Not having seen the first instalment of this movie series, I come at it with no expectations. Overall, I agree with most of the reviewers on here: it is a touching story (based on real-life, which is always a plus). I enjoyed watching the relationship between James (played by Luke Treadaway) and Bob (played by Bob the Cat), their interaction and the way James bonded with Bob. I found myself getting quite upset (maybe even shedding a tear or two) when, for example, Bob got sick. So, for me, at least, the film engaged me, it pulled me in. I did think that some elements of the plot were underdeveloped, the main one being, the shop owner/friend who started the petition. I think this was rather rushed. The acting was strong. Bob is played by a cat, so I will avoid critiquing Bob's performance here. But at the very least, Bob was cute, especially in his Christmas outfit, which is one of the adorable element to this film of course. Luke Treadaway's performance was pretty good. Keep in mind that he is trying to play someone in real-life as opposed to a fictional character; his performance was believable, I believe. The supporting cast was strong with some heartfelt performances. I did not find the film very uplifting in the sense that I thought things were going to get easier (but again, I did not see the first instalment of this series); it felt more to me like, James is going to struggle but he knows he has Bob and others to help him survive. I am not sure that is uplifting in a traditional sense ....but maybe it is for some. Overall, it is a touching story with some quality performances and an adorable cat, of course. If you are a cat lover and looking for a family holiday movie, then this one is for you.
37 Reviews
NICE STORY.( still Not as good as the first one)
chloegalley21 December 2020
A Gift from Bob is a 2020 Christmas biography film and sequel to the 2016 film, A street cat name Bob. The storyline is about strength, friendship inspiration and teaches people about the meaning of Christmas. A lovely light hearted film to watch especially if you are a cat lover. No way as good as the first film but still okay to watch. Good acting and is very well directed. Something to watch on a Sunday evening with the family. I thought it was okay to watch and enjoyed it myself. This movie is currently streaming on Prime right now for free. Based on a true story
Worth watching for Bob and Bob alone
Jeremy_Urquhart23 October 2021
So the story is ridiculously slight, and by the time it got to the film's second half, and I realised what was happening/going to happen for the rest of its runtime, I was sort of like, "that's it?"
Also, most characters in this act a bit like NPCs in a video game, interacting with and existing around the protagonist and his cat.
But thanks to that cat, this movie is actually mostly redeemed. Everything not Bob-related is a bit flat and overly sentimental, but Bob was such a loveable, adorable cat (and he gets a little Christmas outfit in this!) that much of the movie is watchable thanks to his chemistry, and interactions with the film's main character.
The fact he passed away the year this came out does add an extra layer of emotion to the film that it otherwise might not have- while the movie's not great, it is great to have a way to see Bob play himself one last time.
If you don't like cats, though, this probably won't be very enjoyable for you.
Also, most characters in this act a bit like NPCs in a video game, interacting with and existing around the protagonist and his cat.
But thanks to that cat, this movie is actually mostly redeemed. Everything not Bob-related is a bit flat and overly sentimental, but Bob was such a loveable, adorable cat (and he gets a little Christmas outfit in this!) that much of the movie is watchable thanks to his chemistry, and interactions with the film's main character.
The fact he passed away the year this came out does add an extra layer of emotion to the film that it otherwise might not have- while the movie's not great, it is great to have a way to see Bob play himself one last time.
If you don't like cats, though, this probably won't be very enjoyable for you.
RIP BOB
stephenstephenbyrne31 December 2020
In a regular year I'd probably dismiss this as schmaltzy hallmark nonsense but it is indeed the year of our lord 2020 and I am in desperate need of anything that makes me feel optimistic about the world. The film also importantly features a very cute cat (which is my kryptonite) so no apologies for enjoying this.
Overly preachy and formulaic
r96sk7 January 2021
Found this one overly preachy and formulaic.
It's good to see Luke Treadaway return as James, as well as Bob the Cat; before his sad passing. However, everything else felt too forced in 'A Christmas Gift from Bob'. The plot is boring and predictable, with most of the dialogue feeling like it's telling us about issues rather than showing us; which is the opposite of the 2016 film.
