Here's a film that to my knowledge never made a blip on the radar. This is the type of movie a lot of folks are looking for. Here we have THE sexiest woman around, Rebecca Pidgeon doing what she does best, acting. She lights up every scene. The dry heat setting and razor sharp dialog lured me in from the beginning. This is that curious style of thriller-mystery that really hits the mark. If you like a basically 5 or 6 character film that runs the gamut of emotions, this is right up your alley. Top notch acting by all. Brian Denehey looks like hes doing just about his last role, but lets hope not. The ending is a little messy but don't forget to check the DVD extras to see the original ending. You have to get lucky to stumble upon an engrossing quirky little movie like this. Should be a blu-ray candidate.
13 Reviews
Really?
tetdog13 February 2014
I give props to the Huffs, they have a lot of really good friends to come on IMDb and sing the praises of this film. One tip for next time, maybe don't have EVERYBODY give it 8 to 10 stars and declare it a modern-day indie Out of the Past because it looks that much more conspicuous for a movie in which the leads don't even seem interested. In fairness, I have never seen Rebecca Pidgeon actually convince me she isn't acting, because she doesn't do it well, but that may be a particular style honed working with Mamet. The only thing to recommend this is Dennehy and he doesn't get nearly enough screen time. Anyway, friends (or hirelings) of the Huffs, just for down the line, a little moderation goes a long way when working the con.
Predictable budget film
mark-asher5 December 2009
I saw Cat City at a film festival. I love noir thrillers but Cat City fell quite a bit short. The plot is predictable. The dialog isn't sharp at all. And the acting in a couple of the major roles is wooden. Dennehy is fine as a retired police officer now doing PI work but he doesn't get a lot of screen time. Julian Sands was also good as a real estate guy up to no good. The two major roles that were poorly acted were Rebecca Pidgeon as Sands wife -- she's very wooden -- and William Shockey as a dot com millionaire. Shockey got screenplay credit too.
It's the kind of movie you'd kick yourself over paying to see at a cinema because it's simply not that good. Tellingly, it appears to be going straight to cable. If you catch it on cable you might pass a pleasant enough hour or two, but it won't stand up well against any good film noir movie.
It's the kind of movie you'd kick yourself over paying to see at a cinema because it's simply not that good. Tellingly, it appears to be going straight to cable. If you catch it on cable you might pass a pleasant enough hour or two, but it won't stand up well against any good film noir movie.
I'm not a buddy nor a bot but...
I_should_be_reading_a_book7 February 2021
...even tho I had to watch this film dubbed by Amazon to Spanish, something that was about to make me skip it, I was almost immediately grabbed by the slowly developing plot. (are you getting this, Amazon? Dubbing is for illiterate morons, invest in subs).
True, what the rate busters say it is predictable, the acting is cardboard cliche sometimes but it's not so evident and keeps you watching until the end which, for me at least, was a coin in the air.
Since this isn't going to be aired in any theater anywhere at this time, do watch it; I assure you it will be worth your time. Oh, and watch it 'til the end, the two closing songs are prime musical material.
In sum, a solid indie, 7/10.
True, what the rate busters say it is predictable, the acting is cardboard cliche sometimes but it's not so evident and keeps you watching until the end which, for me at least, was a coin in the air.
Since this isn't going to be aired in any theater anywhere at this time, do watch it; I assure you it will be worth your time. Oh, and watch it 'til the end, the two closing songs are prime musical material.
In sum, a solid indie, 7/10.
The windmills of my mind
jotix10015 September 2009
Warning: Spoilers
The start of this tale sets the tone for what would follow in that one witnesses a man being hung. The story changes to a house taken out of Architectural Digest, in the Palm Springs, Cathedral City area, in which a couple are being watched by what one guesses is a private detective spying on them. No wonder, Nick Compton, is cheating on his wife Victoria, an attorney. Victoria has been working with Harold, the P.I. man, who promises to mail her the incriminating pictures.
