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

Gints Zilbalodis's Latvian animated film, Flow, emerged in 2024 as a cinematic triumph, exceeding all expectations. This groundbreaking work garnered over 20 international awards, including a Golden Globe, and achieved a historic milestone as the first Latvian production to win the coveted Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

Set in a breathtakingly beautiful, yet haunting post-apocalyptic world devoid of humanity, Flow follows a resourceful cat and other animal survivors navigating a looming global flood.

Table of Contents

• Here's what makes Flow so extraordinary
• The open-ended conclusion leaves viewers pondering multiple possibilities
• Recording authentic animal sounds presented unique challenges

Here's what makes Flow so extraordinary

The Animals Mirror Human Behavior

At its heart, Flow uses animals to explore complex human traits and social dynamics. The adaptable and resourceful cat embodies resilience. The capybara, while calm and balanced, subtly warns against complacency. The secretary bird represents strong, decisive leadership, even when unpopular. The playful Labradors highlight youthful energy and the need for connection, while the lemur offers a critique of consumerism. These diverse characters create a rich tapestry of personalities, offering valuable lessons for children and relatable behaviors for adults. Director Gints Zilbalodis even draws parallels between his own team-building experience and the cat's journey of learning trust and collaboration.

The Story Sparks Childlike Imagination

Released amidst global pandemic recovery and political unrest, Flow resonates deeply with contemporary anxieties surrounding survival, cooperation, and environmental challenges.

Without dialogue or human characters, the film invites diverse interpretations. The remnants of civilization—boats hanging from trees—hint at past floods and possible evacuations, intentionally left ambiguous to encourage audience speculation. The enigmatic secretary bird raises intriguing questions about perception and reality: divine intervention, hallucination, or simply a powerful leader rising in crisis?

The open-ended conclusion leaves viewers pondering multiple possibilities

Will the characters find new ways to coexist after the flood? How will their relationships evolve under pressure? What lessons about survival and community can we glean from their experiences? This multifaceted approach allows for deeply personal interpretations.

Unique Animation Style Looks Deceptively Simple

Flow's visual style departs from traditional animation, creating a unique aesthetic that enhances its narrative. Inspired by watercolor techniques and video game design, the animation achieves a dreamlike quality perfectly complementing the film's themes. This distinctive approach, initially different from mainstream styles, draws viewers into its world. Unlike blockbuster animations with sharp lines and fast-paced editing, Flow's seamless transitions and extended shots provide complete immersion. These technical choices create moments of pure cinematic magic, such as the unbroken camera shots following characters across vast landscapes.

No Words Needed

Flow proves compelling storytelling transcends dialogue. Through masterful use of body language, facial expressions, and a natural soundscape, the film effectively communicates emotions and relationships.

Recording authentic animal sounds presented unique challenges

Recording the lead cat's natural vocalizations required covert methods. Capybaras' vocalizations are situation-specific (like being tickled!), necessitating creative solutions involving various species. Even common sounds were meticulously crafted to match each character's personality.

Critical Acclaim and Recognition

Despite a modest $3.5 million budget—a fraction of competitors’—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" (despite his cat allergy!), and Wes Anderson praised its "absolute uniqueness and wild excitement." The film's success showcases how creative vision and innovative techniques can overcome financial limitations to achieve global artistic excellence.