Away from Treadaway, who is solid, there aren't any exceptional support casts - though I did like Phaldut Sharma's Moody. It misses Ruta Gedmintas and Joanne Froggatt, though I can understand that they might not have fitted with the story that they went for here; especially Froggatt.
It does have some sweet scenes still, as well as the expected cat cuteness. Unfortunately, it just didn't work due to the earlier mentioned problems - at least in my opinion. It's nothing terrible, granted.
It's good to see Luke Treadaway return as James, as well as Bob the Cat; before his sad passing. However, everything else felt too forced in 'A Christmas Gift from Bob'. The plot is boring and predictable, with most of the dialogue feeling like it's telling us about issues rather than showing us; which is the opposite of the 2016 film.
Away from Treadaway, who is solid, there aren't any exceptional support casts - though I did like Phaldut Sharma's Moody. It misses Ruta Gedmintas and Joanne Froggatt, though I can understand that they might not have fitted with the story that they went for here; especially Froggatt.
It does have some sweet scenes still, as well as the expected cat cuteness. Unfortunately, it just didn't work due to the earlier mentioned problems - at least in my opinion. It's nothing terrible, granted.
A Christmas Gift from Bob
jboothmillard13 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
A Street Cat Named Bob is one of the best feel-good movies of the last few years, and I was pleasantly surprised to find out there was going to be a sequel, but it is unfortunate that tragedy, and the COVID-19 pandemic, would strike before its release, directed by The Untouchables actor Charles Martin Smith (Air Bud). Basically, James Bowen (Luke Treadaway ) and his best friend and now constant companion, Bob the Cat (himself), are attending a publishers event following the release of James's latest book. After the event, he sees homeless young man Ben (Stefan Race) being tormented officer Leon (Tim Plester), who James recognises from his past. James buys Ben something to eat and starts to tell the story of a Christmas he spent with Bob whilst living in his flat with paid electricity. During the Christmas holiday, he and Bob were just about getting by in Covent Garden, from selling The Big Issue, and occasional busking. But Leon, working for the council, has a dislike for homeless people and is determined to get rid of James somehow. While fellow council worker Officer Jarvis (Aretha Ayeh) is sympathetic towards James, she also knows the laws concerning the health and safety of the animal, and there are issues concerning the well-being of the cat. One day, Bob is injured by a dog, and is taken to a nearby charity, supplying food and furniture, run by Bea (Kristina Tonteri-Young), who points him to vet Becky (Daisy Badger). As time goes by, James struggles to make the money he needs to keep his electricity running, and he is constantly approached by the officers who may be threatening to take Bob away. One day, after finishing work, James helps a stranger (Anna Wilson-Jones) after she is bumped into, she says she will come to buy a magazine or watch him play some time. Meanwhile, James and Bea spend many times together, they have a strong friendship, that may be developing into something closer. There is a point when there is an altercation between James and Leon, and when James goes to see Bea afterwards, she is angry because he does not notice that the charity was vandalised. Denise (Poppy Roe) is the head of the council department for animal welfare and oversees officers Leon and Jarvis. She knows of the altercation because of an online video; she wants evidence, going "by the book", that James cannot properly take care of Bob before she can authorise the cat to be taken. Officer Jarvis questions Bea about James and his caring for Bob, she stands by them and says that they need each other. James's other friends who offer him support and keep his spirits up include local shop owner Moody (EastEnders' Phaldut Sharma), London transport worker Anika (Nina Wadia), and cheerful passer-by Irene (Joanne Zorian). Whilst having a drink with fellow Big Issue sellers, James confronts Mick (Celwin Jones), who he suspects reported him to animal welfare. Mick assures him he had nothing to do with it; he tells James that looking after Bob gives him a purpose, he also mentions his daughter who he longs to see again. One day, when returning home, Bob eats off food from the bin, and a short time later he becomes very badly ill. Moody and Bea offer James help for Bob to get better, but James feels he is not fit to look after the cat and comes to the decision that he will allow Bob to be taken