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 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

• 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 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 while resonating with familiar behaviors for adults. Director Gints Zilbalodis even drew parallels between his team-building experience and the cat's journey of learning trust and collaboration.

The Story Sparks Childlike Imagination

Released amidst a world grappling with pandemic and political turmoil, Flow resonates deeply with contemporary anxieties surrounding survival, cooperation, and environmental challenges.

Without dialogue or human characters, the film invites interpretation. The remnants of civilization (boats hanging from trees) hint at previous floods and possible evacuations, deliberately ambiguous details encouraging audience theorizing. The mysterious secretary bird raises questions about perception and reality—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 post-flood? How will their relationships evolve? What survival and community lessons can we learn? This multi-layered approach allows for deeply personal interpretations.

Unique Animation Style Looks Deceptively Simple

Flow's visual style departs from traditional animation, creating a distinctive aesthetic that complements its themes. Inspired by watercolor and video game design, it achieves a dreamlike quality. Unlike blockbuster animation with sharp outlines and fast-paced editing, Flow's seamless transitions and extended shots fully immerse the audience, creating moments of cinematic magic (e.g., extended shots following characters through landscapes).

No Words Needed

Flow proves compelling storytelling doesn't require dialogue. Expert use of body language, facial expressions, and natural soundscapes effectively communicate emotions and relationships.

Recording authentic animal sounds presented unique challenges

Recording the lead cat's natural vocalizations required covert methods. Capybaras only vocalize 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 showcases how creative vision and innovative techniques can overcome financial limitations to achieve worldwide artistic excellence.