Cats (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Cats is set primarily in London, using the city's shadowy alleys, elegant streets, and theater-like atmosphere as its backdrop. The setting creates a world of imagination and adventure that blends both elegance and mystery, fitting for a tribe of anthropomorphic cats.

• london setting
• jellicle cats location
• film backdrop

Cats is set in a timeless narrative that doesn't anchor to a specific era. The story feels both contemporary and classic, making it relatable across generations without being tied to any particular historical period.

• time period
• timeless setting
• era

The Heaviside Layer is a magical realm depicted in the film where one cat is chosen to ascend and be reborn each year. It serves as the central concept of the Jellicle Ball, representing transformation, renewal, and the possibility of a new beginning for the chosen cat.

• heaviside layer
• rebirth
• jellicle choice
• magical realm

The film explores three major themes: identity, as Victoria and other cats discover their true selves; celebration, represented by the Jellicle Ball where the tribe comes together; and redemption, embodied in Grizabella's journey from exile to acceptance.

• themes
• identity
• celebration
• redemption
• meaning

The Jellicle cats are a tribe of feline characters who gather annually for the Jellicle Ball. Each cat has a unique personality and name, with their multifaceted identities representing the various roles and natures individuals hold throughout their lives.

• jellicle tribe
• feline characters
• ensemble cast

The Jellicle Ball is the annual celebration where the Jellicle tribe gathers to honor their community and traditions. During this joyous event, one cat is selected to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn, making it the most important night for the tribe.

• jellicle ball
• annual celebration
• tradition ceremony

Grizabella is a once-glamorous cat who has been exiled from the Jellicle tribe due to her past. She represents the theme of redemption, longing for acceptance and belonging. Her emotional journey culminates in her performance of 'Memory' and her eventual elevation to the Heaviside Layer.

• grizabella
• redemption
• exile
• memories song

Victoria is a graceful white cat who serves as the audience's entry point into the Jellicle world. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, evolving from uncertainty to confidence while learning about the tribe and her own identity.

• victoria
• white cat
• protagonist
• self-discovery

Munkostrap is the leader of the Jellicle cats, embodying bravery and responsibility. He acts as a mentor figure to Victoria, guiding her through the Jellicle world while balancing leadership with compassion for all members of the tribe.

• munkostrap
• leader
• mentor
• jellicle head

Mr. Mistoffelees is a magical feline known for his quick thinking and charm. He plays a crucial role in the climax by saving his friends from danger, embodying hope and creativity while showcasing the importance of courage in adversity.

• mr mistoffelees
• magical cat
• heroic act

Memory, performed by Grizabella, symbolizes longing, regret, and the hope for a fresh start. The song conveys her emotional struggle to reconnect with the Jellicles and represents the broader theme of redemption and the possibility of new beginnings.

• memory song
• ballad
• emotional theme
• redemption

Grizabella's ascension to the Heaviside Layer represents her redemption and full reintegration into the Jellicle community. It symbolizes the possibility of new beginnings and demonstrates that even those who have been ostracized can find acceptance and transformation.

• ascension
• redemption
• hope
• acceptance