Cats (2019)
Release Date:
2019
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 50m
Synopsis:
Cats follows a group of Jellicle cats who gather for the annual Jellicle Ball, where one cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn. The story centers around Victoria, a new cat in town, as she meets various Jellicle cats, each with their own unique personality and story. Among them are the mischievous Rum Tum Tugger, the magical Mr. Mistoffelees, and the wise Old Deuteronomy, who will make the final decision. As the night unfolds, the cats perform and share their tales, hoping to be selected for a new life. Meanwhile, the villainous Macavity lurks, causing trouble and trying to manipulate the outcome. The film is a musical journey through the whimsical world of the Jellicle cats, filled with dance and song.
"Cats," released in 2019, is a musical fantasy film that falls under the genre of family and musical. It is rated PG, making it a movie for kids. The film is known for its unique visual style and musical numbers, but it has received mixed reviews from parents and critics alike. While some appreciate its artistic ambition and musical elements, others find the execution lacking, leading to a divided opinion on its suitability for children.
Why Kids Should Watch Cats
The movie offers a vibrant and imaginative experience that can captivate young audiences.
- Promotes themes of acceptance and belonging.
- The character of Victoria showcases kindness and curiosity.
- Colorful and elaborate dance sequences are visually appealing to kids.
- Encourages appreciation for music and performance arts.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Cats
Some parents express concerns about the film's confusing plot and unsettling visuals.
- The storyline can be difficult for younger children to follow.
- Some scenes may be perceived as eerie or strange due to the CGI effects.
- The film's pacing and tone might not hold the attention of all kids.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its confusing plot and unusual visuals.
What Parents Should Know About Cats
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Victoria's kindness and willingness to help others are positive behaviors children can emulate. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film's abstract narrative and some intense musical numbers may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who act selfishly or unkindly often face consequences, reinforcing moral lessons. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of community and working together through its ensemble cast. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about finding one's place and being accepted for who you are, delivered through the characters' journeys. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
"Cats" offers a visually unique experience with strong musical elements that can be engaging for children who enjoy music and dance. However, its abstract plot and unusual visuals may not appeal to all kids, and some parental guidance might be necessary to help them understand the story. Parents looking for a more straightforward family musical might consider alternatives like "The Lion King" or "Frozen" for a more universally appreciated experience.
Official Cats Trailer
"Cats," released in 2019, is a musical fantasy film that falls under the genre of family and musical. It is rated PG, making it a movie for kids. The film is known for its unique visual style and musical numbers, but it has received mixed reviews from parents and critics alike. While some appreciate its artistic ambition and musical elements, others find the execution lacking, leading to a divided opinion on its suitability for children.
Why Kids Should Watch Cats
The movie offers a vibrant and imaginative experience that can captivate young audiences.
- Promotes themes of acceptance and belonging.
- The character of Victoria showcases kindness and curiosity.
- Colorful and elaborate dance sequences are visually appealing to kids.
- Encourages appreciation for music and performance arts.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Cats
Some parents express concerns about the film's confusing plot and unsettling visuals.
- The storyline can be difficult for younger children to follow.
- Some scenes may be perceived as eerie or strange due to the CGI effects.
- The film's pacing and tone might not hold the attention of all kids.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its confusing plot and unusual visuals.
What Parents Should Know About Cats
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Victoria's kindness and willingness to help others are positive behaviors children can emulate. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film's abstract narrative and some intense musical numbers may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who act selfishly or unkindly often face consequences, reinforcing moral lessons. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of community and working together through its ensemble cast. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about finding one's place and being accepted for who you are, delivered through the characters' journeys. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
"Cats" offers a visually unique experience with strong musical elements that can be engaging for children who enjoy music and dance. However, its abstract plot and unusual visuals may not appeal to all kids, and some parental guidance might be necessary to help them understand the story. Parents looking for a more straightforward family musical might consider alternatives like "The Lion King" or "Frozen" for a more universally appreciated experience.
Official Cats Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Cats
Cats's most common core values include Acceptance, Being unique, and Self-expression. Throughout the movie, kids learn about acceptance as the Jellicle cats embrace each other's differences, showing that everyone has a place in their Community. The value of being unique is highlighted as each cat showcases their distinct personality and talents, teaching children that it's okay to stand out and be different.
Self-expression is celebrated through the cats' vibrant performances and songs, encouraging kids to express themselves freely and confidently. For example, one cat's magical abilities are initially doubted, but through self-expression and perseverance, they prove their worth, illustrating the importance of believing in oneself.
Other Core Values Explored: Celebrating differences | Creativity | Friendship | Inclusion | Inclusivity | Loyalty | Valuing diversity
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Cats
Accepting Your Identity: In the movie Cats, children learn the importance of accepting who they are through the character of Victoria. As she navigates her new surroundings, she discovers her own strengths and learns to embrace her identity, showing kids that being true to oneself is essential.
Embracing Differences: The diverse group of Jellicle cats teaches kids to appreciate and embrace differences. Each cat has its own unique personality and talents, and they come together to support one another, demonstrating that diversity is something to be celebrated.
Celebrating Uniqueness: The film highlights the value of celebrating what makes each individual special. Characters like Mr. Mistoffelees and Rum Tum Tugger showcase their unique talents and quirks, encouraging children to take pride in what makes them different.
Finding Courage: Throughout the story, characters face challenges that require bravery. Kids see how the cats find the courage to stand up for themselves and each other, teaching them that being brave is an important part of overcoming obstacles.
Building Friendships: The relationships between the Jellicle cats illustrate the importance of building strong friendships. As they work together and support one another, children learn that true friends are there for each other, no matter what.
Other Lessons Learned: Believing in Yourself | Letting Talents Shine | Supporting Your Friends | Valuing Inner Beauty
Why Kids Love Cats
Cats is a whimsical journey into a world where talking animals and bright, colorful settings captivate young imaginations. The movie is filled with lively dance scenes and characters who sing catchy songs, making it a musical extravaganza that kids will find irresistible. Each cat has its own unique flair, from the mischievous antics of Rum Tum Tugger to the magical tricks of Mr. Mistoffelees, adding layers of fun and excitement. The musical showdowns are thrilling, with each performance more dazzling than the last.
Kids will enjoy the awkward yet endearing situations the cats find themselves in, as well as the heartwarming moments of making new friends. The film celebrates being unique and standing out, with each character proudly showcasing their individuality. With its mix of humor, music, and dance, Cats offers a vibrant and entertaining experience that keeps kids engaged and eager to see what happens next.