Intro to "Gay Purr-ee""Gay Purr-ee" is an animated musical movie launched in 1962, directed by Abe Levitow and including the voice talents of Judy Garland, Robert Goulet, Red Buttons, and others. The film was borne from the cooperation of skilled people, with a script by Dorothy Jones and Chuck Jones and music by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, popular for their work on "The Wizard of Oz" in which Garland likewise starred. "Gay Purr-ee" stands apart for being UPA (United Productions of America) studio's very first feature-length production, as they carved their distinct niche in the animation landscape, which at that time was controlled by Disney.
The Story and PlotThe plot of "Gay Purr-ee" unfolds following the life of a female cat named Mewsette, who leaves her rural home in pursuit of enjoyment in 1890s Paris ("Gay Purr-ee"). Voiced by Judy Garland, Mewsette dreams of the sophistication and allure of the city life, finding her rural existence dull in contrast. Her sweetheart, Jaune-Tom, voiced by Robert Goulet, and his good friend Robespierre, voiced by Red Buttons, triggered on a quest to discover her after she departs.
As Mewsette arrives in Paris, she comes across the smooth-talking feline Meowrice, who promises to make her an attractive star. Unbeknownst to her, Meowrice plans to offer Mewsette to an abundant American cat after grooming her for high society. Mewsette is then taken to the extravagant establishment of Madame Rubens-Chatte, where she is informed in the ways of a high-society feline, in a montage set to numerous of the film's musical numbers.
On the other hand, Jaune-Tom and Robespierre experience their own set of adventures and incidents as they look for Mewsette in Paris. The duo should deal with various barriers and navigate the sprawling city in hopes of reuniting with Jaune-Tom's cherished.
Animation and Music"Gay Purr-ee" is kept in mind for its unique and innovative animation design, which was influenced by the impressionist and post-impressionist art motions. This provided the film a creative visual that set it apart from other animations of the time. The distinct visual approach is particularly apparent in the way the city of Paris is portrayed, with dynamic colors and stylized designs that evoke the artistry of the area.
The music of the film is another emphasize, with songs composed by Harold Arlen and lyrics by E.Y. Harburg. Judy Garland's vocal performances imbue the film with a level of musicality that is unusual in animated features of the age. Notable tunes consist of "Little Drops of Rain", "Paris is a Lonely Town", and "Roses Red, Violets Blue", which carry psychological weight and contribute to the film's storytelling.
Themes and Reception"Gay Purr-ee" discuss themes of love, adventure, self-realization, and the threats of naiveté. Mewsette's journey talks to the desire for something more than one's ordinary circumstances and the temptations that come with chasing after dreams. The contrast in between rural life and the busy city life of Paris serves as the background for Mewsette's individual growth.
Upon its release, the movie got combined reviews, being both praised for its creative qualities and musical score, and slammed for its pacing and story. Nevertheless, as years have passed, "Gay Purr-ee" has seen a renewed gratitude for its unique contribution to the animated musical genre. It supplied audiences with an option to Disney's supremacy at the time and holds a location in the legacy of animated cinema for its blend of animation, story, and tune.
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