert methods. Capybaras' vocalizations only occur in specific situations (like being tickled!), necessitating creative solutions. Even common sounds were meticulously crafted to match each character's personality.

Critical Acclaim and Recognition

Despite its modest $3.5 million budget, Flow received widespread critical acclaim. Guillermo del Toro called it "a visionary beginning for animation's future," Bill Hader declared it "the best film of 2024," and Wes Anderson praised its "absolute uniqueness and wild excitement." Its success proves that creative vision and innovative techniques can overcome financial limitations to achieve global artistic recognition.