In this adaptation of the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, a quorum of cats gathers under a full moon to determine who will ascend to the next life.
Tom Hooper’s Cats (2019) adapts Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic stage musical into a surreal cinematic experience. Starring Judi Dench, James Corden, and Jason Derulo, the film follows a tribe of “Jellicle Cats” competing to ascend to the Heaviside Layer during a moonlit gala. Despite its star power and bold visuals, Cats divided audiences with its uncanny CGI and uneven tone.
Visuals & Design: A Double Edged Sword
The film’s CGI blends human actors with digital fur and cat like features, creating unsettling “humanoid cats.” While imaginative, the effects often distract. Scenes like Taylor Swift’s Bombalurina slinking through a glittering alley showcase creativity, but others (like Rebel Wilson’s mouse eating gag) border on grotesque. The sets, scaled to make cats seem small, add whimsy but clash with the eerie character designs.
Performances: Hits and Misses
Judi Dench anchors the film as Old Deuteronomy, radiating gravitas despite her bizarre feline makeup. Jason Derulo injects energy as Rum Tum Tugger, though his hip thrusting antics feel jarring. James Corden’s Bustopher Jones leans too heavily on slapstick, undermining the story’s mystical stakes. Francesca Hayward, a professional ballerina, shines as Victoria with graceful dance sequences.
Music & Pacing: Faithful but Flawed
Webber’s beloved songs (Memory, Mr. Mistoffelees) receive lush orchestration, and Jennifer Hudson’s raw rendition of Memory is a highlight. However, the thin plot a series of audition like performances struggles to fill its 110 minutes runtime. Pacing lags, and Hooper’s decision to blend practical sets with green screen backdrops creates visual chaos.
Why It’s Divisive
Cats aims for magical realism but often veers into nightmare fuel. The mix of child friendly whimsy and body horror (cats with human hands, twitching tails) baffles viewers. Yet, its audacity earns curiosity points. The film won 11 awards for technical achievements (costumes, VFX), but its 8 nominations for “Worst Picture” at the Razzie Awards tell another story.
Final Verdict
Cats (2019) is a fascinating misfire. Die hard musical fans may appreciate its loyalty to the stage show, while others will mock its oddities. Approach with caution and maybe a sense of humor.