From cult classic to streaming farewell: The legacy of ‘Cats
From cult classic to streaming farewell: The legacy of ‘Cats . Netflix is shaking things up in the sandbox, gearing up to remove one of modern Hollywood’s quirkiest flops from its catalog.
By Megan Sauer
In just a few days, Netflix bids adieu to “One of the worst movies in memory.” However, there are compelling reasons to indulge in watching it before it disappears. Don’t miss out on this distinctive chance!
Bringing one of Broadway’s most enduring and beloved musicals to the silver screen is a monumental task.
When Universal took on the challenge of adapting Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Cats’, they were armed with a prestigious director and a star-studded cast, including icons like Judi Dench and Ian McKellen, as well as current sensations like Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, and Taylor Swift.
It seemed like a recipe for success, but as history has shown, being the first to tackle such a project doesn’t always guarantee a smooth ride.
Upon its release in 2019, ‘Cats’ faced a flurry of mixed reviews. Some critics praised its visual spectacle and the performances of its talented cast, while others found its adaptation lacking in coherence and execution.
Eulà lia Iglesias notably remarked that the film had an unintentionally sinister nature, echoing sentiments shared by other reviewers who found it overwhelming to the senses.
Despite the criticisms, ‘Cats’ managed to carve out its own unique place in cinematic history. Its peculiar blend of digital effects, musical numbers, and anthropomorphic characters created a polarizing viewing experience that left audiences either enchanted or perplexed.
The film’s legacy was further cemented by its subsequent removal from Netflix, sparking renewed interest in its infamous “Butthole Cut.”
The “Butthole Cut” saga added another layer of intrigue to the ‘Cats’ phenomenon.
Reports emerged of CGI-animated anuses being added and later removed during the film’s production, leading to speculation about the decision-making process behind such a bizarre creative choice. Filmmaker Rian Johnson‘s endorsement of the #ReleaseTheButtholeCut movement only added fuel to the fire, further fueling curiosity and amusement among fans.
In the midst of the controversy, actor Seth Rogen offered his own unique perspective on ‘Cats’. His candid commentary on Twitter, fueled by his state of intoxication, provided a humorous and relatable take on the film’s surreal narrative and visual spectacle.
Rogen’s remarks served as a reminder of the film’s enduring appeal as a cultural curiosity, even in the face of critical derision.
As ‘Cats’ bids farewell to streaming platforms and enters the annals of cinematic history, its legacy remains a topic of fascination and debate.
Whether viewed as a misunderstood masterpiece or a misguided misfire, ‘Cats’ has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, ensuring its place in the pantheon of cult classics for years to come.
The phenomenon surrounding ‘Cats’ extends beyond its theatrical release. It has sparked a broader discussion about the nature of filmmaking, the role of CGI in modern cinema, and the impact of online communities on the perception of art.
In an era where social media can amplify both praise and criticism, ‘Cats’ serves as a cautionary tale for filmmakers and audiences alike, highlighting the power of collective opinion in shaping the legacy of a film.
Despite its initial reception, ‘Cats’ has found a second life as a cultural touchstone, inspiring memes, parodies, and even academic analyses.
Its status as a “so-bad-it’s-good” film has only enhanced its appeal to a new generation of viewers, who delight in its campy dialogue, extravagant musical numbers, and uncanny visual effects.
In conclusion, ‘Cats’ may not have been the critical or commercial success that Universal had hoped for, but its impact on popular culture cannot be denied.
From its star-studded cast to its infamous “Butthole Cut,” the film has become a symbol of cinematic eccentricity, capturing the imagination of audiences around the world.
As it fades from the spotlight, ‘Cats’ leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, controversy, and catnip-infused nostalgia that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
