Watch Gay Purr-ee

Gay Purr-ee is an animated musical feature film from 1962 that showcases the voice talents of Judy Garland, Robert Goulet, and Red Buttons. Directed by the duo of Abe Levitow and Chuck Jones, the movie is set in early 20th century Paris and follows a young country cat named Mewsette who dreams of moving to the big city to become a glamorous star. She sets out on her journey and meets a group of alley cats led by the charismatic Tom, who helps guide her through the ups and downs of city life.

Right from the start, the movie is visually striking with its beautiful hand-drawn animation and vibrant colors that capture the essence of Paris and its various locations. The movie uses this beautiful animation to bring its characters to life, most notably Mewsette, who is a sweet and charming protagonist with a love for adventure and ambition. Her journey to become a star is filled with obstacles and heartbreak, but she maintains a hope and optimism throughout that makes her journey all the more endearing to watch.

Opposite Mewsette is Robespierre, a scrappy alley cat who is a standout character in the film. Voiced by Red Buttons, Robespierre is quick-witted and street-smart, with a genuine heart of gold underneath his tough exterior. His dynamic with Mewsette is a highlight of the movie, as they form an unlikely friendship that is tested by the harsh realities of city life.

There are also musical numbers scattered throughout the movie, which are delightful and catchy. The songs, written by legendary Broadway composer Harold Arlen and lyricist E.Y. Harburg, range from upbeat and fun to somber and reflective, providing a varied and engaging soundtrack that fits the story well. Judy Garland is in great form as always, delivering powerful and emotive vocals throughout, while Robert Goulet also shines with his smooth and confident singing.

One of the standout aspects of Gay Purr-ee is how it balances its lighter musical moments with heavier themes and emotions. The movie doesn't shy away from exploring the darker side of city life, such as poverty and danger. Mewsette's journey is a bittersweet one, as she finds that becoming a star costs more than she originally anticipated. Despite the hardships, however, the film maintains an optimistic tone that is ultimately uplifting and heartwarming.

Overall, Gay Purr-ee is a wonderful animated musical that captures the magic of Paris and tells a touching story about following one's dreams. The animation is gorgeous, the music is memorable, and the characters are endearing. It's easy to see why the movie has become a cult classic over the years, and why it remains a beloved gem of 1960s animation.

Gay Purr-ee is a 1962 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.