Cats

I am here to tell you that “Cats” is not as bad as everyone says. If you are looking for a movie with a linear plot that is coherent and dialogue, stay away from this one. It is surreal, but then the play was the same way. I never understood why it ran as long as it did. The music is quite good; not Andrew Lloyd Webber’s best score, but it has a few memorable songs. Based on T.S. Elliot’s poems, “Cats” is more about the individual characters than what they are doing. It’s almost like a vaudeville or talent show. Each number shows off that particular cat’s story. Some of the performances are worth noting. Judi Detch, dressed up in a Cowardly Lion costume, is regal and intimidating. Ian McKellen’s one number as Gus the Theater Cat practically steals the show. Jennifer Hudson once again stops the show singing “Memories”. (Personally I like Betty Buckley’s version in the Broadway version.) Taylor Swift’s song is a hoot. The newcomers are all spot on. Again, it’s the missing plot that people can’t come to terms with. If you like musicals, fantasy and bizarre costumes, you’ll like “Cats”. Otherwise stay away.