Angie Ambos
Throughout the history of Disney films, cats have been featured as protagonists, antagonists, and side characters. From the iconic Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland to the mischievous Siamese cats in Lady and the Tramp, felines have played a significant role in many of Disney’s most beloved stories. This article will explore the various feline characters featured in Disney films and examine their impact on viewers.
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The Origins of Feline Characters in Disney Films
Disney’s inaugural full-length animated movie was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), a classic that has endured for generations. Although no cats were featured in this classic movie, the studio’s next release, Pinocchio (1940), included a minor character named Figaro, an orange-and-white tabby cat Geppetto owned. Figaro was an immediate hit with audiences and eventually became a recurring character in Disney shorts and comic books. He was also one of Walt Disney’s favorite characters.
The next major cat character to appear in a Disney movie was The Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland (1951). This sly feline is known for his mysterious grin and ability to disappear at will. He serves as Alice’s guide during her journey through Wonderland and is often seen offering her cryptic advice. The Cheshire Cat is one of the most iconic characters from any Disney film and has appeared in various spin-offs and media adaptations over the years.
Cats as Protagonists
Cats have also been featured prominently as protagonists in several Disney films. One of the earliest examples is Thomas O’Malley from The Aristocats (1970). Thomas is an alley cat who helps Duchess and her kittens escape from a wealthy butler who wants to get rid of them. Thomas is brave, loyal, and resourceful, making him an ideal protagonist for a family-friendly movie. He also has a memorable singing voice provided by Phil Harris.
One of the most beloved cat protagonists is Rajah from Aladdin (1992). Rajah serves as Princess Jasmine’s loyal pet tiger, protecting her from harm while she lives with Jafar. Although fierce when protecting his mistress, Rajah is gentle and playful. He is a loyal companion to Jasmine throughout the movie and helps her escape Jafar’s clutches in the end.
Cats as Antagonists
Cats have also been featured as villains in several Disney movies. One of the most memorable examples is Edgar from The Aristocats (1970). Edgar is the butler of Madame Adelaide Bonfamille, the owner of the Duchess and her kittens. He’s a cruel and conniving character who plots to get rid of the Duchess and her kittens so he can inherit Madame Adelaide’s fortune. His plan is foiled by Thomas O’Malley, who helps Duchess and her kittens escape his clutches.
The Siamese cats from Lady and the Tramp (1955) are also antagonists in this archetypal Disney movie. These duplicitous felines cause hassle for Lady, Tramp, and their proprietors, Jim Dear and Darling. They attribute Lady for destroying furniture, consuming food off the table, and other misbehaviors while they stay hidden. Ultimately, they get their due when angry dogs chase them away.
Cats as Side Characters
Cats have also been featured as side characters in various Disney films. Dinah from Alice in Wonderland (1951) is one of the most iconic examples. Dinah is Alice’s pet cat who appears briefly throughout the movie, including during Alice’s tea party with The Mad Hatter and March Hare. She’s often seen chasing after Cheshire Cat or being carried around by Alice while she explores Wonderland.
Another memorable cat side character is Oliver from Oliver & Company (1988). Oliver is a small orange kitten who befriends a group of streetwise dogs led by Dodger after he escapes a pet shop. Although he starts as an inexperienced stray, Oliver becomes a valuable group member thanks to his courage and resourcefulness.
Conclusion
Throughout the history of Disney films, cats have been featured prominently as protagonists, antagonists, and side characters. From Figaro to The Cheshire Cat to Thomas O’Malley, these feline characters have charmed audiences with their antics and endeared themselves to viewers with their loyalty and courage. Whether serving as heroes or villains, cats remain an important part of Disney’s animated films today.
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