Cats (2020) Plot Summary, Ending Explained & Timeline

In the shadowy streets of London, an enigmatic bag unexpectedly lands on the cobblestones, unveiling a graceful white cat named Victoria. This captivating feline soon draws the attention of a quirky band of cats known as the Jellicles. Led by Munkostrap (Dermot Mulroney), the group consists of colorful characters including Mr. Mistoffelees and Skimbleshanks, who gather around Victoria, eager to learn more about her.

As they engage in a spirited rendition of “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” Victoria learns about the Jellicle tribe’s fascinating customs and heritage. Despite their warm welcome, Victoria wrestles with her identity and is prompted by Munkostrap to reveal her true name, leading to an exhilarating performance of “The Naming of the Cats.” This ancient Jellicle tradition suggests that every cat carries multiple names, reflecting their complex nature.

The Jellicles invite Victoria to their elaborate Jellicle Ball, explaining through “The Invitation to the Jellicle Ball” that it’s a night for celebration and transformation, where one chosen cat will ascend to the mystical Heaviside Layer for a fresh beginning—a coveted gift known as the Jellicle choice. Intrigued, Victoria wonders about the competition and is whisked away by Munkostrap to witness the breathtaking performances.

Their first encounter is with Jennyanydots, a plump tabby who, during the day, enjoys a lazy existence but transforms into a dynamic force by night, as depicted in “The Old Gumbie Cat.” Alongside her labor-saving mice and cockroaches, she showcases her unique lifestyle, ensuring everything is immaculate in her surroundings.

However, the evening takes a turn when Rum Tum Tugger (Jason Kesser), the flamboyant and daring feline, takes the stage, propelling the Jellicles into an exciting performance that reverberates through the air with “Rum Tum Tugger.” His energy inspires a lively escapade that sends the cats scurrying through a milk bar in search of adventure.

As evening unfolds, the atmosphere becomes tense with the arrival of Grizabella (Brittany Curran), a once-proud cat now cast aside by the Jellicles. While many shun her, Munkostrap and Victoria share the poignant tale of her fall from grace, alluding to her past interactions with the villainous Macavity (Jason Kesser). Meanwhile, Macavity lurks menacingly, manipulating the Jellicles and drawing Jennyanydots away from her companions.

Amidst the unfolding chaos, Bustopher Jones (Nick Guerra), the jolly cat of considerable size, joins in on the scavenging escapades. But their exploration soon leads to Macavity’s cunning trap, resulting in Bustopher’s capture, alongside Jennyanydots, aboard a sinister ship captained by the fearsome Captain Growltiger.

Victoria’s path takes a twist as she wanders off and encounters Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer, two sly cat burglars. They invite her to partake in their nighttime mischief as they attempt to pilfer a house. Yet, trouble arises when Victoria finds herself ensnared behind a large vase. Fortunately, Mr. Mistoffelees bursts onto the scene, rescuing her with his quick thinking and magical prowess.

As the Jellicles gather to discover their fate, Old Deuteronomy makes an entrance, her wise eyes gleaming with knowledge. She serenades them with “Old Deuteronomy,” depicting her many lives. This pivotal moment ushers the Jellicle cats toward the height of their celebration, culminating in the long-anticipated Jellicle Ball. Grizabella, lingering at the edges, watches wistfully, yearning to reconnect.

Moved by her plight, Victoria delivers an evocative performance of “Beautiful Ghosts,” reminding Grizabella of the precious memories she holds dear. Old Deuteronomy predicts that Victoria is destined for great things within the Jellicle tribe.

Next, the stage is taken by Gus the Theater Cat (Ian McKellen), who enchants everyone with “Gus the Theater Cat,” recounting his unforgettable journey to fame. Supportively, Mr. Mistoffelees admires Gus’s theatrics, but their moment is cut short as Macavity attempts to kidnap both Gus and Skimbleshanks (Nick Guerra).

With the tension escalating, Bombalurina (Brittany Curran) maneuvers through the crowd, revealing Macavity’s treachery in a stunning display of catnip-laden allure. The Jellicles, alongside her, witness Macavity making a bold claim to Old Deuteronomy, insisting that he is the only cat left standing. Refusing to be swayed, Old Deuteronomy stands her ground, inciting Macavity to unleash dark magic to capture her instead.

As despair blankets the gathering, Victoria courageously appeals to Mr. Mistoffelees to unleash his magic. With raw determination and the Jellicles rallying behind him, he launches into the heartfelt “Mr. Mistoffelees,” sparking a much-needed uprising of hope. Feelings of triumph surge as Old Deuteronomy is restored, and the captured Jellicles joyfully reclaim their freedom.

However, with Grizabella’s sad return, the group falters, yet Victoria shows unparalleled compassion, reaching out to include her once more. Grizabella’s haunting ballad of “Memory” captures the collective hearts of the audience, echoing her poignant tale of trial and heartache.

Honoring her spirit, Old Deuteronomy names Grizabella the Jellicle choice, leading the cats in a jubilant chorus of “The Journey to the Heaviside Layer.” Grizabella ascends into the sky, finally liberated from her past, while Macavity’s greedy attempts to follow her end in failure.

As dawn breaks, Old Deuteronomy addresses the onlookers with “The Ad-dressing of the Cats,” imparting pearls of wisdom and reflecting on their whimsical journey. In the fading light, Mr. Mistoffelees and Victoria find solace in each other’s presence, their bond deepening as the cherished adventure concludes, and Grizabella’s spirit soars to a hopeful new beginning.