The award-winning film Flow uses no dialogue and relies solely on visuals and natural animal sounds. Its unique style has caught the attention of viewers and their pets.

Many pet owners report that their animals watch the screen intently as the heroic black cat leads a group of animals to safety, according to the New York Times.

Photo: Pexels

Tthe film Flow relies solely on natural animal sounds.  

A Unique Cinematic Experience

Flow was produced in Latvia using open-source software. Its minimal animation technique evokes emotion without words. As noted by Reuters, the film earned Latvia its first Oscar for Best Animated Feature. Its independent production highlights a focus on visual storytelling that appeals to both humans and their pets.

The film’s authentic score and use of real animal noises may explain why pets respond more to Flow than to other films. Matiss Kaza, one of the producers, told the New York Times that this sound design plays a key role in drawing in animal viewers.

Photo: Pexels

Flow was produced in Latvia with open-source software.  

Why Pets Love Flow

Flow centers on a black cat and other animals portrayed with minimal human influence. Videos shared on TikTok show cats and dogs watching the film with complete focus. One video by People captures a cat named Fishbone intently watching the screen. Owners describe these moments as both amusing and heartwarming.

The natural sounds and realistic movements in the film seem to trigger a primal response in pets. NPR explains that the film captures subtle animal behaviors, such as a cat’s yawn and tail flick, which may remind pets of their own instincts. This effect is unusual since pets rarely pay attention to screens.

Photo: Pexels

Flow challenges conventional animated storytelling. 

Artistic Vision Meets Animal Instinct

Director Gints Zilbalodis designed Flow as a sensory experience. The film’s reliance on genuine animal sounds speaks directly to the instincts of its non-human audience. NPR observes that close attention to animal behavior helps shape the film’s narrative, making it more engaging for pets.

BGR reports that the movie’s box office success—over 20 million dollars globally on a modest budget—reflects a shift in audience tastes. Its blend of realism and imaginative storytelling has sparked interest among both pet owners and animation fans.

The visual and auditory ambiance invites viewers to connect with the struggles of the animals. Clips of pets fixated on the screen, as noted by People, highlight how the film creates a calming and engaging experience for its animal audience.

Pets and the Power of Silent Storytelling

Flow employs silent storytelling to create an atmosphere that is both eerie and inviting. Reuters credits this approach for the film's unique place in history. In contrast to animated features that rely on dialogue and special effects, Flow encourages viewers to simply observe and feel.

Pet owners have observed that the calm pacing of the film soothes their animals. For instance, a golden retriever was seen sitting quietly throughout the screening, alert to the shifting sounds and movements on screen, as reported by the New York Times.

The film also challenges conventional views of animal behavior by portraying them as beings with distinct instincts and stories. This perspective resonates with pet owners who feel a deeper connection with their companions. The shared experience of watching Flow provides a new way to bond over simple, yet powerful storytelling.

In a media landscape filled with noise, Flow demonstrates that a silent, well-crafted narrative can capture attention and foster a sense of calm. Both humans and pets find a moment of quiet reflection in the film, proving that shared experiences can bridge the gap between different species.