Cats (2019 movie) facts for kids

Cats is a 2019 musical fantasy movie. It is based on the famous stage musical of the same name. This musical was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The movie was directed by Tom Hooper. He also helped write the screenplay with Lee Hall.

The film features many well-known actors and singers. Some of them include James Corden, Judi Dench, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, and Francesca Hayward. Cats was released in theaters on December 20, 2019. It was shown in the United Kingdom and the United States. The movie received many different opinions from people who watched it.

What is the Story of Cats?

The movie Cats tells the story of a special night. A group of cats called the Jellicles gather for their annual Jellicle Ball. During this event, their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, chooses one cat. This chosen cat will go to the Heaviside Layer. This is a special place where they can be reborn into a new life.

Who are the Jellicle Cats?

The Jellicle cats are a diverse group. Each cat has a unique personality. They all sing and dance to show their special qualities. Some cats are mischievous, while others are elegant. There are also some who are mysterious or very old.

Famous Jellicle Characters

• Victoria: She is a young, white cat. Victoria is new to the Jellicle tribe. She helps the audience learn about the other cats.
• Old Deuteronomy: This is the wise and respected leader of the Jellicle cats. She makes the important decision about who goes to the Heaviside Layer.
• Grizabella: She is an old, lonely glamour cat. Grizabella sings the famous song "Memory." She longs to be accepted by the other cats.
• Rum Tum Tugger: He is a playful and rebellious cat. Rum Tum Tugger loves attention and does things his own way.
• Macavity: This cat is a master criminal. He causes trouble for the Jellicle tribe. Macavity tries to stop the Jellicle Ball.

How Did Cats Become a Movie?

The Cats movie is based on a very popular stage musical. This musical first opened in London in 1981. It became one of the longest-running shows in history. The musical itself was inspired by a book of poems.

The Original Book of Poems

The poems are called Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats. They were written by a famous poet named T. S. Eliot. He wrote these fun poems about different types of cats. Andrew Lloyd Webber read these poems and thought they would make a great musical.

From Stage to Screen

The stage musical is known for its amazing costumes and dancing. The movie tried to bring this magic to the big screen. Filmmakers used special effects to make the actors look like cats. They also created a world that felt like a cat's perspective.

Who Starred in the Movie?

The movie brought together many talented people. Some actors were known for their singing. Others were famous for their acting in plays and movies.

Notable Cast Members

• Jennifer Hudson played Grizabella. She is a powerful singer. Many people loved her performance of "Memory."
• Ian McKellen played Gus the Theatre Cat. He is a very experienced actor.
• Taylor Swift played Bombalurina. She is a global music superstar.
• Francesca Hayward played Victoria. She is a real-life ballet dancer. This was her first big movie role.

The Movie's Release and Reception

Cats was released just before the holidays in 2019. It was a movie that got a lot of people talking. Many critics shared their thoughts on the film. Some found it to be a unique and interesting experience. Others had different opinions about the special effects and story. It was a movie that definitely sparked a lot of discussion among audiences.