The Cat Came Back

'The Cat Came Back' is likely the best short ever assembled, at least coming out of Canada. Not only is it drop dead funny, but it's original and the animation is great. I caught it on CTV about five minutes ago right before 'Open Mike', and this is the first time I've ever rushed up to the computer so fast to see if it had an IMDb listing and to comment on it. Being only seven minutes long, there isn't much to say about it, except that, if you see only one short movie in your entire life, make it be this one.

This is, without doubt, one of the funniest animated films I've ever seen. Just the shape Johnson's pants is hilarious. The cat's systematic destruction of his house, his mum's picture, the drapes, the soundtrack of the rat blowing out his lighter--priceless. I've seen it a dozen times and every time I see it, I see something new. Brilliant and richly humorous. MD

Mr Johnson lives alone with only his tuba giving him happiness. So when a small cat is dropped on his doorstep he reacts with happiness. This is short lived as the cat breaks a rattle he had had since being a baby. He decides to get rid of the cat straight away – I mean, how hard can it be? Well, thing is about that, the cat came back the very next day and no matter what Johnson tries to do it continues to do so.

I haven't seen this film for years and indeed cannot even remember where it was that I originally saw it. So watching it again recently was quite enjoyable as I got a rush of memory lane. The idea is simple but produces a handful of nice scenarios where the man is trying to get rid of the cat. These are funny but it is the overall delivery of the film that makes it as amusing and enjoyable as it is. The animation is bright and colourful and the portrayal of the cute, harmless little yellow cat contrasts well with what is happening as a result of it being around. The catchy and simple song played over the top is also cheerful and amusing.

Inventive but yet simple, this cartoon has a slightly cruel sense of humour but yet delivers it in a cheerful and colourful manner that contrasts well and creates an entertaining air of comedy. Short and entertaining short film that kids of all ages will be amused by.

This short, nominated for an Academy Award, is one of the two shorts produced under the auspieces of the National Film Board of Canada that most people would recognize (the other is Bob's Birthday) even if they've never seen anything else. The first time I saw this, I wondered if John Weldon and/or Cordell Barker had stood next to Richard Condie too long and mutated! I learned that Condie was directly and significantly involved in its creation. If you are one of the 28 people out there who haven't seen this cartoon, then why are you reading this? Go watch it, for heaven's sake! Most highly recommended.

Excellent short animated film about a pesky cat that won't go away! One day, someone knocks at the door, and leaves a cat. But Mr. Johnson's happiness rapidly turns into a nightmare. He can't get rid of the unwanted cat. Hilarious! I was almost rolling on the floor laughing when he's stuck in the cave with the rats! And don't forget, a cat has nine lives! I would have to agree that this is one of the funniest animated film around. Great product again from the National Film Board of Canada. And the music is adding to the fun.

Seen twice at home, in Toronto, on December 31st, 2004.

88/100 (***½)