Italian
Latvia’s animated gem “Flow” sets sail for the Oscars
A new contender in the international feature category
Latvia has made a bold choice for the 97th Academy Awards by selecting Gints Zilbalodis’ “Flow” as its entry in the best international feature category. This animated feature, which had its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival, has already garnered significant acclaim, winning four prestigious prizes at Annecy.
A journey through festivals and accolades
Sideshow and Janus Films have acquired the North American rights to “Flow” following its successful debut at Cannes. They are planning a theatrical release later this year, which is sure to attract a wide audience eager to experience this unique film.
At the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, “Flow” was a standout, winning the Audience Award, the Jury Award, the special prize for original music, and the Gan Foundation Award for Distribution. The film’s journey doesn’t stop there; it is also set to screen at the Toronto Film Festival next month, further solidifying its reputation as a must-see animated feature.
A tale of survival and friendship
“Flow” tells the story of a courageous cat whose home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog, the cat navigates a boat in search of dry land. This unlikely group must rely on trust, courage, and wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet. The film’s narrative is a poignant exploration of resilience and camaraderie in the face of overwhelming odds.
For a glimpse into this captivating story, you can watch the trailer for Flow.
Behind the scenes: The creative minds
The film was co-written by Gints Zilbalodis and Matiss Kaza, with a score composed by Zilbalodis and Rihards Zalupe. The production team includes Zilbalodis and Kaza, alongside Ron Dyens and Gregory Zalcman. The international sales agent for the film is Charades.
Zilbalodis is no stranger to success; his previous film, “Away”, won the Contrechamp Award for Best Film at Annecy in 2019. This track record of excellence sets high expectations for “Flow” as it enters the Oscar race.
The road to the Oscars
The selection of ”Flow” was made by the Latvian Selection Committee, a commission of film industry experts established by the National Film Center. The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, with the Oscars shortlists announced on December 17 and nominations revealed on January 17. The submission deadline for the International Feature Film category is October 2, and the eligibility period for the category spans from November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, the selection of “Flow” is particularly exciting. Animated films often bring a unique blend of visual artistry and storytelling that can transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. “Flow” promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that will captivate audiences worldwide.
The film’s success at various festivals is a testament to its quality and the universal appeal of its story. The themes of survival, friendship, and resilience are timeless and resonate deeply, especially in today’s world where many face their own metaphorical floods.
In-depth analysis and distinctive comments
“Flow” stands out not only for its narrative but also for its innovative animation style. Zilbalodis’ approach to animation is both minimalist and expressive, creating a world that feels both fantastical and grounded. The use of music, co-composed by Zilbalodis and Zalupe, adds another layer of depth to the film, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.
The collaboration between Zilbalodis and Kaza in writing the film ensures a well-rounded and compelling narrative. Their ability to create a story that is both simple and profound is a testament to their storytelling prowess.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can find additional details and multimedia resources on the Flow information page.
Final thoughts
“Flow” is a film that promises to leave a lasting impression on its viewers. Its journey from Cannes to the Oscars is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal appeal of animated films. As we await the Academy Awards, “Flow” stands as a beacon of hope and creativity, reminding us of the resilience and strength found in the most unexpected places.
