In her upcoming memoir, the actress reflects on her role in the ill-fated adaptation of the beloved musical
Category: Arts & Culture
Dame Judi Dench, the esteemed actress known for her remarkable career spanning nearly seven decades, has expressed her disappointment with the 2019 film adaptation of *Cats*, describing it as a "waste of goodwill and talent." In her forthcoming memoir, *Is It Too Late to Make a Run For It?*, Dench shares her candid thoughts on the film, which has drawn considerable criticism since its release.
Dench, who portrayed the character Old Deuteronomy in the film, lamented that the project, which was based on Andrew Lloyd Webber's 1981 musical, ended up being a complete catastrophe. The film featured a star-studded cast, including James Corden, Taylor Swift, Idris Elba, and Jennifer Hudson, but it was met with widespread derision from critics and audiences alike. It grossed only $76 million (£61 million) against a production budget estimated at $100 million (£80 million).
In her memoir, Dench candidly noted, "Oh God, I can't bear it!" as she discussed the film's toxic reputation for the first time. She expressed frustration that Lloyd Webber had waited so long for the film to be made, only for it to disappoint. "What a waste of all that goodwill and talent," she wrote, acknowledging the film's troubled reception. "I understand the critics were rather hostile to the film. I never saw the final cut so I can't judge." This admission places her among many who opted not to view the finished product, which was released without all its editing and CGI properly completed.
The *Cats* film adaptation was a commercial failure and a cultural phenomenon that became notorious for its uncanny visual effects and peculiar performances. Critics panned the film for its unsettling CGI, which many described as falling into the "uncanny valley." According to Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently holds a dismal 19% approval rating, illustrating its poor reception.
Dench maintained that the cast, which included notable talents like Rebel Wilson, Sir Ian McKellen, and Jason Derulo, did their best under challenging circumstances. She emphasized that no one sets out to give a poor performance or create a bad film. "You do your best, offer something up, and hope that people will get on board and join the party," she remarked. Dench also noted that sometimes projects simply do not work out due to various factors, including timing and cast chemistry. "But people's intentions are mostly honourable. There were no villains in the making of *Cats*," she stated.
Her sentiments were echoed by her close friend Ian McKellen, who described the film as a "ridiculous enterprise" but suggested it could become a classic in the future. He told *Yahoo! Movies* that the film's ambitious nature might eventually be appreciated, even if it currently stands as a cautionary tale in cinematic history.
Following its release, *Cats* became infamous at the 2020 Golden Raspberry Awards, where it received multiple nominations. Dame Judi Dench herself was nominated for Worst Supporting Actress for her role in the film, a distinction she approached with humor. During an appearance on BBC Radio 4's *Front Row*, she remarked, "Oh, am I? That would be good. As far as I know, that's a first!" Dench, who is not particularly fond of reading reviews, added, "You kind of know, yourself, about something, I think."
At the Razzies, Dench lost the award to her co-star Rebel Wilson, who portrayed Jennyanydots. The film also won the award for Worst Picture, with director Tom Hooper recognized as Worst Director and James Corden receiving the Worst Supporting Actor accolade for his role as Bustopher Jones. The film's legacy is marked by its financial shortcomings and by its recognition at the Razzies, which serves as a reminder of its tumultuous reception.
Dame Judi Dench's memoir, *Is It Too Late to Make a Run For It?*, is set to be released on November 3, 2026. In it, she reflects on the highs and lows of her illustrious career, providing insights into her experiences both on stage and screen. The memoir will likely be a candid look at her life, including her thoughts on various projects, including the infamous *Cats*.
As for Tom Hooper, the director of *Cats*, he has not helmed a film or television show since the movie's release. Instead, he has shifted his focus to commercial projects. Reports indicate that he is attached to direct the film adaptation of Millie Bobby Brown's book *Nineteen Steps* for Netflix, as well as a film about scientist Rosalind Franklin titled *Photograph 51*.
In the aftermath of *Cats*, Dench's reflections serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of filmmaking. As she stated, "If something isn't a success, then there are always things you can say you've learnt." The lessons drawn from the *Cats* experience may resonate with Dench and with filmmakers and actors alike as they navigate the complex world of cinema.