After months of anticipation I watched Flee over the weekend- it’s moving, tender and ultimately a story of surviving brutality. Unfortunately, Amin’s story is similar to that of many who’s homes are ripped apart by war, with it’s civilians left to struggle to find refuge. What makes this story different is the way it’s told- Yes it’s a documentary but Amin is telling his story to his high school friend, even more significant is that he has never told anyone his story before, not even his fiancé.
We as the audience are invited to sit in on the two friend’s conversations which instantly makes for a more personal connection .
Then of course is the animation-
Used to provide anonymity to Amin it is a practical solution- but it is also refreshing to see this type of story told through animation in a style that is full of colour and clean, stylised drawings.
It was the flashback sequences that I found most affecting. Desaturated of colour, we see faceless crowds run amongst the grey charcoal backgrounds, blurry and vague like the memories Amin is vocalising for the first time.
Deservedly nominated for an Oscar and BAFTA, the film showcases animated documentary in an accessible form that will push audiences to recognise the medium’s credibility to tell difficult stories.