In 2019, moviegoers were treated to a feline frenzy like never before with the release of “Cats,” the cinematic adaptation of the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. Directed by Tom Hooper, who had previously helmed “Les Misérables,” the film featured an ensemble cast of A-listers, making it one of the most highly anticipated releases of the year. However, what followed was a rollercoaster of reactions and reviews that turned “Cats” into a conversation piece for film enthusiasts around the world.
“Cats” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including James Corden, Judi Dench, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, and Francesca Hayward in her film debut. The movie draws its inspiration from the 1981 stage musical of the same name, which, in turn, is based on T.S. Eliot’s “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats.” The story revolves around the Jellicle cats, who gather annually for the Jellicle Ball, where one lucky cat is chosen to ascend to heaven and be reborn.
One of the standout elements of “Cats” is its memorable music, with “Memory,” sung by Grizabella the Glamour Cat, being a perennial favorite. The film’s soundtrack showcases the incredible vocal talents of its cast and pays homage to the enduring appeal of the original stage production.
The first trailer for “Cats” dropped on July 18th, 2019, and it quickly became a sensation, though not entirely for the reasons the filmmakers might have hoped. The use of CGI fur and the unique character designs sparked intense discussions and mixed reactions across social media. Some even took it upon themselves to turn the trailer into a horror movie by blending it with scenes from other films.
Despite the initial hype surrounding “Cats,” the film faced a barrage of negative reviews from critics. Many cited issues with direction, visual effects, screenplay, and editing, leading to some critics dubbing it one of the worst films of all time. However, it’s crucial to remember that opinions on movies can vary significantly among different individuals, and “Cats” has its share of devoted fans who appreciate its whimsical charm.
“Cats” remains a unique cinematic experience that left an indelible mark on film history, not just for its star-studded cast and memorable music but also for the fervent discussions it ignited. Whether you love it or find it unsettling, “Cats” is undeniably a film that will continue to be talked about for years to come.
For more information about “Cats,” you can visit the official website or check out the trailer.
Resources:
1.https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5697572/
2.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cats_%282019_film%29
4.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdpOfJp8kuM
5.https://www.movieinsider.com/m18025/cats
8.https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/trailers/1084479-the-cats-trailer-is-here