away. Moody realises James's situation, so he sets up an online campaign for people to show their support. On Christmas Eve, James is delighted when Bob recovers, but he has not changed his mind. They go for a walk together, and James is astonished by the amount of people who show up with presents and cards for him and Bob. Mick also visits him; he has reunited with his adult daughter Maisie (Louisa Corr) and his grandson Michael. Officer Jarvis approaches and mentions evaluating his case, she tells him that the council have received hundreds of letters, notes, cards, and emails, and that there is an online petition of 800 signatures in less than 24 hours. She tells James that will not be taking Bob away, that the charity Inspirational Animals want him and Bob to be paid ambassadors, and Bea shows up in time to confirm that James gets to keep Bob. Later that night, James is reunited with the stranger, celebrity chef Arabella Harewood (clearly inspired by Nigella) who repays him for his kindness and offers to help him any time. James spends Christmas Day with Bob, Bea, and Ben, they watch Arabella on television, broadcasting from Bea's charity, which includes Bob biscuits. Also starring Stephen McCole as Mark, and cameos by Jacqueline Wilson, and the real James Bowen as a market trader selling the book. Once again Treadaway is terrific as the sympathetic ex-drug addict trying to get by and stay with his beloved friend, and again there are some good supporting cast members, but Bob is the star, a wonderfully adorable cat; the film is dedicated to his memory, as he tragically passed away (hit by a car) after the film was completed. I will admit that parts of this follow-up feel almost like a re-tread of what we saw previously, with authorities keeping an eye on the main character, and it only just keeps up the feel-good factor, but the characters, the Christmas element and of course Bob keep you watching, an enjoyable seasonal biographical drama. Good!
Wonderful
owenthomas-8835110 November 2020
A Christmas Gift from Bob
Prismark1017 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
A Christmas Gift from Bob is a movie in search of a plot.
The sequel to A Street Cat Named Bob starts with James Bowen (Luke Treadaway) at a book event after the publication of his successful story. He meets Jacqueline Wilson who tells him of the perils of writing a follow up.
A meeting with a rough sleeper, it allows James to recall a previous Christmas experience with Bob.
An overzealous animal welfare officer wants Bob to be taken away from James. The council argues that Bob may not be safe on the streets with James . The locals rally round including his local shopkeeper who starts an online campaign to keep Bob and James together.
This is a thin story where you have to believe that the council cares more about a stray cat who has a loving owner, than the thousands of homeless people including kids in its patch.
There is also a side plot where James tries to raise funds for a free veterinary service that had a break in. They helped look after Bob when he got injured. James manages to get help from a celebrity cook.
It is a life affirming but weak movie that again highlights the plight of the homeless. Bob sadly died after this movie was completed, he was run over by a car. This movie stands as a tribute to Bob.
The sequel to A Street Cat Named Bob starts with James Bowen (Luke Treadaway) at a book event after the publication of his successful story. He meets Jacqueline Wilson who tells him of the perils of writing a follow up.
A meeting with a rough sleeper, it allows James to recall a previous Christmas experience with Bob.
An overzealous animal welfare officer wants Bob to be taken away from James. The council argues that Bob may not be safe on the streets with James . The locals rally round including his local shopkeeper who starts an online campaign to keep Bob and James together.
This is a thin story where you have to believe that the council cares more about a stray cat who has a loving owner, than the thousands of homeless people including kids in its patch.
There is also a side plot where James tries to raise funds for a free veterinary service that had a break in. They helped look after Bob when he got injured. James manages to get help from a celebrity cook.
It is a life affirming but weak movie that again highlights the plight of the homeless. Bob sadly died after this movie was completed, he was run over by a car. This movie stands as a tribute to Bob.
Did exactly what I'd hoped
mckaymalcolm13 December 2020
If you liked the first one, then you'll enjoy this just as much.
Theres loads of things to be critical about if you wished to be - but it's a christmas movie so just enjoy.
