Cats are mysterious, headstrong, and sometimes downright brilliant, so it’s no surprise that they often steal the show in movies. Whether they’re heroes, villains, or just lazy furballs, these films prove that cats don’t need Hollywood – Hollywood needs cats.
Here are 10 films where cats are the real stars.
1. The Aristocats (1970) – The ultimate cat classic
When you think of cat movies, The Aristocats is probably the first that comes to mind.
When a rich cat and her kittens are kidnapped, they must team up with a charming alley cat to make it back home.
With jazzy music, adorable kittens, and a delightful French vibe, this is one of the most beloved cat films ever.
2. Puss in Boots (2011) – The coolest cat from Shrek gets his own movie
Antonio Banderas as a suave, charismatic, swashbuckling cat in boots and a hat? Yes, please.
After his debut in Shrek 2, Puss in Boots became so popular he got his own adventure film. In it, he searches for the mythical Golden Goose while facing old enemies and finding new allies.
Bonus: his huge, adorable eyes remain one of the most iconic moments in the Shrek franchise.
3. A Street Cat Named Bob (2016) – A true cat story
This film is based on the real-life story of street musician James Bowen, whose life changed when he adopted a stray cat.
Bob the cat helps James overcome his addiction, and the two become inseparable. It’s a heartwarming tale of friendship, perseverance, and of course, one incredibly smart cat.
Fun fact: the real Bob plays himself in the film!
4. The Cat Returns (2002) – A Studio Ghibli masterpiece
Japanese animation and cats are a perfect combo, and The Cat Returns is proof of that.
Haru, a schoolgirl, saves a cat and discovers he’s the prince of the Cat Kingdom. As a reward, she’s forced to marry him, sparking a whimsical escape with the mysterious Baron.
The film is dreamy, fairy-tale-like, and packed with bizarre, adorable cat moments.
5. Garfield: The Movie (2004) – The laziest cat ever on screen
Garfield is the king of laziness, lasagna, and sarcastic remarks.
In this live-action/CGI film, Garfield finds himself on an adventure to save Odie (the dog). Despite his cynical attitude and love for food, he proves he has a heart of gold.
Bill Murray as the voice of Garfield? Perfect casting.
6. Minoes (2001) – The ultimate Dutch cat film
In this Dutch family film, Carice van Houten plays a mysterious woman who used to be a cat.
She still acts like a cat, communicates with other cats in town, and helps a journalist uncover a corruption scandal.
Minoes is a heartwarming, funny, and uniquely Dutch film where cats are not just secret whisperers, but actual heroes.
7. Nine Lives (2016) – Kevin Spacey turns into a cat
A wealthy, arrogant businessman (Kevin Spacey) is magically turned into a cat after an accident.
Now, he must learn what truly matters in life while trying to communicate with his family as a furry four-legged pet.
It’s cheesy and bizarre, but for cat lovers, it’s a fun guilty pleasure.
8. Felix the Cat: The Movie (1988) – The first cartoon cat gets a feature film
Felix the Cat is one of the oldest and most iconic cartoon cats, and in 1988, he got his own movie.
In this adventure, Felix travels to a magical dimension to rescue a princess from an evil ruler.
It’s weird, colorful, and full of strange animation – but Felix remains a legend.
9. The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986) – Cat and dog in the wild
Milo (a cat) and Otis (a dog) get separated and embark on an epic journey to find each other again.
What makes this film special is that it was entirely shot with real animals – no CGI or voice actors.
The adventures and obstacles they face are both exciting and adorable, making it a classic for animal lovers.
10. Coraline (2009) – The creepiest cat in animation
Coraline discovers a dark, alternate version of her world, and the nameless black cat becomes her mysterious guide.
He can talk, knows more than he lets on, and moves between dimensions as if it’s nothing.
The film is imaginative and spooky, and the cat is undoubtedly one of the coolest and smartest movie cats ever.
