‘Flow’ ('Straume') (2024)

Chronicling the odyssey of a solitary feline as its home is devastated by a sudden flood, ‘Flow’ follows a cat through ups and downs as he tries to survive the unexpected onslaught. Finding his way to a boat, the cat finds himself traveling with other animals. Not used to company, they journey together to seek refuge.

Entirely rendered on Blender and containing no dialogue, director Gints Zilbalodis has created a singular experience. With a minimalist approach, yet not sacrificing any of its stunning visuals, ‘Flow’ delivers a truly universal and congenial tale. Without undue sentimentality however, the film covers a wealth of serious themes, ranging from loyalty and friendship to honor and justice.

Initially, the story may appear simple and almost infantile, as we follow cat and his morning route, wandering the forest, evading a pack of dogs and lazing in his home. Undeniably agreeable however, the film ventures to shift drastically in tone. As unwelcome as the sudden flood itself, cat is thrown into shock and a panic as he tries to survive the abrupt rush. The change in atmosphere is arresting, prompting an unavoidable vested interest in the well being of the cat.

Managing to find his way out of the water to a high enough monument, ironically that of a cat, he sees a boat near in the distance. Mustering his way onboard, he is greeted by a capybara. Nervous and with his guard up, cat is weary of the stranger, but the capybara acts as a pacifier. Greeting cat and ensuring there is no conflict with the capybara, the two make their way forward carried by the flood.

The wordless interaction between the two animals relays universal sentiments, - fear, anxiety, acceptance and contentment, - without resorting to overtly dramatic ploys. Rather, the two new travelers meet and go through an entire arc from strangers to confidants, as both seek sanctuary and find their shared goal a unifying force.

Meeting other travelers along the way – a lemur, a secretary bird and a labrador, the newfound group explore difficulties along the way, such as standing up for one another, traversing difficult paths and taking onboard more strays. The mixed group work their way through complicated issues of loyalty and righteousness, covering a wealth of ideas about justice, friendship and loss.

Remaining entertaining throughout, ‘Flow’ delivers a steady progression in terms of story and character development. Finding its way to expressing the animal’s innermost wants and thoughts, the film provides for a fully immersive experience, creating individuals worth caring for.

Tragedy strikes along the way, as secretary bird is whisked away in a mesmerizing and fantastical sequence, much to the dismay of cat. The kaleidoscopic scene opens the door to a further discussion about the films nature, namely that it is either not entirely rooted in our reality or that it may all be an abstract form of expression of the cats imagination, to be able to better cope with his circumstances. Thought provoking and gripping, the film evokes complicated thoughts worth exploring.

The film culminates with the water receding as rapidly as it had appeared, with the group reforming after losing one another. Examining the devastation they come together, only for signs of a further flood appearing before them, with the animals bracing together for what may come.

Written by Zilbalodis and Matīss Kaža, ‘Flow’ explores very human traits through animals. Dealing with tragedy, loss and wholly new and unexpected experiences, the animals are put to the test in overcoming their obstacles. Heartfelt and devastating, the film allows one to experience the tragedy through the animals, allowing us to explore our own reaction to such circumstances, always remaining hopeful and looking to the future, seeking consolation in the friends we find along the way.

Score: 4/4