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 Leaves Viewers Pondering Multiple Possibilities
• Recording Authentic Animal Sounds Presented Unique Challenges

What Makes Flow So Extraordinary

Animals Mirroring Human Behavior

At its heart, Flow uses animals to explore complex human traits and social dynamics. The cat embodies adaptability and resourcefulness; the capybara, balance and calm (though also highlighting the dangers of complacency); the secretary bird, strong leadership; the labradors, youthful energy and the need for connection; and the lemur, a critique of consumerism. These characters create a rich tapestry of personalities offering lessons for children and familiar echoes for adults. 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 turmoil, Flow resonates with contemporary concerns about survival, cooperation, and environmental challenges. Without dialogue or human characters, the film invites viewers to interpret its many layers. What happened to humanity? Hints of past floods and possible evacuations are subtly presented, leaving the specifics ambiguous and encouraging audience speculation. The mysterious secretary bird further fuels this interpretation, prompting questions about its nature: divine intervention, hallucination, or simply a powerful leader?

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? What lessons about survival and community can we glean from their experiences? This multi-layered approach allows each viewer to find personal meaning.

Unique Animation Style: Deceptively Simple

Flow's visual style departs from traditional animation, creating a distinctive aesthetic that enhances its storytelling. Inspired by watercolor techniques and video game design, the animation achieves a dreamlike quality. Unlike blockbuster animations with sharp outlines and fast-paced editing, Flow's seamless transitions and extended shots fully immerse the audience, creating moments of pure cinematic magic.

No Words Needed

Flow proves compelling storytelling doesn't require dialogue. Through masterful use of body language, facial expressions, and natural soundscapes, 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 only occur in specific situations (like being tickled!), necessitating innovative solutions. Even common sounds were carefully crafted to match each character's personality.

Critical Acclaim and Recognition

Despite its modest $3.5 million budget—a fraction of competitors’—Flow received widespread praise. 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 demonstrates how creative vision and innovative techniques can overcome financial limitations to achieve worldwide artistic excellence.