06 Sep TIFF REVIEW – ‘Flow’ is one of the best animated films of the year
A wordless cinematic journey from director Gints Zilbalodis that speaks through its breathtaking visuals, gorgeous story, lovable characters, and evocative score, Flow delivers a staggering impressive film both meditative and emotionally charged. It’s a testament to the universal language of visual storytelling, even as it tests the patience of those more accustomed to conventional narratives. Stunningly crafted and deceptively emotional, Flow is an utter gem and one of the best animated films of the year.
The curious feline soon forms an unlikely alliance with a docile capybara, a mischievous lemur, a cautious secretarybird, and a cheerful Labrador Retriever. Though initially strained, the group gradually learns to work together, pooling their strengths and forging bonds as they navigate treacherous waters in search of dry land. Amid challenges like dwindling resources, the vast expanse of water, and the necessity of trust, the animals discover the power of unity and resilience. Their journey is as much about survival as it is about forming connections in an unforgiving, transformed world.
The heart of Flow lies in its stunning animation, a hallmark of Zilbalodis’s style. Known for his one-man animation work on Away, the director expands his vision here with a more layered and textured aesthetic akin to something from a storybook. The minimalist yet vivid landscapes pulse with life, their simplicity masking the incredible artistry involved. His use of colour and light creates true visual poetry in motion.
Particularly striking is the way Flow uses movement to tell its story, seamlessly blending moments of quiet reflection with bursts of kinetic energy. The water itself becomes a character, its ceaseless ebb and flow rendered with a hypnotic, almost meditative quality. The camera work, often mimicking the perspective of a drifting observer, enhances the sense of isolation and wonder that permeates the film. The decision to eschew dialogue further emphasises the visual storytelling, relying on subtle expressions, body language, and environmental details to convey the animals’ emotions and the stakes of their journey.
Each environment feels distinct and alive, yet all are bound by a cohesive visual language that mirrors the protagonist’s internal journey. The transitions between these worlds are seamless, almost hypnotic, lending the film a dreamlike quality that is both calming and unsettling. Whether it’s the reflective stillness of a moonlit lake or the overwhelming vastness of a desert, Zilbalodis ensures every frame feels intentional, each detail contributing to the larger narrative tapestry.
In a film without dialogue, sound takes on an elevated role, and Flow excels in this department. Composer Rihards Zaļupe crafts a score that is as dynamic as it is poignant. The music swells and recedes in harmony with the protagonist’s journey, capturing moments of both quiet introspection and high tension. Zaļupe fills every moment of silence with emotional resonance, guiding the audience through the narrative without ever feeling intrusive.
Equally impressive is the sound design, which layers naturalistic effects with more abstract elements. The rustle of leaves, the splash of water, and the hum of the wheels are rendered with meticulous care, grounding the fantastical world in sensory reality and creating a deeply immersive adventure.
At its core, Flow is a story about perseverance and transformation. The absence of dialogue allows the film to transcend language barriers, making its themes accessible to a global audience. While centred on animals, it’s still an undeniably touching eloquent exploration of the human condition. The journey of these creatures is relatable in its abstraction; they become the everyman figures, their struggles and triumphs emblematic of universal human experiences.
Zilbalodis’ refusal to provide any concrete answers or exposition may frustrate audiences seeking a more traditional story. But therein lies the beauty of something so boldly original. It’s a film that asks an audience to accept it on its own terms. Zilbalodis continues to establish himself as a unique voice in animation, one unafraid to push the boundaries of the medium. The film’s ambition and craftsmanship are undeniable, and its emotional resonance is a testament to the power of visual storytelling.
Flow is not just a film; it’s an experience. It’s a silent odyssey that’s a deeply moving reflection of the human condition. Its striking visuals, evocative score, and universal themes combine to create a work of art that is as beautiful as it is thought-provoking. While its minimalist approach and deliberate pacing may challenge some viewers, those willing to immerse themselves in its world will be richly rewarded.
In a landscape dominated by dialogue-heavy blockbusters, Flow stands as a quiet yet powerful testament to the possibilities of cinema. For those seeking a meditative, emotionally resonant journey, Flow is a must-watch. And in its silence, it speaks volumes.
Distributor: Janus Films (U.S.) / Madman Films (Australia)
Director: Gints Zilbalodis
Producers: Gints Zilbalodis Matīss Kaža Ron Dyens Gregory Zalcman
Screenplay: Gints Zilbalodis, Matīss Kaža
Production Design: Raymond Zibach
Editor: Gints Zilbalodis
Music: Gints Zilbalodis, Rihards Zaļupe
Running Time: 85 minutes
Release Date: 20th March 2025 (Australia)