Buzz
Watching a skilled animal perform on screen is always captivating, and cats bring a unique charm to the experience. Their ability to shine in front of the camera is particularly remarkable, given their notorious independence and reluctance to follow instructions.
Despite the challenges, the world of professional cat acting persists. A notable example is the Coen brothers' film Inside Llewyn Davis, which features several feline performers. While promotional materials highlight a striking orange tabby carried by Oscar Isaac, multiple cats were used during filming. The Coens described the process as daunting, with Ethan Coen remarking to NPR, "Filming with cats is a nightmare—they’re entirely self-interested. As the animal trainer put it, 'Dogs aim to please; cats only please themselves.' Compared to their experience with a trained vulture in True Grit, the brothers found working with cats far more challenging.
Nevertheless, the feline performances in Inside Llewyn Davis are extraordinary. The cats were tasked with demanding actions, such as leaping from windows, remaining composed on bustling streets, and navigating a noisy subway car—feats that even some human actors might struggle to accomplish convincingly.
The tale of cat acting is as extensive and intriguing as it is slightly mysterious, akin to the charm of a Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest cat, and it’s a story you’ll want to embrace without delay.
From Edison to PATSY
Thomas Edison is credited with introducing the world to the first cat actors. In July 1894, Edison allegedly created the earliest viral cat video by placing two cats in a miniature boxing ring, allowing them to spar (with some human assistance), and capturing the scene on film. Though not trained professionals, these cats delivered a memorable performance.
The first feline to likely appear in a feature film is the mysterious star of Edgar G. Ulmer’s The Black Cat. While the name of the black cat actor remains unknown, its sleek presence throughout the 1934 movie plays a crucial role in the storyline and its eerie atmosphere.
Following The Black Cat, numerous cats have made their mark in cinema. Orangey, the celebrated feline who portrayed Cat in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (also known as Jimmy and Rhubarb), holds the distinction of being the only cat to win two PATSY Awards (Picture Animal Top Star of the Year, the animal equivalent of an Oscar). Other notable PATSY-winning cats include Pyewacket from Bell, Book and Candle, Syn Cat from That Darn Cat!, and Morris from the iconic 9Lives advertisements.
The Anonymous Feline Stars
While some cat actors are well-known, many iconic roles have been played by unnamed felines. Examples include Jake from the 1978 movie The Cat From Outer Space, Binx from 1993's Hocus Pocus, and Jones from 1979's Alien. Additionally, one of the most famous unnamed cats appeared in seven James Bond films.
This white Turkish Angora, the cherished pet of the infamous villain Blofeld, appeared in From Russia With Love, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Diamonds Are Forever, For Your Eyes Only, and Never Say Never Again. Often seen being ominously petted by Blofeld, the cat became a symbol of the villain's presence, even as the character was portrayed by different actors or remained unnamed. Despite lacking a formal name, Blofeld’s cat became an iconic figure in the Bond universe.
The fame of Blofeld’s cat has inspired numerous parodies, including Mr. Bigglesworth in the Austin Powers series and references in the Inspector Gadget cartoons.
Cats and Dogs, Living Together...
Many films centered around animals keep our furry companions in the spotlight. Notable examples include Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey and The Adventures of Milo and Otis, which heavily relied on the talents of their animal stars, including cats who had to coexist with dogs. Tiki the Himalayan, who portrayed Sassy in the former, brought a spirited flair to her role while sharing the screen with a Golden Retriever and an American Bulldog.
Similarly, The Adventures of Milo and Otis demanded harmony between its feline and canine actors. The various cats playing Milo, a curious orange tabby, had to bond with the pugs portraying Otis. Filmed over four years, the identities of the animals remain a mystery, despite debunked allegations of mistreatment. Regardless, the cats in Milo and Otis delivered some of the finest performances in feline film history.
In the Harry Potter series, a remarkable number of animal actors, including cats, rats, and owls, were required to perform amidst fantastical and chaotic scenes. Crookshanks, Hermione Granger’s grumpy half-Kneazle cat, stood out as a memorable character. Crackerjack, a male Persian cat, brought Crookshanks to life on screen, showcasing his talent in challenging conditions.
Crackerjack’s dedication to his role was unparalleled. His trainers collected his shed fur, rolled it into balls, and reattached it to him to enhance his scruffy appearance. This commitment to authenticity makes Crackerjack a deserving candidate for a Lifetime Achievement Award in animal acting.
Despite their charm, cats’ independent nature can sometimes disrupt their work. Montie, a backup for the renowned cat actor Vito Vincent, was dismissed from the Broadway production of Breakfast at Tiffany’s for behaving “unruly.” The New York Post covered the story, noting Vito’s demands for a private car and driver, while Montie was replaced by a cat named Moo.
The world of cat acting goes far beyond playful string toys and affectionate belly rubs—it’s a demanding profession that certainly merits a reward or two.
