“Cat Person,” a short story by Kristen Roupenian that went viral in 2017, ignited a firestorm of online debate about consent, power dynamics, and the often-murky terrain of modern dating. Its raw depiction of a fraught encounter resonated with millions, sparking countless discussions and think pieces. Naturally, the transition to a feature film, directed by Susanna Fogel and starring Emilia Jones and Nicholas Braun, was met with both anticipation and trepidation. How could the nuanced ambiguity of the original story be translated to the screen? Would the film capture the uncomfortable truths that made the short story so compelling? The resultant film, released in 2023, has become a lightning rod of conversation, mirroring the original story’s ability to provoke and challenge its audience.   

From Page to Screen: The Genesis of “Cat Person”

The journey of “Cat Person” from a New Yorker short story to a full-length feature film is a testament to the story’s enduring impact. Roupenian’s narrative, told from the perspective of Margot, a college student, details her awkward and increasingly unsettling relationship with Robert, an older man she meets at a movie theater. The story’s power lies in its unflinching portrayal of Margot’s internal monologue, her shifting perceptions, and the gradual erosion of her initial attraction. The film adaptation, while adhering to the core narrative, expands upon the story, delving deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations.   

The decision to adapt “Cat Person” was not without its challenges. The short story’s brevity and reliance on Margot’s internal thoughts posed a significant hurdle for filmmakers. Fogel and screenwriter Michelle Ashford faced the task of fleshing out the characters and creating a compelling visual narrative while remaining true to the story’s essence. They opted to expand the timeline, add supporting characters, and explore the social context in which Margot and Robert’s relationship unfolds. This expansion, while necessary for a feature-length film, also opened the door to interpretations and critiques that differed from the original story’s reception.

The Cast and Their Portrayals: Embodying Ambiguity

Emilia Jones, known for her breakout role in “CODA,” delivers a nuanced performance as Margot. She captures the character’s vulnerability, her internal conflicts, and her growing unease. Jones’s portrayal is marked by subtle shifts in expression and body language, conveying Margot’s evolving emotional state with remarkable precision. Nicholas Braun, often typecast as the awkward and well-meaning Greg in “Succession,” takes on a more complex and unsettling role as Robert. He navigates the character’s contradictions, portraying him as both charming and off-putting, a man whose intentions remain ambiguous.   

The casting choices were crucial in translating the story’s themes to the screen. Jones and Braun’s chemistry, or lack thereof, is central to the film’s success. Their interactions are marked by a palpable tension, a sense of unease that permeates every scene. The actors’ ability to convey the characters’ internal struggles and conflicting desires is essential in maintaining the film’s ambiguity and provoking thought.

Exploring Themes of Consent and Miscommunication

“Cat Person” delves into the complexities of consent and miscommunication, particularly in the context of modern dating. The film portrays the subtle ways in which power dynamics can influence interactions, and how unspoken expectations and assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and discomfort. Margot’s internal struggle, her attempts to navigate her own desires and fears, is a central focus of the narrative. The film raises questions about the nature of consent, the role of social pressure, and the difficulty of communicating one’s boundaries.   

The film’s portrayal of consent has sparked considerable debate, with some viewers arguing that it accurately reflects the complexities of modern dating, while others criticize its handling of the issue. The film does not offer easy answers or clear-cut moral judgments. Instead, it invites viewers to grapple with the ambiguities and contradictions inherent in human relationships. The film’s exploration of miscommunication is equally nuanced. Margot and Robert’s interactions are marked by a series of missed signals and unspoken assumptions. Their inability to communicate effectively leads to a growing sense of alienation and misunderstanding.

The Film’s Reception: A Mirror to the Original Story’s Controversy

The film’s reception has mirrored the controversy surrounding the original short story. Critics and audiences have expressed a wide range of opinions, with some praising its nuanced portrayal of consent and power dynamics, while others criticize its handling of sensitive issues. The film’s ambiguity, its refusal to provide clear-cut answers, has been both praised and criticized.

Some viewers have found the film’s portrayal of Margot’s internal struggles relatable and insightful, while others have criticized her passivity and indecisiveness. The film’s depiction of Robert has also been a source of contention, with some viewers finding him menacing and predatory, while others see him as merely awkward and misguided. The film’s ability to provoke such diverse reactions is a testament to its power and its relevance to contemporary discussions about gender, power, and consent.

