The Cat Came Back

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.

Canada's National Film Board has produced a seemingly endless number of terrific shorts over the years, and this is one of the best ones. There are numerous funny moments in this thoroughly enjoyable cartoon, and the closing scene is a perfect and appropriate end to the film. If you ever come across this film, please take a few minutes and give it a chance. You will not be disappointed.

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

This cartoon was nominated for the Oscar for Best Animated Short Film in 1989. It lost to an amazing film from Pixar, THE TIN TOY, but that doesn't mean that THE CAT CAME BACK is a bad film--just of a much simpler and older style than the CGI film.

The graphics for this short are far from great but given the subject matter, this actually helped the film--giving it a certain kooky charm. The film begins with an angry guy playing the tuba when he is interrupted by the arrival of a cute yellow cat. Despite being cute, though, the cat is super-destructive and impossible to get rid of no matter what the man does. In the end, he does get rid of the cat once and for all....or so he thinks! The craziness and over the top style are what make this simple film. While nothing new here, it is done with such style and fun that anyone seeing it will be hooked.

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)