Common Sense Media Review
Very cute animation with Randy Newman music.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Cats Don't Dance
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a delightful and underrated gem, featuring vibrant animation, catchy music, and entertaining characters that appeal primarily to younger audiences. While it carries a sweet message about pursuing dreams, some parents express concerns about the potentially scary villain and slapstick violence, noting that it may not be suitable for sensitive children.
- underrated gem
- catchy music
- vibrant animation
- age-appropriate
- strong messages
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
A singing, dancing cat named Danny goes to Hollywood to become a star in this colorful and energetic animated musical suitable for all but the very youngest toddlers. He finds, however, that no one in Hollywood thinks that animals can be stars. A Shirley Temple-style moppet named Darla Dimple pretends to help him audition with his friends, only to sabotage their big number by flooding the soundstage. Danny, humiliated, decides to go back home. But he can't give up, and the rousing finish has all of the animals staging a spectacular musical number, with the inadvertent help of Ms. Dimple.
Is It Any Good?
The animation in CATS DON'T DANCE is well above average, if not quite up to the Disney standard. The voice characterizations are excellent, with Scott Bakula and Jasmine Guy as the leads and Kathy Najimy, Don Knotts, and George Kennedy outstanding in supporting roles. Parents will appreciate some sly satire and the music, written by Randy Newman and performed by Natalie Cole.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about judging others on their talent and character, rather than their appearance, and about working for your dreams, even when the obstacles seem insurmountable. Kids may also like to talk about Darla Dimple, why she was so threatened by the talented animals and the contrast between the way she behaved in private and when she was in the public eye.
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 26, 1997
- On DVD or streaming : September 3, 2002
- Cast : Jasmine Guy , Kathy Najimy , Scott Bakula
- Director : Mark Dindal
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s) , Middle Eastern/North African Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Run time : 75 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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