Emilia Jones and Nicholas Braun star in the upcoming film Cat Person, and from the looks of the first trailer, their characters may not be the perfect match. Set to release on October 6 by Rialto Pictures, director Susanna Fogel’s feature premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The film is an adaptation of Kristen Roupenian’s viral New Yorker short story, also titled Cat Person. It offers a modern take on dating, focusing on college student Margot (played by Emilia Jones) who enters into a fling with an older man named Robert (played by Nicholas Braun), only to become suspicious of his intentions.
In the trailer, Margot expresses regrets about her time spent with Robert. Her friend Taylor, played by Geraldine Viswanathan, asks if at least his pet cats were cute. Margot ominously replies that she never saw them, raising doubts about Robert’s honesty. As the trailer progresses, Margot casually remarks, “One of us has to die.”
The cast of Cat Person also includes Hope Davis, Fred Melamed, Isabella Rossellini, Christopher Shyer, and Liza Koshy. Susanna Fogel, known for directing The Spy Who Dumped Me, directs the film from a script by Michelle Ashford, adapted from Roupenian’s 2017 story. The executive producers of the film include Fogel, Ashford, Elizabeth Banks, Shana Eddy-Grouf, Gino Falsetto, Max Handelman, Daniel Hank, Rachel Henochsberg, and Anna Marsh.
Lovia Gyarkye, a critic for The Hollywood Reporter, described Cat Person as a “high-wire adaptation” in her review. She predicted that the film would undoubtedly find a captivated and devoted audience. The film’s debut at Sundance prompted Fogel to express her anticipation for sparking conversations with viewers. She stated, “I don’t need everyone to like the movie. I don’t need everyone to like the choices that we made. But I do want people to talk about it.”
Cat Person explores the complexities of contemporary relationships and the power dynamics that can emerge. It delves into themes of identity, attraction, and the blurred boundaries between truth and perception. The original short story gained widespread attention when it was first published in The New Yorker, resonating with readers and sparking discussions about consent, communication, and gender dynamics.
The film adaptation aims to capture the essence of the story while expanding on its themes and characters. Emilia Jones delivers a compelling performance as Margot, portraying the character’s vulnerability and inner turmoil with depth and nuance. Nicholas Braun brings a charismatic and mysterious charm to the role of Robert, leaving viewers uncertain of his true intentions.
Susanna Fogel’s direction infuses the film with tension and suspense, heightening the psychological aspects of the story. The cinematography and production design create a visually captivating atmosphere, reflecting the characters’ emotional journeys. The soundtrack complements the narrative, enhancing the film’s moments of intimacy and tension.
Cat Person offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human connections in the digital age. It delves into the anxieties and insecurities that accompany modern dating, raising questions about authenticity and the masks people wear in their interactions. The film serves as a cautionary tale, reminding viewers of the importance of communication, understanding, and empathy in relationships.
As the release date for Cat Person approaches, anticipation builds among audiences and film enthusiasts alike. With a talented cast, skilled direction, and a compelling narrative, the film is poised to captivate and engage viewers. Its exploration of contemporary dating dynamics and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality is likely to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Cat Person has the potential to spark conversations and prompt introspection about the complexities of human connections. It serves as a reminder that relationships are not always what they seem and that true understanding requires open and honest communication. As viewers delve into the world of Margot and Robert, they will be confronted with their own biases, assumptions, and expectations, ultimately questioning their own experiences and perceptions.
In conclusion, Cat Person is an eagerly anticipated film adaptation of Kristen Roupenian’s viral short story. Emilia Jones and Nicholas Braun deliver compelling performances, portraying complex characters in a story that explores modern dating dynamics. Directed by Susanna Fogel, the film serves as a cautionary tale about the blurred lines between truth and perception. With its thought-provoking themes and engaging storytelling, Cat Person is set to captivate and resonate with audiences.