Full Breakdown
Andrew Lloyd Webber's Discontent with the 2019 Film Adaptation of Cats
4/1/2026, 7:59:09 PM
Overview of the Discontent
Andrew Lloyd Webber, the composer behind the iconic musical Cats, has expressed significant dissatisfaction with the 2019 film adaptation directed by Tom Hooper. The film, which featured a star-studded cast including Jennifer Hudson, Idris Elba, James Corden, and Taylor Swift, was met with widespread criticism and is often cited as a box office failure, earning a mere 19% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Webber's Reaction and Therapy Dog
In a recent interview on CBS Sunday Morning, Webber revealed that his disappointment with the film led him to acquire a Havanese puppy, which he humorously referred to as his "therapy dog." He explained that he uses the dog to alleviate the stress caused by the film's reception, stating, "I just write a note to the airline saying, you know, ‘Reason for dog on plane: Cats movie.’ And they always come back saying, ‘No doctor’s certificate required.’" This sentiment underscores the extent of his discontent, as he remarked that listing his grievances with the film could result in a "very, very long list."
Criticism of the Film's Direction
Webber has been vocal about his belief that the film's failure stemmed from Hooper's decision to exclude anyone involved in the original stage production from the film's creative team. He described the situation as "ridiculous," indicating that this choice contributed to the film's poor execution. The adaptation's reliance on digital effects and its departure from the stage show's essence were also points of contention for Webber.
Broader Reception and Impact
The film adaptation of Cats has been widely derided, with critics labeling it a "cat-astrophe." It has been noted for its confusing plot and bizarre tone, which many felt did not translate well from the stage to the screen. The backlash was so severe that it earned several awards at the Razzies, highlighting its status as one of the worst films of the year.
Current Developments
Despite the film's failure, Cats has made a resurgence on Broadway with a new version titled Cats: The Jellicle Ball, which aims to reimagine the classic musical. This revival seeks to capture the original's spirit while incorporating fresh choreography inspired by the New York City Ballroom Scene.
Verbatim Quotes
Conclusion
Andrew Lloyd Webber's strong negative feelings towards the 2019 film adaptation of Cats highlight the challenges of translating beloved stage productions to the big screen. His experience serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in adapting artistic works and the potential repercussions of creative decisions made during the filmmaking process.