Movie Overview
Cats (2019) brings the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the big screen under the direction of Tom Hooper. Set against a whimsical backdrop, the story introduces viewers to the Jellicles, a special tribe of cats who convene once a year for the Jellicle Ball. During this gathering, their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, must choose one cat to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be granted a new life. The narrative weaves through various musical numbers, each introducing a different feline character with their own song and distinct personality, from the magical Mr. Mistoffelees to the glamorous Grizabella.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, including James Corden, Judi Dench, and Jason Derulo, who portray these iconic characters using innovative CGI technology. Tom Hooper, known for his work on other major musical adaptations, attempts to translate the stage experience into a cinematic spectacle. However, the production garnered significant attention for its unique visual effects and interpretation of the anthropomorphic characters. Despite the ambitious production design and the inclusion of original songs from the stage show, the movie presents a distinct take on the source material that sparked conversation among audiences and critics alike.
Critically, Cats received a mixed to negative reception, holding a low rating on IMDb and a 19% score on Rotten Tomatoes. While it secured several awards and nominations, largely in technical categories, the film was often criticized for its visual choices and narrative pacing. Nevertheless, it remains a curiosity for fans of the musical genre. If you are looking to watch online and are interested in ambitious adaptations or are a fan of the original Broadway show, you might find this Netflix title worth watching simply for its sheer uniqueness.
