The digital world’s most cherished feline moments are poised to make a grand transition to the silver screen this weekend, as the highly anticipated Cat Video Fest embarks on its largest tour yet, gracing over 500 independent cinemas across the United States and Canada. This unique cinematic event transforms viral internet sensations into a communal big-screen experience, promising laughter and heartwarming moments for audiences of all ages.
At the heart of this global phenomenon is Will Braden, the visionary Seattle-based curator renowned for his “Henri, le Chat Noir” series. Braden’s dedication to this unique art form is profound; his business cards playfully yet accurately declare, “I watch cat videos.” This commitment isn’t an exaggeration, as he meticulously sifts through thousands of hours of online content annually to compile a fresh, diverse, and captivating program for the festival.
Braden’s curatorial philosophy extends beyond the typical expectation of “funny cat videos.” He emphasizes a broader interpretation of what a “cat video” can encompass, actively seeking out animated shorts, intricate music videos, and even miniature documentaries featuring felines. This thoughtful approach ensures the compilation offers a rich tapestry of storytelling and visual artistry, deliberately avoiding the monotonous repetition of common comedic tropes like cats simply falling into bathtubs.
Now in its eighth triumphant year, the Cat Video Fest has achieved unprecedented growth, solidifying its status as a significant cultural event. Its reach has expanded beyond its traditional North American strongholds to include the United Kingdom, Australia, and, for the first time, New Zealand, Japan, and South Africa, marking a truly global presence. This international expansion underscores the universal appeal of feline content and the festival’s burgeoning popularity.
The festival’s commercial success is equally impressive, with screenings generating over $1 million at the box office last year. This financial achievement highlights the strong public demand for such niche content and validates the innovative distribution model employed by Braden and his partners. It demonstrates that a well-curated collection of short, engaging online media can translate into a profitable and celebrated theatrical experience.
Convincing independent movie theaters to program Cat Video Fest was initially a hurdle in its nascent stages. However, Braden, in collaboration with indie distributor Oscilloscope Laboratories, discovered that a single year of successful screenings was sufficient to overcome any skepticism. The festival’s proven track record of attracting diverse audiences and generating revenue quickly turned initial reluctance into enthusiastic partnership from venues like Alamo Drafthouse, IFC Center, Nitehawk, Vidiots, and Laemmle.
The festival’s broad appeal is one of its most compelling aspects, drawing in a wide demographic that includes children, dedicated “cat ladies,” discerning hipsters, and even grandparents. Braden confidently asserts the enduring viability of the concept: “We’re not going to run out of cat videos and we’re not going to run out of people who want to see it.” This unwavering confidence underscores the timeless charm of feline companions and the continuous stream of creative content they inspire, ensuring the festival’s continued relevance and entertainment value each year.
