A TALKING CAT!?! (2013)
“A Talking Cat!?!,” a 2013 family comedy directed by David DeCoteau, centers on Duffy, a sassy feline voiced by Eric Roberts, who possesses the unique ability to speak to humans—but only once per person. This direct-to-DVD film follows Duffy as he intervenes in the lives of two struggling single-parent families, aiming to unite them through his limited yet impactful conversations.
The story introduces Phil Barber (Johnny Whitaker), a wealthy, recently retired programmer trying to bond with his indifferent son, Chris (Justin Cone), who is more focused on tutoring his crush, Frannie (Alison Sieke). Meanwhile, Susan (Kristine DeBell), a caterer facing financial woes, juggles her business and her two children, the ambitious Tina (Janis Peebles) and her less-driven brother Trent (Daniel Dannas). Duffy stumbles into their lives, offering each family member tailored advice to address their personal dilemmas—Phil’s disconnect with Chris, Susan’s stress, and the kids’ sibling tensions.
Filmed on a modest $1 million budget, the movie unfolds primarily in two houses, with low production values evident in its amateurish effects—like the poorly animated mouth on Duffy—and Roberts’ noticeably detached voiceover, reportedly recorded in just 15 minutes. The plot builds to a climax when Duffy is hit by a car, an incident implied rather than shown, prompting a miraculous recovery that solidifies the families’ newfound unity. Through Duffy’s guidance, Phil and Susan connect romantically, and their children learn to appreciate each other’s strengths, culminating in a heartwarming, if predictable, resolution.
Despite its technical shortcomings and a reputation as a “so-bad-it’s-good” cult classic, “A Talking Cat!?! delivers a simple message about family, communication, and serendipitous connections, wrapped in a quirky, low-budget package that has charmed some viewers while bewildering others.
