The new film adaptation of the musical “Cats” is facing a wave of negative reviews from critics. As someone who grew up watching the Broadway version on VHS nearly every weekend, it pains me to report that the reception for this movie has been dismal. You’d think it would be a hit—Oscar-winning director Tom Hooper is at the helm, Taylor Swift contributed an original song, and powerhouse Jennifer Hudson lends her voice. Unfortunately, critics are not holding back their disdain. As one reviewer from the Boston Globe lamented, “My eyes are burning. Oh god, my eyes.”
With the embargo now lifted, Reddit users have compiled a list of the harshest critiques. From The Hollywood Reporter labeling it “Cat-astrophic” to The Playlist dramatically declaring that “theater is dead,” the feedback is overwhelmingly negative.
Critics’ Concerns
Critics have taken issue with various aspects of the film, including its bizarre production choices and the uncomfortable sexualization of the feline characters. Yes, you read that right. Sexy cats. shudders.
“If you were horrified by the sight of esteemed British actors with their faces superimposed on furry bodies or even the unsettling image of cats with human breasts, you’ll likely be shielding your eyes and peeking through your fingers in a state of shock during the film,” noted The Hollywood Reporter.
One Twitter user and awards season columnist, Kyle Buchanan, likened the experience to stumbling onto an “unholy and heretofore unknown genre of porn,” highlighting the awkwardness of the cats indulging in milk as if it were a form of adult entertainment.
Collider described the film as having a vibe that feels “two seconds away from turning into a furry orgy in a dumpster.” That’s a lot to digest for a nearly two-hour runtime. The Wrap echoed this sentiment, stating that the viewing experience is “painful enough to make your heart race for everyone involved.”
A Glimmer of Positivity
Despite the barrage of negativity, there was a faint glimmer of positivity in The Wrap‘s review. Robert Abele mentioned that the film manages to enchant at moments, particularly due to the performances of Jennifer Hudson as Grizabella, Judi Dench as Old Deuteronomy, and Ian McKellen as the Theater Cat.
So, if you were planning a family outing to see “Cats” this Christmas, you might want to reconsider.
Further Reading
For more insights into the fascinating world of home insemination, check out this other blog post. For those looking for expert advice on pregnancy, this resource is a fantastic place to start. And if mindfulness is your focus, this site has plenty of helpful tips.
In summary, the film “Cats” has been met with a flurry of harsh reviews, critiquing its unsettling imagery and bizarre choices. While a few performances shine, overall, it seems this movie adaptation has missed the mark entirely.