Cats (2019) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Cats is set primarily in London, specifically at the abandoned Egyptian Theatre. This ornate, mystical venue serves as the main location for the Jellicle Ball, the annual gathering where the cats compete for the chance to be reborn. The setting combines urban London streets with this magical theatrical space, creating a whimsical backdrop for the feline community.

• london
• egyptian theatre
• setting
• jellicle ball
• location

The Egyptian Theatre is an abandoned theatre in London that serves as the mystical backdrop for the Jellicle Ball. Its ornate architecture and forgotten grandeur align with the magical nature of the Jellicle cats' world, providing an enchanting setting for the cats' musical performances and the ritual selection of which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer.

• egyptian theatre
• london
• jellicle ball
• setting
• venue

Cats takes place in a whimsical, timeless world rather than a specific historical period. The film portrays an imaginative realm where anthropomorphic cats inhabit urban London at night, capturing the magical essence of city nightlife under the moonlight. This timeless setting allows the story to feel both familiar and fantastical.

• time period
• timeless
• setting
• london night
• fantasy world

Belonging is a central theme in Cats, primarily explored through Victoria's journey as a lost white cat seeking her place among the Jellicles. The film emphasizes acceptance and community, showing various characters each seeking connection and a sense of family within their feline society. Victoria's growth and eventual acceptance into the Jellicle family demonstrates that finding one's community is a universal desire.

• belonging
• acceptance
• community
• victoria
• jellicles
• theme

Redemption in Cats centers on Grizabella, a once-glorious cat who has been ostracized and yearns for acceptance. Her emotional journey represents the power of forgiveness and second chances. The Jellicles ultimately embrace her despite her past, showing that everyone deserves an opportunity to redeem themselves. Grizabella's redemption becomes the emotional core of the film.

• redemption
• grizabella
• forgiveness
• second chance
• theme

Magic in Cats is embodied primarily through Mr. Mistoffelees, a shy but remarkably talented magician cat. His magical abilities bring wonder and excitement to the narrative, demonstrating how belief in magic can unite characters and help them overcome challenges. The theme emphasizes how the fantastical intertwines with the ordinary world of the Jellicles.

• magic
• mr. mistoffelees
• wonder
• theme
• fantastical

Victoria is a young, graceful white cat portrayed by Francesca Hayward. She embodies innocence and curiosity, having been abandoned and initially lost. Throughout the story, she discovers her strength and artistic talents, particularly during the Jellicle Ball. Her journey represents finding one's place and building connections with others.

• victoria
• white cat
• Francesca Hayward
• character
• jellicle

Grizabella, played by Jennifer Hudson, is a once-glorious cat who has been ostracized from the Jellicle community. She longs for acceptance and connection, expressed through her poignant ballad. Her character arc embodies the theme of redemption, as the Jellicles eventually come to embrace her despite her past, leading to her being chosen for rebirth.

• grizabella
• Jennifer Hudson
• redemption
• outcast
• character

Old Deuteronomy, portrayed by Judi Dench, is the wise matriarch and leader of the Jellicle cats. She represents compassion and guidance, observing the bonds forming between characters and facilitating pivotal moments in the Jellicle Ball. Her leadership reinforces the themes of belonging and acceptance that run throughout the film.

• old deuteronomy
• Judi Dench
• matriarch
• leader
• jellicle

Mr. Mistoffelees, played by Laurie Davidson, is a bashful yet talented magician cat with remarkable magical abilities. His shy demeanor contrasts with his extraordinary powers, and he develops affection for Victoria, supporting her throughout her journey. He plays a crucial role in bringing the Jellicles together, showcasing loyalty and charm.

• mr. mistoffelees
• Laurie Davidson
• magic
• magician
• character

Macavity, portrayed by Idris Elba, serves as the film's villain, characterized by cunning and sinister charm. He possesses the ability to vanish, which creates danger and disrupts the Jellicles' harmony. Macavity seeks power and control but ultimately faces defeat through the unity of the Jellicle community.

• macavity
• Idris Elba
• villain
• antagonist
• character

The Jellicle cats are a tribe of anthropomorphic felines who gather annually for the Jellicle Ball. In this magical world, they compete for the honor of being chosen for the Heaviside Layer, a mystical realm where one cat will be reborn and granted a new life. This transformation represents hope and renewal for the entire community.

• jellicle cats
• heaviside layer
• rebirth
• jellicle ball
• tradition