Top 5 diverse movies where cats steal the show in more ways than one, ranked

Cats have always been the true scene-stealers of the film world. (And if you're a cat person, you know that they own the real world as well.) There's something about them that grabs our attention whether they're adding just spice to the plot, making us giggle, or merely lounging about in the background.

From the sly black cat in Coraline to Jonesy in Alien, these felines own it. And delving into the movies where these eccentric movie stars really shine would be the best way to honor them. Let's stroll through five diverse films where cats are integral to the plot and atmosphere and are far more than just adorable sidekicks.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are purely feline, and as such, may be unpredictably charming and delightfully independent. (I sincerely hope they don't hurt your eye, just like Goose did with Nick Fury.)

While every film mentioned is undoubtedly a work of art, it’s important to remember that, much like a cat, the perspective on them can be subjective, full of twists, and perhaps even a little unexpected. We take no responsibility for any bouts of cuteness overload or an irresistible urge to adopt more cats after reading this.

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5. The Secret Life of Pets (I & II)*

Now, this one’s the obvious pick, right? But don’t roll your eyes just yet. It’s not just any cat, it’s Chloe, a full-on sass machine who takes no prisoners. Seriously, that kind of cat you’d want as a sidekick if you ever found yourself in a ridiculous adventure with your pets.

The humor it brings to the table isn’t just about being cute, it’s about pure attitude. It may seem like a simple premise, what do pets do when their owners are away? But let’s be real, it’s Chloe who steals the show with her no-nonsense approach to life. Her dynamic with the rest of the animals is hilarious, and it’s these moments that make you wish for more screen time with this sarcastic little furball. The film doesn’t hide its love for the antics of the animals, and Chloe’s quirky charm is at the heart of the comedy.

When you think about it, the pet world isn’t complete without a character like her, someone who’s just a little bit too cool for school but still plays a major role in saving the day. No wonder Chloe earned her place in this list, stealing our attention every time she saunters into the frame.

* I know it makes this list technically a Top 6. However, I failed to choose my favorite from them. So, yes, I included both.

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4. Coraline

Okay, this one’s an absolute masterpiece, and the black cat is a big reason for that. If you haven’t seen Coraline, let me tell you, this isn’t just a story about a weird Other World, it’s about how a silent (at times) and mysterious cat becomes a guide to help our protagonist navigate the unknown.

Although the cat doesn't speak in the actual world, it does in the Other World, providing Coraline with cynicism-based direction and cautions. This cat provides Coraline with the viewpoint she requires to realize the seriousness of her circumstances, not only direction.

If there is one lesson the cat imparts, it is that sometimes silence speaks volumes and sometimes you need some words from a mystical cat to guide you through the turbulence around you.

Though Coraline's iconic blue hair would draw attention, the cat's mysterious presence is what makes a lasting effect. Its intriguing movement across the two worlds, apparently conscious of things it shouldn't be, captures you even long after the narrative finishes. It's more than simply a pet; it's a road map across the unknown, showing that a cunning cat may be your most consistent friend even in an alien and disturbing environment.

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3. The Marvels

Whether you’re a fan or even a hater, there’s no denying that The Marvels brought something unique to the table: a bunch of cats. But not just any cats, these are cute, fluffy cats with tentacles—alien cats, if you will. They’re mischievous, utterly impossible to ignore, and they happen to be the offspring of Goose.

Every time one of these cats purrs or jumps into the scene, it’s like the movie pauses just to let these furry creatures shine. The way these cats interact with the characters is both comedic and surprisingly heartwarming, making their presence one of the film’s most standout feature. I agree with the critics: Chewie Goose deserves a franchise!

Spoiler: That sequence when they seemed to be feline versions of those iconic Tribbles from Star Trek: The Original Series? Unforgettable.

What’s particularly awesome about these cats is how they’ve been integrated into this superhero universe. In a film filled with cosmic battles and intergalactic adventures, it’s a bunch of cute, fluffy alien cats that manage to steal the scene. They add an element of unexpected humor and charm that balances out the intense action. And honestly, who doesn’t love a cat that’s as much of a cosmic anomaly as the rest of the Marvel universe?

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2. A Quiet Place: Day One

In a world where silence is a matter of life or death, A Quiet Place: Day One adds a twist with a cat that’s surprisingly essential to the narrative. It’s easy to forget about the little things when you’re focused on the horrifying creatures lurking around, but this cat brings a soft reminder that survival isn’t just about staying alive, it’s about keeping your humanity. And then there is a cat, whose name is Frodo.

Frodo's presence in the film is enough to remind us of the comfort we seek, even in the midst of chaos. There’s something oddly comforting about knowing that, even in a post-apocalyptic world, a cat can still find a way to make its way through the danger.

And of course, there’s the pure joy of seeing a cat moving stealthily around the house, almost as if it’s trying to stay as quiet as possible. It’s a small touch, but it’s one that adds a little more depth to the movie’s theme of survival. It’s not just about avoiding the monsters outside, it’s about navigating a world that’s eerily quiet, where even the smallest sound can get you killed. It's about saving the day, one silent step at a time. And saving the cat as well.

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1. Alien (1979)

Now, we’ve arrived at the ultimate scene-stealer, Alien. It’s not just the terrifying Xenomorph that gives this film its edge, it’s Jonesy, the cat who’s managed to make his way through one of the most iconic sci-fi thrillers of all time. The cat’s role might seem secondary at first, but by the end of the film, Jonesy has established himself as the true "eighth passenger."

He survives the terror, he avoids the Xenomorph, and he even gets his own moment of fame. In Brazil, the movie was even marketed as Alien - Oitavo Passageiro (Alien – The 8th Passenger) because, let’s be honest, the eighth passenger is, of course, the cat!

Jonesy’s survival skills are unparalleled. While the crew members are running for their lives, the cat is doing what cats do best, finding a way to survive. He becomes a symbol of resilience in the face of unimaginable danger. And let’s be real, Alien wouldn’t be Alien without Jonesy. This cat isn’t just an accessory, it’s a key player in the film’s heart-pounding tension. The fact that Jonesy manages to make it out alive proves that even in a space full of horrors, a cat’s survival instincts can be the most important thing of all.

Fun Fact

Lupita Nyong'o, who stars in A Quiet Place: Day One, used to be afraid of cats! But after filming the movie, where she worked alongside her feline co-stars, she transformed into a full-fledged cat person. She even adopted a feline of her own! Talk about a purrfect transformation.

There you have it, five films where cats not only make their presence known but become the unsung heroes of their respective stories. From quirky animations to terrifying sci-fi epics, these felines prove that sometimes, the smallest characters make the biggest impact. So, next time you see a cat on screen, take a moment to appreciate their true star power, they might just be the ones stealing the show.