Nick has received a call from a friend, Les, to let Jonas, an associate, stay with them while he gets his bearings as he is settling in Cathedral City. Jonas, in fact, might be hiding behind a friendly facade. One thing for sure, Victoria takes quite a dislike to him. When she receives the envelope, she is shocked in finding out the other woman is none other than Allyson Greene, another attorney in the firm they both work.
Things get complicated in this surprising film that came out of nowhere. What attracted us was the fine cast Brent Huff, an actor and director, who has worked extensively on television. Mr. Huff contributed to the screenplay and created a stunning film, not only to look at, but one that keeps us involved in this crime mystery that proved to be a satisfying and entertaining motion picture.
The only thing wrong with the film, in our humble opinion, was the casting of Alano Massi in the pivotal role of the dubious Jonas. Maybe it was his lack of experience, but one can see right through him; he is a bland figure. Rebeca Pidgeon plays the cheated wife, Veronica, in her usual cool style. Julian Sands is good as Nick the man who has been playing with dangerous people. Allyson Huff has some nice moments as the conniving woman with no scruples. Brian Dennehy is always excellent and here appears as Harold the former cop who loves fishing and ocean voyages, two things that he will be rewarded for.
The film is enhanced by Rudy Harbon's cinematography. He captures all the desert colors in vivid detail. His take on the windmills in the area are almost hypnotic. The musical score by Tor Hyams, add a flavor to the film. We look forward to Mr. Huff's next work because he shows he can deliver with films like this one.
Nick has received a call from a friend, Les, to let Jonas, an associate, stay with them while he gets his bearings as he is settling in Cathedral City. Jonas, in fact, might be hiding behind a friendly facade. One thing for sure, Victoria takes quite a dislike to him. When she receives the envelope, she is shocked in finding out the other woman is none other than Allyson Greene, another attorney in the firm they both work.
Things get complicated in this surprising film that came out of nowhere. What attracted us was the fine cast Brent Huff, an actor and director, who has worked extensively on television. Mr. Huff contributed to the screenplay and created a stunning film, not only to look at, but one that keeps us involved in this crime mystery that proved to be a satisfying and entertaining motion picture.
The only thing wrong with the film, in our humble opinion, was the casting of Alano Massi in the pivotal role of the dubious Jonas. Maybe it was his lack of experience, but one can see right through him; he is a bland figure. Rebeca Pidgeon plays the cheated wife, Veronica, in her usual cool style. Julian Sands is good as Nick the man who has been playing with dangerous people. Allyson Huff has some nice moments as the conniving woman with no scruples. Brian Dennehy is always excellent and here appears as Harold the former cop who loves fishing and ocean voyages, two things that he will be rewarded for.
The film is enhanced by Rudy Harbon's cinematography. He captures all the desert colors in vivid detail. His take on the windmills in the area are almost hypnotic. The musical score by Tor Hyams, add a flavor to the film. We look forward to Mr. Huff's next work because he shows he can deliver with films like this one.
CAT CITY a thumbs up!
bryce-4610 January 2009
From the chilling opening scene of CAT CITY to the surprising, uneasy yet satisfying final scene, this 90-minute thriller takes you on a suspenseful ride of greed, love and jealousy with millions of dollars at stake.
Starring Rebecca Pidgeon, Julian Sands, Brian Dennehy, Alano Massi and Shawn Huff, director Brent Huff, who co-wrote the screenplay with William Shockley and Douglas L. Walton, keep you wondering how this mix of murder, deceit and revenge turns out.
CAT CITY, which stands for Cathedral City in California, is the setting for the film amidst its towering desert windmills. Nick Compton (Julian Sands) swings a development and real estate arrangement for the supposed Cathedral City Casino with his lawyer (Shawn Huff) that includes an underhanded senator.
In the meantime, Nick's wife Vicki (Rebecca Pidgeon) hires a detective (Brian Dennehy) only to discover that Nick has more than one shady transaction in the works. When the casino deal goes south, investor Vance Roland (Alano Massi) wants his money back at any cost. The film includes adult situations with some profanity and violence.
See the movie. I give it a thumbs up.
