I enjoyed but never loved the Shrek films, and my favorite characters were the supporting ones used for comic relief: Donkey, and Puss in Boots.  I think it’s great that Puss gets his own movie.  The more cat movies the better, as far as I am concerned.  However, I wish they had chosen a different story to introduce the swarthy feline Catsanova.

Chris Miller’s film details Puss’s humble beginnings, and the path that eventually turns him into an outlaw of sorts, purr-loining jewels and baubles that catch his eye.  I like Kitty Softpaws, who seems a perfect match for Puss; their dancing scenes are funny and surprisingly stylish.  When dealing with all things feline, the story details and animation are right on target, and are often very funny, as when Puss laps up his drink in the bar.

Then there’s the whole fairy tale aspect, and Humpty Dumpty.  I understand why the filmmakers went in this direction (maintaining the same comic fairy tale tone as the Shrek films), but I didn’t care a whit about Humpty and could not trust that rotten egg. I would much rather have kept Puss and Kitty in their own adventure.  Even with a story that I really don’t care about, however, I still enjoy the film enough to recommend it.  There are plenty of rewards, especially for cat lovers and fans of Puss’ earlier appearances.  ✰ ✰ ✰.  29 Nov. 2011.