Expanding the Narrative: Changes and Additions

The film adaptation of “Cat Person” necessarily expands upon the original short story, adding new characters, subplots, and scenes. These additions have been met with mixed reactions, with some viewers praising the film’s ability to flesh out the characters and explore their motivations, while others criticize the changes as unnecessary or distracting.

One of the most significant changes is the expansion of Robert’s backstory. The film delves into his personal life, revealing his insecurities and vulnerabilities. This expansion humanizes Robert, making him a more complex and nuanced character. However, it also raises questions about the film’s portrayal of his actions. Some viewers have argued that the film’s attempt to humanize Robert undermines the story’s exploration of power dynamics and consent.

The film also introduces new supporting characters, including Margot’s friends and Robert’s colleagues. These characters provide context and perspective, shedding light on the social dynamics that influence Margot and Robert’s relationship. However, some viewers have criticized the film’s use of these characters, arguing that they detract from the central focus on Margot and Robert. The film’s expansion of the timeline, its exploration of Margot’s college life, and its depiction of the social media landscape have also been met with mixed reactions. Some viewers have found these additions to be insightful and relevant, while others have criticized them as unnecessary or distracting.

Analyzing the Film’s Visual Language and Tone

Susanna Fogel’s direction in “Cat Person” is marked by a deliberate and understated approach. The film’s visual language is subtle, relying on close-ups, lingering shots, and a muted color palette to convey the characters’ internal states and the film’s overall tone. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to absorb the nuances of the characters’ interactions and the subtleties of their emotional responses.

The film’s tone is marked by a pervasive sense of unease and ambiguity. Fogel avoids sensationalizing the narrative, instead focusing on the subtle shifts in power dynamics and the gradual erosion of Margot’s comfort. The film’s use of music and sound design is also effective in creating a sense of tension and unease. The film’s visual language and tone contribute to its ability to provoke thought and challenge viewers’ assumptions.

The Film’s Legacy and Relevance in the #MeToo Era

“Cat Person” arrives in the wake of the #MeToo movement, a cultural moment that has brought increased attention to issues of sexual harassment, assault, and consent. The film’s exploration of power dynamics and miscommunication resonates with the themes of the #MeToo movement, prompting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and assumptions.

The film’s legacy is likely to be defined by its ability to spark conversation and debate. Its nuanced portrayal of consent and power dynamics, its refusal to offer easy answers, and its exploration of the complexities of modern dating make it a relevant and timely film. “Cat Person” serves as a reminder that consent is not always clear-cut, that power dynamics can be subtle and insidious, and that communication is essential in navigating the complexities of human relationships.

FAQs

Is “Cat Person” a thriller?

While the film contains elements of suspense and psychological tension, it’s more accurately described as a drama with thriller elements. It aims to create a sense of unease and discomfort rather than delivering traditional jump scares.

How does the film differ from the original short story?

The film expands upon the short story, providing more background for the characters and exploring their motivations in greater depth. It also adds supporting characters and subplots to create a more fleshed-out narrative.   

Why is the film so controversial?

The film’s exploration of consent and the portrayal of the characters’ ambiguous actions have sparked debate among viewers. Some find the film’s depiction of these issues to be nuanced and thought-provoking, while others criticize it for its handling of sensitive topics.

Where can I watch “Cat Person”?

As it had a limited theatrical release, availability on streaming platforms and for rental/purchase may vary. It is best to check streaming services, and online rental and purchase sites.

The film provides a platform for ongoing discussions about consent, communication, and the shifting landscape of gender relations. The film stands as a reflection of the conversations that began with the short story, and continues to evolve as the world grapples with the ever-changing nature of interpersonal dynamics. The film’s impact lies in its ability to challenge viewers’ perspectives and encourage them to engage in critical thinking about the complex issues it raises. It is a film that will continue to be discussed and debated for years to come, its relevance enduring as society continues to navigate the complexities of modern relationships. The film’s ability to provoke thoughtful discussion is a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue about consent, power, and communication. It is a film that demands attention and invites reflection, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

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