My two spoiled cats were sitting on our laps for TV time per usual. We booted up “Flow,” a gorgeously animated, Academy Award-winning animal adventure. The movie has no dialogue, other than the animals “talking” to one another. In its fantastical, wild environment, the protagonist cat (who can swim) speaks often and in a realistic kitty voice. The movie’s beginning includes aggressive dogs barking furiously while chasing the cat, which prompted my two to perk up and start staring at the screen. As the protagonist kitty took center stage, each of mine discreetly stepped off our laps for a private TV-watching perch. Transfixed, they seemed to be identifying with their inner wild cat. My companion and I found ourselves watching as their fellow companions, trying to see their point of view on the scary adventures. They didn’t move. I’ve had cats my whole life but never watched a movie with one, sitting side by side.
— Julia Steiny
First published in Eco RI News, June 6, 2025
Love it! More animal and garden stories and photos please!