FlowDecember 6–11
There are sculptures and habitations that bespeak of human presence—somewhere—in the world of Flow, but there are no humans seen in this utterly beguiling animated feature. Instead, the natural environment dominates the screen in gorgeously rendered hues and textures, becoming a character itself in this thrilling adventure story of survival and camaraderie in the animal kingdom.
Our hero is a tiny grey cat whose big eyes and innocent curiosity immediately charm us. But this is no domesticated pet, and the landscape is fraught with dangers that would make Odysseus think twice before setting out on his odyssey. Narrowly evading a pack of wild dogs and a stampede of deer, our cat must contend with a flood that forces it to join a sailboat of other creatures—a sleepy capybara, a lemur jealously guarding its horde of treasures, a lovable dopey Labrador, and a watchful bird who might be friend or foe.
Director Gints Zilbalodis doesn’t anthropomorphize the animals—there’s no human dialogue, so rest assured, no celebrities doing wacky voices—and much of the film’s charm is that Flow just lets animals be animals (without jeopardizing real animals by doing live-action). The meticulously observed movements, sounds, quirks, and behaviors of real animals show a love for the non-human world that makes Flow truly endearing. And when the refugees of this miniature Noah’s Ark develop trust, loyalty, and compassion for each other, the lesson for us humans couldn’t be more powerful.
The action scenes are suspenseful, the characters indelible, and throughout this lean, fast-moving story, we don’t miss humans at all. Instead, we’re filled with a deep respect for the resilience and adaptability of Nature—and an adorable, wide-eyed little cat is precisely the superhero we need today.
(Rated PG for mature themes and animal peril.)Description and Narration: David Cooper
Sponsored by Wedel Financial
For tickets and showtime information, click here.
The Art of Holiday Cheer: Christmas at the Cinema
December 12 | 6 p.m. | $60 per ticket
Celebrate the season with a festive evening at the Art Center Cinema! Join us on December 12 at 6 p.m. for a special screening of Christmas Vacation. Enjoy freshly baked cookies, warm hot chocolate (regular and alcoholic), and a photo opp in front of Uncle Eddie’s Camper. This heartwarming experience is perfect for groups looking to embrace the holiday spirit in a fun and relaxed setting.
For tickets and showtime information, click here.