lukewarm material that has its moments

Rating: Null/10 (16 November 2019)

Functioning as both a spin-off and a prequel, with the titular feline character that first appeared in the second Shrek film getting his own full-length feature that spotlights him as a wanted fugitive from the law. There are more cat puns, idioms, and witticisms than you'll likely care to count, some which hit, some which miss, as well as some sly Zorro in-jokes so as to take full advantage of the vocal talents of Banderas, and familiar characters on hand like Jack and Jill, and one Humpty A. Dumpty. Despite all the characters and colorful lines the plot is pretty flimsy, and the protagonist seems better suited for a supporting role within the company of Shrek and Donkey instead of having his own full-length feature, as even with a fairly short running time it feels padded-out. The content is tame enough to attract its target audience, but not inspired enough to span a new franchise. **½