In what may be the biggest upset of the 2025 Golden Globes, the Latvian indie film Flow pulled off a shocking victory, beating Disney heavyweights Inside Out 2 and Moana 2 to win the coveted Best Animated Film award.
The win was as surprising as it was monumental. Disney’s two sequels were both global box office juggernauts in 2024, with Inside Out 2 raking in an astonishing $1.7 billion worldwide and Moana 2 collecting an impressive $960 million. Yet, neither could overcome the heartfelt and visually stunning tale of Flow, whose modest U.S. box office earnings of $6.8 million pale in comparison to its competitors.
What Is Flow About?
Directed by Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis, who co-wrote the screenplay with Matiss Kaza, Flow is a silent animated film that tells the poignant story of Cat, a solitary black feline whose home is destroyed by a devastating flood.
Finding refuge on a boat alongside other animals, Cat embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery. The film’s themes of unity, teamwork, and triumph over adversity struck a chord with the 300-plus members of the Golden Globes voting panel, propelling it to a surprise victory over industry giants.
The Competition: Disney and Beyond
The odds were stacked against Flow heading into the ceremony. Its competition included not just Disney’s two box office powerhouses but also:
- Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (Netflix), a claymation hit boasting a perfect 100% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Memoir of a Snail, another claymation gem with an impressive 94% RT score.
- The Wild Robot (Universal Pictures), praised for its painterly animation style and holding a 97% RT score.
Despite these formidable rivals, Flow emerged victorious, solidifying its place in animation history.
Why Was Flow’s Victory So Surprising?
The triumph of Flow over its well-funded competitors highlights the power of storytelling and artistic vision over budget. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers:
- Inside Out 2: Developed with a staggering $200 million budget.
- Moana 2: Created with a $150 million production cost.
- The Wild Robot: Rendered with a $78 million budget.
- Flow: Produced on a shoestring budget of just $4 million using Blender, a free and open-source 3D animation software.
The fact that Flow, a film rendered in a low-cost program and devoid of dialogue, could stand toe-to-toe with the biggest names in animation underscores its ingenuity and emotional resonance.
A Turning Point for Independent Animation
Flow’s Golden Globes victory marks a milestone for independent animated filmmaking. The win not only elevates Latvian cinema to global recognition but also sends a powerful message: creative storytelling can triumph over financial might.
The film’s success has already sparked conversations about its potential to sweep other major awards, including the BAFTAs and the Oscars.
Where to Watch Flow
Missed Flow in theaters? You’re in luck! The award-winning film will be available for digital purchase or rental starting January 7, 2025, on platforms like Amazon and Apple TV (U.S. only).
For international viewers, including those in the UK and Australia, accessing Flow may require the use of a VPN to unlock U.S.-based streaming services.
Final Thoughts
The stunning victory of Flow at the 2025 Golden Globes is a reminder of the magic that happens when heart, artistry, and innovation come together. Beating blockbuster giants like Inside Out 2 and Moana 2, Flow has redefined what’s possible for independent animation.
Are you excited to watch Flow? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you think it can continue its winning streak at the Oscars,
