The global phenomenon known as Cat Video Fest is once again bringing the internet’s most beloved feline antics to the silver screen, offering a heartwarming and hilarious cinematic experience that defies conventional film programming. This unique G-rated compilation, spanning 73 minutes, showcases a diverse array of all things cat – from the endearingly silly and cuddly to the profoundly sentimental and comedic, proving that the charm of our whiskered friends transcends digital boundaries.
Behind this delightful annual compilation is Will Braden, a Seattle-based curator celebrated for his comedically existential “Henri, le Chat Noir” shorts. Braden’s dedication is evident in his self-proclaimed job title, “I watch cat videos,” a task he undertakes with serious intent, sifting through thousands of hours of internet footage to handpick only the best for the festival. His meticulous process ensures a rich tapestry of feline entertainment, far removed from mere “cats falling into a bathtub” scenarios.
Braden’s vision for the Cat Video Fest extends beyond simple viral clips, embracing animated features, creative music videos, and even miniature documentaries that highlight the broad spectrum of the cat video genre. He aims to demonstrate the artistic potential and emotional depth found within these popular short films, captivating audiences with a blend of innovation and pure, unadulterated cuteness.
Now in its impressive eighth year, Cat Video Fest has expanded its paw prints across the globe, reaching audiences not only in the U.S. and Canada but also making significant inroads into the UK, Denmark, and, for the first time, France, Spain, Japan, and Brazil. This growing international footprint underscores the universal appeal of feline content and the festival’s burgeoning success, having generated over $1 million at the box office last year alone.
Initially, convincing independent movie theaters to program a festival of cat videos presented a considerable hurdle. However, Braden, in partnership with indie distributor Oscilloscope Laboratories, discovered that a single year of successful screenings was all it took to convert skeptics into enthusiastic partners. The compelling draw of the event and its consistent box office performance quickly established its credibility and popularity within the independent film circuit.
Today, the festival boasts an impressive roster of theatrical partners, including renowned venues such as Alamo Drafthouse, IFC Center, Nitehawk, Vidiots, Laemmle, and Music Box. These screenings consistently attract a remarkably diverse audience, spanning generations and demographics—from young children and dedicated “cat ladies” to trendy hipsters, grandparents, and everyone in between, proving its wide-reaching appeal and ability to unite disparate groups.
According to Braden, the enduring charm of Cat Video Fest lies in its unparalleled universal appeal, comparing it to cultural touchstones like Pixar movies or Taylor Swift concerts in its capacity to captivate nearly everyone. He confidently asserts that the world will neither run out of captivating cat videos nor people eager to watch them, ensuring the festival’s continued success and its ongoing mission to deliver laughter and joy for a good cause.
