Latvian Animation “God’s Dog” Shocks and Thrills at Tribeca

Surreal Horror Film Earns Rave Reviews for Bold Visuals and Themes

A provocative animated film from Latvia, “The Dog of God,” is generating significant buzz after a successful run at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival. The film, lauded for its unique rotoscoping style and challenging subject matter, has captivated audiences and critics alike.

Critical Acclaim and Audience Reaction

Artist Harry Grundmanis expressed surprise at the audience’s recognition of the film’s subtle visual references, noting that American viewers seemed particularly attuned to its influences from 1980s and 90s underground animation. Sergei Timonin reported that the screenings at Tribeca were marked by a dynamic audience response, with laughter, shock, and ultimately, enthusiastic applause.

The Tribeca Film Festival, founded in 2002 in the wake of the September 11th attacks, has become a major platform for independent and experimental cinema. Its “Escape” program specifically showcases daring works spanning psychological thrillers to fantastical narratives.

One of the most dear, different and unique animation films I’ve ever seen. 🤯

— Aayush Sharma (@aayushsharma88) June 12, 2025

“The Rotoscopy Horror movie” Dog of God “is a hypnotic mix – grotesque and elegant, chaotic and depressing.”

—Jasper Finch, The Rolling Tape

The film underwent three screenings during the festival, drawing attention for its unflinching exploration of faith, sexuality, and taboo subjects. According to a 2024 report by the Motion Picture Association, adult animation revenue in North America reached $1.2 billion, demonstrating a growing appetite for mature animated content. MPA Report

Provocative Content and Unique Style

Critics have highlighted the film’s daring visual style and explicit content. The Hollywood News described “The Dog of God” as “one of the most sexually charged animation films in history,” anticipating a level of graphic imagery rarely seen in the medium. Other reviewers praised the film’s distinctive animation, drawing comparisons to comic book aesthetics.

The parrot with eggs, a lot of erections and a cruel, terrible cat … This is the crazy answer of Latvia to the animation world. Mainly, amusing and totally free cinema. 😂

— @gooliegoolie (@gooliegoolie) June 12, 2025

@jupiterstargirl on Letterboxd lauded the film’s “outstanding” animation style, emphasizing its strong comic book influences and overall uniqueness. @gooliegoolie, also on Letterboxd, playfully described the film as a “crazy answer of Latvia to the animation world,” praising its humor and unrestrained creativity.

Produced by Raitis Abele and Kristel Pudane of “Tritone Studio” in Latvia, alongside Giovanni Labadessa of “Lumiere Lab” in the US, the film received support from the National Film Center of Latvia (ERDF/React-Eu project “Growth of Latvian Film Industry”).

A Latvian premiere is scheduled for October 16, 2025, as part of the Riga International Film Festival, offering local audiences their first opportunity to experience this boundary-pushing animated work.