A brand new Cat features in History of Legendary animals

“A Streetcat named Bob” is now showing in cinemas and enchanting people everywhere even though the cat’s “owner” Tom Bowen, played by the fascinating actor Luke Treadaway,  has ups and downs regarding his accommodation, his employees at The Big Issue, his former drug addiction and his on/off/on girlfriend not to mention that no evidence is shown in the movie of his clearly talented lyric-writing habit. In addition you will see that James eventually makes some kind of healing with his father whom he has seen rarely for several years.

The star of the story is undeniably “Bob”.  As a former owner of more than one cat, I can vouch that a pet cat can be so understanding, attentive and intelligent that its presence can fulfill yours and your neighbours and friends’ lives   in a mesmerising way.

Bob is played by the original real Bob and mostly fulfills audience expectations of being a truly cherishable cuddly ginger puss of an adventurous, compassionate, occasionally mischievous and  cantankerous but ultimately lovable nature.

For his adopted owner, James Bowen, Bob came to save his way forward furnishing it in a manner that can only normally be imagined in fairy stories. James in return nurtured and loved the feline fellow, mostly played by the original Bob though if you watch carefully you will note there is more than one ginger tom filmed in the story.

Some of the scenes containing James Bowen’s cold turkey fight to come off Methodone following his heroin addiction are a bit harrowing and not really suited to younger viewers, but in general it is a film that most people over about 15 would enjoy.  It is undeniably a simple story but also uplifting and in the end father and son seem to make up which is refreshing,  as well as James (son) penning a bestselling account of his life since Bob found him to culminate in this feelgood factor saga.  If you’re curious go and catch it at your local cinema.

As ever with British films I have to say the acting is so natural that one almost feels like a spy on a true story – in this case it IS a true story so no problems there then.  Whatever your view of cats and we are a cat loving nation your understanding of them will be increased after seeing this film.

Enjoy!

Penny Nair Price

 

Director Roger Spottiswoode, Starring Luke Treadaway, Anthony Head and Joanne Froggartt.