Big cats on the big screen bear animated gifts this season with something for everyone. In certain ways, “Flow” and “Mufasa” make a solid double feature over school vacation.
First, Gints Zilbalodis’s meditative “Flow” is shortlisted for best international feature film by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (i.e., the Oscars). No surprise, given how exquisite and poignant this remarkable film is. Likewise, “Flow” is nominated for a Golden Globe Award in the best animated motion picture category.
Pro tip #1: You must see this on the biggest screen possible, which you will not regret.
Pro tip #2: You must sit through all the closing credits—take my word for it.
Second, Academy Award-winning screenwriter Barry Jenkins’ “Mufasa: The Lion King” made the Oscars cut for original song and visual effects. Indeed, the movie relies so heavily on major developments in artificial intelligence and affective computing, you will know it as soon as you see it.
At the same time, this movie takes place on an imaginary African savannah known as the Pride Lands. But watching the whole thing is a two-hour journey into the “uncanny valley.”
Coincidentally, the Disney animators and Latvian filmmakers both incorporate similar imagery to advance their respective storylines. I was so struck by this last week when I saw “Mufasa.”
Simply put, both movies involve massive flooding as key plot points. And both Cat and Mufasa must adapt to such devastation for survival. The alternative is to get swept away.
Truth be told, I felt swept away by both of these movies. However, “Flow” spoke more deeply to me. This is a little ironic because “Flow” contains no spoken words at all. Sound but no dialogue. Maybe this is why I liked it so much.
But I just am not a franchise fan, either. Still, I appreciate the unique legacy of “The Lion King.” Jenkins does too; he honors James Earl Jones’ memory from the outset.
Ultimately, the big cats on the big screen at your local theater suggest things humans must reconsider. Our relationship with Mother Nature, for starters. And our connection with other people, obviously.
Until next year, get up, get dressed, and go see a double feature!
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is playing at local theaters. “Flow” is showing at The Moviehouse in Millerton, N.Y.
