The Story of the Cat

Genre: Educational

Year Published: 1983

Creator: DOUG HEIL AND BOB NAGEL

Format: 16mm

Sound: sound

Description: CLICK HERE TO SEE THE STUDY GUIDE FOR THIS FILM An animated allegory about a curious cat who delights in the mysteries of the world until gradually his curiosity is replaced by a desire for security. He becomes contented, grows fat, and becomes a rather boring cat. The Story of the Cat won over 10 awards and has aired on HBO, Cinemax and Showtime. Awards:  Certificate of Regional Achievement, Student Academy Awards Special Merit Award for Best Children’s Film, Athens International Film Festival Finalist, American Film Festival shown at the International Animation Festival in Ottawa.  Also released in French in 1987 under title: L'histoire du chat Once there was a curious, exciting cat. To him the world was a magical place. In the home where he lived little talking men appeared and disappeared in a box; a copycat talked and danced in a window; and a dragon leaped from its cave and chased him. The world was amazing, and as he joyously pursued its mysteries, he delighted everyone, especially children. But at night the cat was troubled by frightening dreams because in a magical world, anything and everything could happen ... to him. Gradually a need for security replaced his curiosity. He stopped wondering about what was next door or across the street and concentrated on the things in front of him. He began to understand many of the magical things that used to baffle him: the TV, mirror, and vacuum cleaner. He found comfort in his owner’s arms and snuggled on the soft old sofa. He became content and grew fat. All the neighborhood cats envied the life he led.   Yet there was a problem. Our friend became a rather boring cat and no one really cared about him anymore. Still, he did have a good life. Its solitude was comforting and it gave him plenty of time for what he wanted to do most—sleep and dream about wonderful things . . .  about when  he was young . . .