It's convenient that this was intended as an homage to the 'Cat people' films of the 40s, because as a TV movie, it rather carries itself with much the same sensibilities. The writing and direction are characterized by a bit of ham-handedness, a softer tone than the average horror flick, and a focus on drama and investigation over discrete violent events. 'The cat creature' does perhaps show a little more than its kin of a few decades' past, which got by mostly on suggestion alone; the trade-off is that like some other made-for-TV horror, part of the gist here is simply demonization of cats. Suffice to say that this isn't necessarily the most robust and invigorating of genre fare, but if you're open to the lighter side that is sometimes represented, it's quite well made and enjoyable on its own merits.
Though constrained by the tenor of the production, the cast give capable, earnest performances to bring their characters and the story to life. Among others, Meredith Baxter illustrates admirable nuance, David Hedison is a fine anchor, and I appreciate the knowing smarm Gale Sondergaard brings to Hester. Even in small supporting parts it's always a pleasure to see Keye Luke and John Carradine. This is well made generally, including Leonard Rosenman's score that lends a tinge of atmosphere; Charles Rosher's cinematography is as solid as Curtis Harrington's direction. The sound effects, special makeup, and art direction are all swell. And credit where it's due - Douglas S. Cramer, Wilfred Lloyd Baumes, and screenwriter Robert Bloch penned an interesting, compelling story. The picture boasts an admirable sense of mystery on top of the genre elements portending murder, mythology, and supernatural goings-on, and while the telling in this instance falls on the gentler side of things, ultimately 'The cat creature' really is an entertaining, satisfying piece of horror.
Why, even without the utmost intensity to the proceedings, I dare say this stands considerably taller than many other flicks that fall under the horror umbrella, and it does so just on the strength of its writing, acting, and direction, with no more than a modest air of sensationalism. Where feline-centric features are concerned, I'd say it fits neatly between 1942's 'Cat people' and its 1982 remake in terms of how dark its vibes are; in terms of overall quality I favor the latter two, yet there's no significant difference when you get down to it. This certainly is a major improvement over the milquetoast 1944 curiosity 'The curse of the cat people.' And comparisons aside, I truly believe this title to be strong enough to provide the horror flavors we crave: it's not a visceral thrill ride, no, but it's smartly made with just enough of a devious undercurrent to sate any but the most hard-nosed of purists.
I had mixed expectations when I sat to watch, but for my part I'm pleased with how good 'The cat creature' is, and I'd have no qualms about recommending it to just about anyone. It may not be something that wholly demands viewership, but if you're receptive to the horror sensibilities that television and older cinema have to offer, I think this is well worth checking out!
Though constrained by the tenor of the production, the cast give capable, earnest performances to bring their characters and the story to life. Among others, Meredith Baxter illustrates admirable nuance, David Hedison is a fine anchor, and I appreciate the knowing smarm Gale Sondergaard brings to Hester. Even in small supporting parts it's always a pleasure to see Keye Luke and John Carradine. This is well made generally, including Leonard Rosenman's score that lends a tinge of atmosphere; Charles Rosher's cinematography is as solid as Curtis Harrington's direction. The sound effects, special makeup, and art direction are all swell. And credit where it's due - Douglas S. Cramer, Wilfred Lloyd Baumes, and screenwriter Robert Bloch penned an interesting, compelling story. The picture boasts an admirable sense of mystery on top of the genre elements portending murder, mythology, and supernatural goings-on, and while the telling in this instance falls on the gentler side of things, ultimately 'The cat creature' really is an entertaining, satisfying piece of horror.
Why, even without the utmost intensity to the proceedings, I dare say this stands considerably taller than many other flicks that fall under the horror umbrella, and it does so just on the strength of its writing, acting, and direction, with no more than a modest air of sensationalism. Where feline-centric features are concerned, I'd say it fits neatly between 1942's 'Cat people' and its 1982 remake in terms of how dark its vibes are; in terms of overall quality I favor the latter two, yet there's no significant difference when you get down to it. This certainly is a major improvement over the milquetoast 1944 curiosity 'The curse of the cat people.' And comparisons aside, I truly believe this title to be strong enough to provide the horror flavors we crave: it's not a visceral thrill ride, no, but it's smartly made with just enough of a devious undercurrent to sate any but the most hard-nosed of purists.
I had mixed expectations when I sat to watch, but for my part I'm pleased with how good 'The cat creature' is, and I'd have no qualms about recommending it to just about anyone. It may not be something that wholly demands viewership, but if you're receptive to the horror sensibilities that television and older cinema have to offer, I think this is well worth checking out!