Five or so years ago, I would never have entertained the idea of owning a cat, and yet, here I am with Kit in my life.
I can’t imagine how James felt when Bob entered his life. I have read the book that this film is based on, which in turn are both based on his recent life story.
Bob was an injured street cat who adopted James and bucks with him as he is a homeless drug addict. Eventually, with the support of a small circle of friends and support workers, he becomes clean.
The film is less hard-hitting than the book which can be quite (but justifiably) graphic. The film is quite tame – the key turning point where James goes cold turkey and becomes clean – is not nearly as hard to watch as it could be. There is a death from an overdose, there is a love interest and family conflict here too, but they don’t convince like the book does.
However… Bob is the star (although I’m not sure he should be), and performs wonderfully throughout. James’ story really should be the thing that you come away with, but, in reality, all you get is a feeling that some cats are just magical.
