Universal Pictures shared an inside look at the upcoming Cats movie today (July 17).
The clip features a behind-the-scenes look at Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson, James Corden, Jason Derulo, Rebel Wilson, Francesca Hayward, Judi Dench, Idris Elba and director Tom Hooper as they all gear up for the film.
“My first memories of performance go back to when I was in Pennsylvania growing up,” Swift reflects. “My favorite thing was getting to be theatrical, to tell a story and I’ve always brought that sort of narrative element to my live shows.”
Dench, who was originally cast as Grizabella in the 1981 production before having to pull out due to a torn Achilles tendon, also appears in the film. “I thought that was my history with Cats, but it turns out not to be,” she says.
“Instantly, I felt the pressure,” Hudson says, talking about the moment she first heard she was going to be in the movie.
Corden owes it all to Hooper, saying, “I really only think it could be done by a director like Tom Hooper. He understands the spectacle of Cats.” Hooper then goes on to talk about the message behind the show: “At the center of this incredibly entertaining, comedic, fantastical musical is a very timely story about the importance of inclusion and redemption.”
The cast and crew also explore the spectacular, Alice in Wonderland-esque set, tirelessly learn the choreography, and experiment with one-of-a-kind technology.
“This film is an event,” Hudson concludes.
The official trailer is set to arrive this Friday (July 19). The film hits theatres this Christmas.
Until then, take an inside look below.
