Introduction
Witnessing the stunning visuals of Gints Zilbalodis’ remarkable Latvian animated film Flow evoked a sense of familiarity as the scenes unfolded. A flashback to the opening sequences of China’s captivating 2019 animated fantasy The Legend of Hei seemed inevitable. Both films showcased a little black cat in a vibrant forest environment, hinting at impending disaster and evoking a blend of cartoonish charm and genuine peril.
Exploring the World of Hei
The Legend of Hei introduces viewers to Hei, the black cat, in a tranquil forest setting, setting the stage for a rapid escalation of events that demand undivided attention. The narrative unfolds swiftly, immersing audiences in an epic adventure featuring supernatural battles and a poignant reflection on environmental concerns, akin to the heartfelt tone of Flow.
The Journey of Hei
Despite its seemingly simplistic visuals, The Legend of Hei mirrors Flow by juxtaposing a minimalist character design against rich, sprawling backgrounds. This stark contrast enhances the depth and complexity of the protagonist’s journey.
Unveiling Hei’s Origin Story
The Legend of Hei carries a convoluted history, originating from a Chinese web series and expanding into comics and a mobile game. However, the movie stands alone admirably, offering a prequel that delves into Hei’s enigmatic background without relying on prior knowledge.
Enter the World of Spirits
Hei’s innate nature as a youthful cat spirit, displaced by human interference in his habitat, sets the stage for a riveting narrative. As he navigates between fights and flight, viewers witness his prideful yet vulnerable character grapple with the complexities of a supernatural conflict.
Themes and Resonances
The Legend of Hei echoes themes of environmental discord and spiritual unrest reminiscent of acclaimed works like Pom Poko. The film’s unpredictable narrative and moral ambiguity portray a world teetering on the brink of imbalance, akin to the clash of great powers in urban settings.
A Cinematic Conversation
While The Legend of Hei transitions into high-octane action sequences, it diverges from Flow in its verbose character interactions and ideological conflicts. Yet, the shared essence of a disrupted world and a resilient cat facing overwhelming odds unites both films in a heartfelt exploration of unlikely alliances and profound emotional moments.
Availability
Flow is currently in limited release in select cities, with a wider release scheduled for Dec. 6. Meanwhile, The Legend of Hei is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, Tubi, and Plex, in addition to digital rental or purchase options on various online platforms.