Movie review by Dennis D. McDonald
FELIDAE from 1994 is a gorgeously illustrated German feature length hand drawn cartoon. It tells a violent adult oriented tale about murder, genetic selection, and religious fundamentalism. Its characters are well drawn and voiced, its action is swift, and its urban setting is meticulously and colorfully illustrated.
And, all its main characters are cats. Lots of cats, and different types of cats. There are chases, shocking scenes of death and dismemberment, violent bloody fights, and frequent references to sex.
Overall, though, Felidae is a murder mystery. How the mystery is unravelled propels the movie's plot. Surprising facts emerge along the way that are brought together at the end, perhaps a bit too neatly. But I was consistently impressed with the drawing, editing, and character movements. The rooftop chases are well done with crisp editing and swooping "camera angles" that almost make the viewer forget this is hand drawn animation. Recommended - but not for the little ones.
Review copyright (c) 2026 by Dennis D. McDonald
