Photo credit: movieweb.com
Final Days for the Widely Criticized Adaptation of *Cats* on Netflix
The time has come for fans of controversial cinema to prepare for the departure of a film that has been labeled one of the worst in history. Starting in January, the infamous adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, *Cats*, will no longer be available on Netflix. This provides a last chance for those who wish to revisit the film, whether out of curiosity or to relive the peculiar experience that it offers.
Released in 2019, *Cats* stands in stark contrast to the achievements of 2024’s musicals, which have enjoyed a resurgence, notably with the box office success of *Wicked – Part One*. The 2019 film, however, faced widespread scorn from critics and audiences alike. There may still be viewers who appreciate the unique visual style of *Cats,* or perhaps individuals who have yet to see it for themselves and are intrigued by its reputation.
The film draws its inspiration from the 1981 musical of the same name, which in turn is based on T.S. Eliot’s 1939 poetry collection *Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats*. Directed by Tom Hooper, who co-wrote the screenplay with Lee Hall, the narrative revolves around a group of cats known as the Jellicles, who embark on a yearly ceremony to determine which of them will ascend to the coveted Heavenside Layer and be reborn into a new Jellicle life. Notable performers in the cast include Judi Dench, James Corden, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Taylor Swift, and Rebel Wilson.
Critical Reception and Backlash
Expectations were high for *Cats*, given Tom Hooper’s success with the celebrated adaptation of *Les Misérables*, which garnered critical acclaim and significant box office returns. Unfortunately, *Cats* was met with an entirely different fate, quickly becoming recognized as both a critical and financial disaster. The film carries a meager 19% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, accompanied by a consensus that asserts, “Despite its fur-midable cast, this *Cats* adaptation is a clawful mistake that will leave most viewers begging to be put out of their mew-sery.”
The negative feedback did not go unnoticed, as *Cats* received multiple Razzie nominations, ultimately being dubbed the Worst Picture of the Year. Even Andrew Lloyd Webber expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the film’s creative decisions led to significant missteps. He stated, “The problem with the film was that Tom Hooper decided that he didn’t want anybody involved in it who was in the original show.”
Despite its prime December release—a period when films can benefit from the holiday audience surge—*Cats* struggled at the box office, earning only $27.2 million in the U.S. and $74.6 million globally against a hefty production budget of $95 million. Reports indicate that Universal Pictures incurred a loss of approximately $113.6 million. The project may have benefited from heeding Lloyd Webber’s advice, as he reportedly warned Universal, “You’ve got a car crash on your hands unless you get a grip on this thing.”
For those still wanting to watch or dissect *Cats*, the film will remain accessible on Netflix until January. Take this opportunity to either join the ranks of armchair critics or simply indulge in this unique cinematic experience before it disappears from the platform.
Release Date: December 20, 2019
Runtime: 110 minutes
Cast: Rebel Wilson, Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Fairchild, Idris Elba, Taylor Swift, Laurie Davidson, Zizi Strallen, Ray Winstone, Ian McKellen, Jason Derulo, Judi Dench, James Corden, Mette Towley.
Source
movieweb.com