Cats (2019)
Synopsis:
A tribe of cats known as the Jellicles gathers for their annual celebration, where they must make a momentous decision: which cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and return to a new Jellicle life. Throughout this magical night, various cats present themselves and share their stories, including the glamorous Grizabella, the mischievous Rum Tum Tugger, the villainous Macavity, and the theatrical Gus. Newcomer Victoria witnesses these performances as the Jellicles compete for the attention of Old Deuteronomy, their wise leader who will ultimately decide which cat deserves this extraordinary transformation. This fantasy musical brings together an ensemble of feline characters, each hoping to prove themselves worthy of rebirth while navigating the mysterious world of the Jellicles and their unique traditions.
Where To Watch: Cats
Parental Feedback
Cats presents a fantastical musical world centered on a tribe of felines competing for a chance at rebirth, blending elaborate song-and-dance numbers with whimsical character introductions. Parents should expect a visually stylized experience with a theatrical tone that leans heavily on musical performance and fantasy elements, though the pacing may feel uneven as various cats take turns presenting themselves. The emotional range spans from lighthearted comedy to more somber, reflective moments, particularly when exploring themes of memory, acceptance, and second chances.
Why Kids Should Watch Cats
Cats offers several elements that may appeal to young viewers and families seeking musical entertainment.
The production features an impressive ensemble cast including acclaimed performers like Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, Jennifer Hudson, and Taylor Swift, providing children exposure to talented artists delivering memorable musical performances. This star-studded lineup brings energy and vocal prowess to the various musical numbers throughout the story.
The fantasy premise of a magical tribe of cats and the mystical Heaviside Layer can spark imagination and wonder in younger audiences. The whimsical concept allows children to explore a creative world where animals have their own society, traditions, and dreams.
The musical format provides an opportunity for families to experience a Broadway-inspired adaptation together, introducing children to theatrical storytelling conventions. The song-and-dance sequences offer varied entertainment that may engage kids who respond well to music and movement.
Themes of acceptance, belonging, and redemption run throughout the narrative, offering potential conversation starters about compassion and giving others second chances. The story's focus on a community deciding who deserves a new life touches on ideas of worthiness and transformation.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Cats
Parents may want to consider several factors before deciding if Cats is appropriate for their children.
The highly stylized visual presentation, featuring human actors in digital fur and cat-like proportions, may be unsettling or confusing for some younger viewers. The uncanny appearance of the characters has been noted as potentially off-putting and might distract from or detract from the storytelling experience.
The narrative structure relies heavily on a series of character introductions rather than a traditional plot progression, which may test the patience of children expecting more conventional storytelling. Younger viewers accustomed to clear story arcs might find the episodic format difficult to follow or engage with meaningfully.
Some emotional content, particularly scenes involving the character Grizabella and themes of rejection and loneliness, could be intense for sensitive children. The more melancholic musical numbers may evoke feelings that require parental guidance to process appropriately.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Cats earns conditional approval for families with older children who appreciate musical theater and can handle unconventional visual storytelling, though parents should preview to assess fit for their individual child's sensitivities.
What Parents Should Know About Cats
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The story emphasizes community decision-making and ultimately celebrates compassion and second chances, though the competitive nature of the Jellicle choice may send mixed messages about worthiness. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, particularly scenes involving Grizabella's rejection by the tribe and her emotional journey toward acceptance, which explore themes of loneliness and redemption that may require parental context. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The antagonist Macavity faces consequences for his disruptive actions, though the resolution focuses more on the community's ultimate choice than on explicit punishment. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The Jellicle tribe functions as a community, and the resolution emphasizes forgiveness and inclusion, offering some modeling of acceptance and collective decision-making. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The primary message centers on redemption, acceptance, and the idea that everyone deserves a second chance, particularly those who have been marginalized or rejected. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parental reactions to Cats tend to be mixed, with many families finding the visual presentation challenging and the storytelling approach unconventional for younger viewers. Some parents appreciate the musical performances and the star-studded cast, noting that children familiar with theater may find more to enjoy than those expecting traditional narrative cinema. Concerns frequently center on the unsettling visual effects and whether the episodic structure holds children's attention effectively. Families who enjoyed the experience often had older children already interested in musical theater or the original stage production, while those with younger or more sensitive kids reported confusion or discomfort with the stylized character designs. Overall, parents suggest previewing before family viewing and considering each child's individual tolerance for unusual visual presentation and non-linear storytelling.
Official Cats Trailer
Why Kids Love Cats
The Jellicle cats burst into song and dance throughout the entire movie, with characters like Rum Tum Tugger showing off flashy moves and Victoria leaping gracefully across moonlit rooftops. Every cat gets a moment to perform their own musical number, turning the streets into a giant stage where tails swish and paws tap to catchy rhythms.
Kids watch a whole tribe of animal friends with wildly different personalities, from the fancy Bustopher Jones to the mysterious Macavity who appears and disappears in clouds of magic. Bombalurina makes a spectacular entrance with glittering effects, while Old Deuteronomy presides over the group with calm authority. Each cat looks completely unique with their own fur patterns and costumes.
The musical numbers pile on top of each other with nonstop energy, featuring songs that stick in your head long after the movie ends. Grizabella delivers a powerful performance that showcases her character's journey, while the ensemble creates elaborate dance formations that fill the screen with movement.
Every Jellicle cat stands out in their own way, celebrating what makes them different as they compete for the chance to ascend to the Heaviside Layer. The movie turns being unique into the whole point, with each character's special talents on full display through song and dance.