Flow – Movie Reviews by Ry!

Flow – A Cat’s Journey of Instincts and Heart

In the eyes of a storyteller, what is it that brings about that spark that pushes someone towards true inspiration?  From a simple look out the window to an experience of a long drive, the journey of one’s thoughts can transform into something magical, especially in film.  Visual storytelling becomes a manner of hearing and seeing, but it is in that gifted individual to take you on a true escape.  In this review, I look at the latest animated film.  From a simple concept, we head on a tale that speaks truth through raw visual appeal.  With a unique directive, Flow is an endearing tale that shows how an adventure can be … one of a kind. 

In a tale of survival, one cat will learn that even in the hardest time … there is more to life with other companions.  From concept to realization, telling a tale is a monumental task for any filmmaker.  When it comes to animation, creativity has no bounds, especially in this film.  In the beginning, we come into this world through the drop-in method, following a black cat in a world that is only populated by animals.  Through a series of visualized sequences, the black cat comes to face a dire situation: surviving a flood that destroys his home.  After we head through another series of visualized moments, we embark on a journey with this cat, who is now trying to find ways to survive the flood with different creatures.  As we head into the second act, we follow from the perspective of the black cat, witnessing interactions through visual quips, physical encounters and the grainy animation.  With no dialogue, we have a tale that is built through stylistic choices that drive imaginative appeal through a ‘show not tell’ like directive.  This moves the journey above any traditional means of storytelling by building a visual dynamism through an emotional value of adventure.  As this happens, you see the personality of each character, a noticing of the ‘what’ and ‘why’ within layered emotions of joy, happiness, sorrow and fear.  This creative vision pushes forward an adventure that is much more than just an escape, it is an honest reflection of the heart found in genuine storytelling. 

As the cat comes across new situations (and new creatures), it becomes an endearing thread that is human to the core.  The value of trust, survival and hope all bleed through the visual quips of character interactions, one that provides true personality (when no dialogue is at hand).  As the cat comes to a point of conflict, it becomes a learning experience that elevates within a spiritual sense of the moment.  As the world’s dilemma hits a certain peak, it leads into a third act of hearty moments that build up to a full circle climax and epilogue.  Flow is an animated feature that elevates creative storytelling.  If you are a fan of animated tales or animals, this is one for you.  It is available on Max, but it would be fun to have seen this on the big screen.

Full Score – 4 out of 5 (Full Price)