Starring Rebecca Pidgeon, Julian Sands, Brian Dennehy, Alano Massi and Shawn Huff, director Brent Huff, who co-wrote the screenplay with William Shockley and Douglas L. Walton, keep you wondering how this mix of murder, deceit and revenge turns out.
CAT CITY, which stands for Cathedral City in California, is the setting for the film amidst its towering desert windmills. Nick Compton (Julian Sands) swings a development and real estate arrangement for the supposed Cathedral City Casino with his lawyer (Shawn Huff) that includes an underhanded senator.
In the meantime, Nick's wife Vicki (Rebecca Pidgeon) hires a detective (Brian Dennehy) only to discover that Nick has more than one shady transaction in the works. When the casino deal goes south, investor Vance Roland (Alano Massi) wants his money back at any cost. The film includes adult situations with some profanity and violence.
See the movie. I give it a thumbs up.
Style and Substance
Moonmaid232 March 2009
I had the opportunity to watch Cat City at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. I wanted to see for myself what all the buzz was about. The screening was sold out to an enthusiastic crowd. Cat City renewed my faith in independent films. The film noir thriller has both style and substance. A terrific screenplay that kept me on my toes from start to surprising finish. Hollywood should take note that story does matters. The direction, cinematography, costumes and locations were spot on. Brian Dennehy gives an amazing performance and Rebecca Pidgeon has never been better. Cat City is a film that keeps you thinking long after you leave the theater.
Great Directoral Style
cmchaney622 February 2010
While watching typical cable television fare I stumbled on Cat City. I found the desert noir film to be visually stunning with great use of the Palm Springs location. The best way to describe Cat City is to say it's an intensely atmospheric piece. Director Brent Huff creates a gritty, compelling world thick with the air of venality, corruption and desperation.
Huff proves to have a distinct visual and directorial style. For the most part the actors deliver. Brian Dennehy as the grizzled detective shines. It's refreshing to see Rebecca Pidgeon stand out in a film that is not written and directed by her husband, David Mamet. Julian Sands pulls off the hapless rogue to the tee.
Cat City gets well deserved kudo's from me.
Huff proves to have a distinct visual and directorial style. For the most part the actors deliver. Brian Dennehy as the grizzled detective shines. It's refreshing to see Rebecca Pidgeon stand out in a film that is not written and directed by her husband, David Mamet. Julian Sands pulls off the hapless rogue to the tee.
Cat City gets well deserved kudo's from me.
Anything but Predictable!!!
ksusm21 March 2009
"Cat City" is a well written movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. It is anything but predictable as the director, Brent Huff, takes you on a roller coaster ride of greed, deceit, and revenge. The cinematography is outstanding with clever camera angles, beautiful scenery, and consistent theme throughout. The cast does an excellent job portraying the characters and captivating the audience. I was especially impressed with Shawn Huff's performance as "the other woman" and of course, Brian Dennehey. This film keeps you on your toes while providing non-stop entertainment. I would highly recommend viewing "Cat City."
An absorbing Noir film from start to finish.
epetridis-12 July 2010
An outstanding addition to the collection of Modern Noir, Cat City delivers all the familiar elements of the genre in a fresh new setting and story. As noted by other reviews of the film, Palm Springs is an inspired backdrop for this tale of seduction and suspense. The story of a real estate developer who is down on is luck and will do almost anything to secure more financing from a hot young bigwig that comes to town is compelling, as are the characters that get roped into the tale - the developer's insatiable wife, his steamy lover, and the hard boiled detective lured into to surveying them all. Huff masterfully ratchets up the scandal and suspense as the story deliberately clicks towards its extremely satisfying climax.
I highly recommend a viewing of this no nonsense, straight ahead noir thriller.
I highly recommend a viewing of this no nonsense, straight ahead noir thriller.
