‘Truly epic’ post-apocalyptic movie could land historic Oscars nod after 100% Rotten Tomatoes score

A new Latvian animated feature, Flow, could be an unexpected frontrunner in this year’s Oscars race after impressing critics with its heartfelt plot set in a dystopian world.

The silent movie – from ‘visionary director’ Gints Zilbalodis – follows a diverse crew of animals – a cat, a capybara, some dogs to name a few – who must work together to survive after getting caught up in a cataclysmic flood.

The moving storyline and stirring animation has had nothing but rave reviews from critics so far who are already hailing it as the next animation classic.

‘It’s not just a supreme example of a movie kids will love that adults will too. With its wordlessness, this is a film that could play in any country of the world, its capacity to reach literally everyone limitless.

‘And yet it’s radical while being as accessible as any animated film could ever be,’ IndieWire wrote in their top-tier review.

Meanwhile, Hollywood Reporter praised the film’s ability to ‘shatter your heart then make it whole again’.

The movie has been praised as ‘something quite special’ (Picture: Dream Well Studio)

‘Told entirely without dialogue, this tale of a cat that evolves from self-preservation to solidarity with a motley crew of other species is something quite special,’ the critic added.

Film critic Orion’s Shoulder echoed: ‘Flow is truly epic, and while it only momentarily steps into the mystical, it is magical throughout.’

Elsewhere, Variety added that ‘animal-loving viewers will bond almost instantly with the cat and its motley companions.’

The 29-year-old filmmaker made his movie debut with also lauded animated movie Away in 2019 and has clearly only improved on his craft since then.

And now it is being submitted for the Oscars in what could be a historic move (Picture: Dream Well Studio)

Now, Latvia has entered Flow as their pick for best international feature film for the 97th Academy Awards. It also showcased at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.

In a radio interview during the festival, Gints opened up about the message behind the movie.

‘I have my own idea of what the film means, but it’s hard to explain in words since the film has no words. I’d say that it’s important to trust others but stay independent at the same time,’ he said at the time.

The country has previously submitted 15 different films for the category which have all been unsuccessful and never made it to the nomination stage, but that could all be about to change as Flow continues to rake in excellent feedback.

The film will first have to be shortlisted, which will be announced in December,and the final five nominees confirmed on 17 January.

Flow is also set to be released internationally and will arrive in UK cinemas on March 1, 2025.

But for those who simply can’t wait to watch it, the film will also be premiering at the London Film Festival in October so make sure you catch it on the big screen while you can.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.