The 12 Most Awesome Cats in Films

      Here are 12 of the coolest cats featured in films. Ranging from traditional animation to live-action, these feline friends are sure to either warm your heart or give you chills.

      **Thomas O’Malley in The AristoCats (1970)**

      Let's kick things off with a classic.

      All the cats in this 1970 Disney film about a feline family are charming, but Thomas O’Malley (shown above with his cat wife and children) takes the top spot.

      Just look at his adorable green bowtie! Thomas steps in to rescue Duchess and her kittens when their rightful fortune is taken from them. He transforms from a street cat to a refined gentleman in this delightful movie that’s bound to bring a smile to your face.

      **Blofeld’s Cat in From Russia With Love (1963)**

      Blofeld's Cat in From Russia With Love, United Artists – Credit: C/O

      Making his first appearance in the 1963 James Bond film From Russia With Love, Blofeld’s cat has become a staple of the Bond series.

      Ernst Stavro Blofeld is Bond’s arch-enemy, a malevolent bald villain with a facial scar fixated on world domination. But villains need affection too, and Blofeld finds it in his pet cat.

      He’s frequently seen with his cat in his lap. Different incarnations of his elegant white cat have featured in other Bond films such as For Your Eyes Only, Never Say Never Again, You Only Live Twice, and Diamonds Are Forever.

      **Puss in Puss in Boots (2011)**

      Puss in Boots, Paramount Pictures – Credit: C/O

      Antonio Banderas lends his voice to the lead character in this Shrek spin-off prequel about the valiant little sword-fighting kitten.

      He certainly earns a place among our list of coolest cats in movies, not just for his cuteness but also for his bravery—just like many of our feline friends.

      Puss first debuted in the original Shrek films before starring in his own movie in 2011. His character draws inspiration from the classic European fairy tale, Puss in Boots, about an anthropomorphic cat that uses cunning to achieve success. The tale traces back to the 1500s.

      **Rum Tum Tugger in Cats (2019)**

      Jason Derulo in Cats, Universal Pictures – Credit: C/O

      Whatever your opinion of this 2019 musical, Jason Derulo's portrayal of Rum Tum Tugger in Cats definitely deserves recognition on our list of the coolest movie cats.

      His character roots trace back to T.S. Eliot’s 1939 poem collection, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Rum Tum Tugger also plays a significant role in the 1981 musical Cats, based on Eliot’s poetry.

      Derulo embodies the character with its rebellious attitude and Cockney accent in the 2019 film, along with impressive singing, even in a movie that has received its share of criticism.

      **Milo from The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986)**

      A still from The Adventures of Milo and Otis, Columbia Pictures – Credit: C/O

      No list would be complete without Milo, the lovable orange tabby from the cherished 1986 film The Adventures of Milo and Otis.

      Milo is best friends with a pug named Otis. Shot in Japan, the film chronicles the duo's escapades away from their farm.

      Milo often finds himself in predicaments, and Otis loyally stays by him, helping him navigate through trouble. This is a film that both dog and cat lovers can enjoy together.

      **The Cat in Coraline (2009)**

      A still from Coraline, Focus Features – Credit: C/O

      Here’s a spooky cat to round out our list. Being eerie is one of the things that cats excel at, particularly black cats, especially around Halloween.

      In the claymation classic Coraline, the Cat character plays a crucial role. Voiced by Keith David, he informs Coraline of his ability to traverse between her world and the “Other” world, where her Other Mother resides. He cautions her to be vigilant there.

      Though his appearance is unsettling—truthfully, all the characters in Coraline have a creepy vibe—he ultimately aids Coraline when she needs it most.

      **Simba in The Lion King (1994)**

      A still from The Lion King, Disney – Credit: C/O

      Simba is an undeniable pick for one of the coolest cats in cinema. How could we overlook him? He’s iconic and heartfelt.

      Simba, the offspring of Mufasa and Nala, the king and queen of the pride, is a central figure in this classic Disney film. This makes him the prince, and he famously hears from his father as a cub, “Look Simba, everything the light touches is our kingdom.”

      There’s also a photorealistic animated version of The Lion