The Cat in the Hat returns to theaters in a delightfully silly CGI-animated romp that puts a modern take on the classic children’s story. Generations of Dr. Seuss fans will find the mischievous feline and his wacky blue-haired “things” instantly recognizable, but may be surprised by the depth of a heartfelt new adventure set in a vastly more detailed universe. The Cat in Hat introduces a plethora of supporting characters in a tentpole film meant to kickstart a new franchise. This means there’s a lot going in addition to the wild shenanigans. Adults who prefer a simple narrative might be overwhelmed, but the youngest tykes will certainly enjoy the film's frenetic energy and humor.
The Cat in the Hat isn’t an exact adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ 1957 book. That entire story takes place within a minute of the opening and those child protagonists aren’t seen here. Instead, we get an exploration of the chaotic aftermath and learn that the Cat in the Hat (Bill Hader) works for an organization tasked with making kids happy. There’s a corporate structure led by the nasty Mr. Hoogeboom (Giancarlo Esposito), who’s tired of the Cat’s wanton destruction. Their goal is to turn frowns upside down, but not destroy everything and cause mass panic. These results are measured on the “mess-o-meter” and let’s just say the Cat’s readings are off the charts.
Mr. Hoogeboom, who’s flat like a pancake and speaks in rhyme, beckons the Cat to his office with the sweet Sherri from HR (Quinta Brunson) in tow. The cat’s about to be fired, but dear Sherri notes his employment contract allows for a second chance. The villainous Hoogeboom warns the Cat he can’t raid the supply closet for mission supplies, but knows the Cat will ignore that order. There’s an incredibly powerful and dangerous device hidden in the closet that the unwitting Cat can’t help but take.
Meanwhile, in the human world, the exasperated middle-schooler Gabby (Xochitl Gomez) glowers with resentment as her mother Carmen (America Ferrera) moves their family into a new apartment. Sebastian (Tiago Martinez), Gabby’s little brother, hides his pet fish Waffles (Matt Berry) from their imperious landlord Patty (Paula Pell), who threatens eviction for even minor infractions. The glum Gabby doesn’t think Carmen understands her, finds Sebastian annoying, and fumes when she’s left to babysit as their mother goes to work. The kids scream when the Cat in the Hat crawls out of a tiny mouse hole with promises of a great adventure. He’s got every gadget for guaranteed fun, especially a shiny watch with an amazing ability.
Let’s start with the obvious differences that might cause some consternation with conservative traditionalists. Carmen is a single Latina mother raising two children on her own. There’s no father present or any human adult male characters. This absence is notable and worth addressing because it’s sure to be a talking point. Co-directors Erica Rivinoja, screenwriter of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, and Alessandro Carloni, a prolific former DreamWorks animator known for the Kung Fu Panda films, focus on a modern family and their struggles. Some may be upset at this representation, but it is a truthful depiction of an average American household. Children will be able to empathize with Gabby and Sebastian’s plight because their home life is accurately reflected.
Politics aside, The Cat in that Hat never fails to be amusing, visually engaging, and earnest. The filmmakers vary the animation styles with the human world being CGI and the imaginative subplots, which cleverly take place inside the apartment’s moving boxes, bursts with vibrancy and color. These scenes are akin Dr. Suess’ creative illustrations with fantastic new characters like Pig in the Wig and a singing Psychic Narwhal. Each box holds what Carmen, Gabby, and Sebastian treasure. Home is with your loved ones. Places can change but the people you care about establish permanence. This is the lesson the Cat teaches and will be clearly understood by all children when the credits roll.
The Cat in the Hat has a banner short that nearly steals the thunder of the main attraction. The Looney Tunes gang are back in the hilarious Duck Season. Daffy (voiced by the recently departed Eric Bauza) is stunned when Elmer Fudd is nowhere to be found when duck hunting season starts. Why isn’t he being chased? Where are all the hunters? Don’t they know this is his time in the spotlight? Audiences will fall out of their chairs laughing when they see what Elmer, Bugs Bunny, and all of our favorites are doing instead of chasing Daffy.
The Cat in the Hat is solely meant for kids and plays directly to them. There are no double entendres or anything adult-focused meant as a wink and nod for parents. It’ll drag in some parts for older age groups, but have no doubt everyone will be laughing throughout. There’s also a lovely sweetness that gives the film more heart than expected.
The Cat in the Hat is a production of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, and A Stern Talking To. It will be released theatrically on November 6th from Warner Bros.