Solid noir lifted by great performances
GaryMLumpp27 January 2009
(full disclosure: director Brent Huff also directed "Serbian Scars," for which I wrote the screenplay) Film noir is alive and well in "Cat City," a twist-filled thriller that offers up some nice performances and a solid story. Victoria (Rebecca Pidgeon, shining in the lead) is pretty sure her land developer husband Nick (Jeremy Irons) is cheating on her. She hires ex-cop Brian Dennehy to confirm her suspicions, leading to far more than just infidelity. Their new house guest (Alano Massi, in a breakout performance) only complicates things, including revelations surrounding a failed casino project (the "Cathedral City" of the title) and a crooked politician. Before all is said is done guns are drawn, blood is spilled, and the briefcase full of millions ends up changing the lives of more than one person.
Despite its modest budget, "Cat City" does a good job of capturing the feel of a modern updating of the classic double-cross flicks of the 40s and 50s. Director Huff keeps the camera moving, which helps with a script that's heavy on dialog. Pidgeon is great as the smart and sexy wife at the center of things, as is Shawn Huff as the other woman. While Massi takes a little getting used to (the facial hair can only do so much to age a baby face), he has a nice presence and a ton of potential. And Dennehy is excellent as always, a guy who's so effortless at what he does it keeps everyone around him on their toes. Only Julian Sands seems to struggle at times, with his accent coming and going during his quirky take on what's usually the "cad husband who's up to no good" role. However special props go out to William Shockley (who co-wrote the script with Huff and Douglas Walton) - his turn as a Senator on the take might only be for one scene, but it's one of the best supporting turns I've seen in ages. I'd love to see him back in this role and given the whole stage to explore the character.
All in all a solid noir thriller that makes the best of a limited budget by featuring some great locations and even better performances. 8 out of 10.
Despite its modest budget, "Cat City" does a good job of capturing the feel of a modern updating of the classic double-cross flicks of the 40s and 50s. Director Huff keeps the camera moving, which helps with a script that's heavy on dialog. Pidgeon is great as the smart and sexy wife at the center of things, as is Shawn Huff as the other woman. While Massi takes a little getting used to (the facial hair can only do so much to age a baby face), he has a nice presence and a ton of potential. And Dennehy is excellent as always, a guy who's so effortless at what he does it keeps everyone around him on their toes. Only Julian Sands seems to struggle at times, with his accent coming and going during his quirky take on what's usually the "cad husband who's up to no good" role. However special props go out to William Shockley (who co-wrote the script with Huff and Douglas Walton) - his turn as a Senator on the take might only be for one scene, but it's one of the best supporting turns I've seen in ages. I'd love to see him back in this role and given the whole stage to explore the character.
All in all a solid noir thriller that makes the best of a limited budget by featuring some great locations and even better performances. 8 out of 10.
Pretty Damn Good
eeconn1120 August 2009
A throw back film noir thriller with great performances and a lot of style. Rebecca Pidgeon as the femme fatale and Brian Dennehy playing the gum shoe detective. If you like Ms. Pidgeon you won't be disappointed. She's fabulous in the role and has never looked better. Dennehy is solid as ever. All the actors deliver with some fabulous dialogue.
Dennehy, "What ever happened to pencils and paper?" Pidgeon, "They went the way of morals and values." Priceless.
Director Huff does a great job unfolding this highly entertaining who-dun-it. You'll love the plot twist in the end. The beautiful Palm Springs locations only add to the cinematic experience. I highly recommend Cat City.
Dennehy, "What ever happened to pencils and paper?" Pidgeon, "They went the way of morals and values." Priceless.
Director Huff does a great job unfolding this highly entertaining who-dun-it. You'll love the plot twist in the end. The beautiful Palm Springs locations only add to the cinematic experience. I highly recommend Cat City.
Outstanding and highly recommended!!!
jvaughncomedy16 January 2009
This movie is well written, directed and acted and if you like lots of suspense, intrigue and twists and turns in the plot then Cat City is for you. From the jolting opening scene all of the way to the end you'll be riveted to the screen waiting to see which direction this film will take you next. In a world where millions of dollars are on the line, you learn you can trust no one and to expect the unexpected. Not only is the storyline and cast terrific, but the film work, i.e. scenery, etc. is outstanding as well. I would highly recommend viewing this movie. It looks like Brent Huff (writer and director) has himself yet another winner with Cat City.
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