There's ham acting, some cringeworthy performances and a pantomime villain you want to shout "booo" to- but that's what's so endearing and fun about this film.
Yes, it's pretty unsophisticated- but it has a charm that makes my family and I feel good -and that's all the Christmas medicine I need thankyou very much.
A beautiful poignant movie
staree-1866619 December 2020
We watched this movie this afternoon . I think this is a beautiful must watch movie . I loved reading whole story of Bob and James . I think I cried most of the way through , but it has such an amazingly happy ending . Luke Treadaway is brilliant as James and the amazing Bob , second to none as himself . I think knowing that Bob passed away in June made it even sadder for me and the fact that I never got to meet the most amazing cat I have ever heard of . I give this movie 10/10 .
Disappointing
michael-015295 December 2020
This movie was such a disappointment to me. Whoever wrote the script has clearly never read the books. An improbable storyline, they have sought to create a feel-good movie at the cost of any credibly. Extremely cringeworthy, I couldn't wait for the movie to end.
Great movie
studykomik19 November 2020
Pointless Sequel
breakingaway2828 December 2020
The first film, although no classic, was decent, the book was even better. This, however, almost felt like a remake, not really sure what the point of it was. It's not really telling us much we don't know already.
Luke Treadaway plays the sympathetic James once again, and does so really well, this being the only highlight in a mainly drab and predictable movie. 5/10
Luke Treadaway plays the sympathetic James once again, and does so really well, this being the only highlight in a mainly drab and predictable movie. 5/10
Still Inspiring
HabibieHakim12328 November 2020
"This movie is still inspiring, still beautiful, and still entertaining, i really like the first one and this one have a same energy like the first one, it's very nice tribute to Bob himself who sadly died this year, Luke Treadaway still have the character, and in the end this movie still makes me goosebump in the end same like the first one, this is a very good christmas movie, and very inspiring movie, i recommended"
Disappointed
nigellewis-0286423 December 2020
A Very Simply Told And Moving Story
daviddunn-9065315 December 2020
Having seen the first movie I was keen to see the sequel. The first one was a beautifully told story of a homeless man,James, an addict, who found redemption in a stray cat named Bob.
This sequel is told equally well. Its a very simple storyline, with a few pantomine moments, but nevertheless it has powerful messages. The level of feeling between James and the cat is very deep, and he is always aware how important Bob has been in his recovery, giving him the strength to start a new life, and a better one for Bob too.. The film was all the more moving given that we knew Bob has passed away not long after making this film. RIP Bob.
Shocker even my cats went to the other room.
Chrispearce26 January 2021
Predictable
cekadah26 November 2020
As captivating as the plot wants to be it is positively boring and predictable!
Bob has about as much personality as limp celery - and yes - I realize it's a cat and cats do cat things.
It's the same old story - James is doing his best to get-by in life with his pet Bob but the animal welfare is out to make James life sorrowful. You've seen this story dozens of times!
Bob has about as much personality as limp celery - and yes - I realize it's a cat and cats do cat things.
It's the same old story - James is doing his best to get-by in life with his pet Bob but the animal welfare is out to make James life sorrowful. You've seen this story dozens of times!
movie with positive energy
leeanderd17 November 2020
Poor sequel
schoiuk13 November 2020
Lovely sequel to the first film.
marymullan-86-97055813 December 2020
So bad
archiemcdonald-6961211 December 2020
If you are looking to watch a Christmas movie, then this is not the one to watch. The production quality and acting was so bad I could literally use a three year old babie to be the main character and it would do a better job. The plot was horrible and boring I almost fell asleep. There is not much excitement in a homeless man's life and this completely sums it up. Unless you want to experience a homeless man's life, this is so bad and such a waste of your time.
we love you Bob
tonyvit1916 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This movie make me cry Bob is a God sent from heaven i love the way how james and bob struggle but they stay strong together you will never forgotten bob you always in our heart your legacy lives on forever .thank you for sharing your life how my daughter realize she lucky no matter how hard life is james and bob survive
god bless james and bob for all charities you help
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