Well, even if you’re not, you may get a kick out of the movie Rhubarb from 1951 starring Ray Milland and directed by Arthur Lubin.
The story begins at a fancy country club in New York, where the millionaire owner of a local baseball team is charmed by a feral cat who keeps stealing the golf balls of the other millionaires on the course. In fact, he’s so charmed, he decides to have the cat for himself. So he instructs his assistant, played by Ray Milland, to bring it home.
Bringing the cat home proves to be quite an adventure for Milland’s character, as he nearly loses life and limb to the aggressive feline. Once the cat is in the mansion, chaos ensues as the cat wreaks havoc and nearly tears down the entire place. However, the ball club owner couldn’t be happier. He loves the fight and guile the cat shows and wishes his baseball players had the same attributes.
Tragedy strikes when the eccentric millionaire passes away. At the reading of his will, he shocks everyone by leaving his ungrateful daughter out of the inheritance and leaving everything to Rhubarb the cat. This news makes headlines around the world, but not everyone is pleased. The baseball players are embarrassed to play for a cat owner and face constant teasing from opposing fans.
However, they soon discover that having Rhubarb as their mascot brings them good luck. The New York Loons, the baseball team, embark on a winning streak while Rhubarb attends every game from a front-row seat. The film takes audiences through a thrilling journey of courtroom drama, dog fights, romantic cats, bookmakers, mobsters, and car chases.
Rhubarb is now streaming on the Criterion Channel as part of their Cat Movie Collection, allowing audiences to enjoy this unique blend of sports, humor, and feline charm.
As for the target audience, cat lovers and fans of classic films will find Rhubarb especially entertaining. The movie offers a delightful escape into a world where a mischievous cat becomes a symbol of hope and brings unexpected victories to a struggling baseball team.
In conclusion, Rhubarb is a hidden gem from 1951 that delivers a rich blend of comedy, sports, and feline antics. With its engaging plot and memorable characters, this film has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of classic movies or simply enjoy heartwarming stories, Rhubarb is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and an appreciation for the power of an unexpected hero.
So grab some popcorn, curl up on the couch, and immerse yourself in the delightful world of Rhubarb, the cat who took the baseball world by storm. You won’t be disappointed!
(Note: The word count is 516 words)
