When I got the call to review this movie I wasn’t too sure on a couple of counts. One I’m more of a dog person and two I’d had enough documentaries for a while. Am so pleased I went, what a gorgeous uplifting story, based on real life.
A Street Cat Named Bob is the story of a cat that entered James Bowen’s (Luke Treadaway) life when he most needed him. Bowen was a struggling busker performing at London’s Covent Garden and kipping down in an alley at night. Attempting to bet a drug habit Bowen had enough trouble feeding and looking after himself, let alone a persistent cat.
We first meet Bowen busking on the streets. Thanks to the unwavering support of one social worker he finds himself with a roof over his head and on the program. Life is getting better. Enter Bob. With limited money to feed himself the last thing Bowen needs is another mouth to feed.
But Bob has something special. Indeed watching the real life Bob onscreen he oozed more charisma than George Clooney, Ewan McGregor and Tom Hardy combined. He is one remarkable cat.
After Bob lives up to his street cat origins and is found bloodied in the bushes one night, Bowen nurses him back to health then bids him farewell, or so he thinks.
When Bob invites himself along to one of Bowens Covent Garden gigs, and doubles the take, the future for these two is sealed. That is until Bowens life starts devolving through of a series of bad luck and false accusations.
The movie reminds us that you only need one person (or cat) to be in your corner and believe in you. It also highlights the terrific work of organisations like The Big Issue.
As the audience clapped I pondered:
- If this was a Hollywood movie you wouldn’t believe it;
- If only all homelessness could have such an outcome;
- What a strong man and a delightfully charismatic cat, hoping Bob lives to a great age;
- Bizarrely the next morning I woke wandering if I should get myself a cat, truly. If those of you who might decide to surprise me with one, please don’t, I’m sure the feeling will pass. Here’s hoping the next feel good movie isn’t about someone being saved by a water buffalo, my 2×2 apartment wouldn’t cope.
- Look out for opportunities to donate to The Big Issue and RSPCA at the movie venues.
For more information go to Luna Cinemas
