MILWAUKEE -- Last year's film adaptation of the Broadway musical 'Cats' was a massive disappointment; the movie failed to turn a profit and was greeted by (in some cases) comically bad reviews. But that hasn't stopped the forces of the internet from demanding a special screening at one of Milwaukee's best movie houses.
Earlier this week, a Twitter user by the name of @mackzegreat started a Change.org petition called "Bring 'Cats' to the Oriental Theatre."
My current objective is to have the @TheOrientalMKE host a screening of @catsmovie. Sign the petition to get it done. #catsforever https://t.co/2CVfQt8q5k via @Change
— The one they call... Mack (@mackzegreat) February 1, 2020
The petition quickly caught the attention of the Milwaukee Film, the group that owns and operates the Oriental. They offered a challenge: If the petition could reach 100 signatures, they would show the movie.
Tell you what - you hit 100 signatures on that petition, you've got yourself a deal. https://t.co/tLxFjPDXEY pic.twitter.com/ajtsNupmI9
— Milwaukee Film (@mkefilm) February 4, 2020
Well, because this is the internet, the petition quickly reached that 100-signature goal, leading Milwaukee Film to announce (with regret) a screening would be "coming soon...apparently."
Coming soon to a theater near mew, apparently. https://t.co/LWOmPg05nz pic.twitter.com/XTlkSeYGpv
— Milwaukee Film (@mkefilm) February 4, 2020
This wouldn't be the first time 'Cats' has gotten the repertory treatment. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, which operates a chain of theaters across the country, hosts what they call 'Rowdy Screenings' of the movie, similar to the cult-like following 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' has garnered over the years.
Though Milwaukee Film has yet to formally announce a screening, we think it would be a purrfect fit. Stay tuned for more.
