Cast
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Jeff Goldblum
as Professor Brody
Elizabeth Perkins
as Mrs. Brody
Alexander Pollock
as Scotty Brody
Miriam Margolyes
as Sophie the Castle Maid
Tobey Maguire
as Lou the Beagle (voice)
Alec Baldwin
as Butch (voice)
Sean Hayes
as Mr. Tinkles (voice)
Susan Sarandon
as Ivy (voice)
Joe Pantoliano
as Peek (voice)
Michael Clarke Duncan
as Sam (voice)
Jon Lovitz
as Calico (voice)
Charlton Heston
as The Mastiff (voice)
Glenn Ficarra
as Russian Blue (voice)
Billy West
as Ninja Cat #1 (voice)
John Michael Higgins
as Ginger Kitten (voice)
Crew
Director
- Lawrence Guterman
Producer
- Christopher DeFaria
- Andrew Lazar
- Craig Perry
- Warren Zide
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Family/Comedy/Action/Adventure/Fantasy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Cats & Dogs distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Lawrence Guterman brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Cats & Dogs took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $60.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 2390 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Cats & Dogs shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Karate Bear Fighter, which focuses more on action than character development, Cats & Dogs subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Karate for Life and SPL: Kill Zone explore similar territory, Cats & Dogs stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 4, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 27m
- Budget: $60,000,000
- Revenue: $93,375,151
