‘Cat in the Hat’ (2026) puts a new spin on Seuss

By Amelia Morris

A modern take on the famously beloved Dr. Seuss’ children’s book, this Cat in the Hat contributes a new perspective.

The movie begins with many parallels to the original story. Cat attempts to cheer up two young children on a cold, rainy day. He does so successfully but not without considerable damage.

After his task is complete and he has thoroughly made a mess of things, Cat returns to the headquarters of the Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration, where he works. Upon arrival, he is praised for the incredible work he did cheering those children up, until his bosses see the damage.

Now, Cat’s job is in danger. He has one last chance to make things right. For potentially his last assignment, he is awarded one the most difficult cases, Gabby. If Cat can avoid causing any damage and successfully cheer Gabby up, he can keep his job.

Gabby is facing the depths of middle school as her family moves to a brand new city. She leaves everything she has ever known to start fresh somewhere new. However, Gabby never wanted to leave. She misses being in band at her old school and her old routine.

Gabby’s mom and brother, Sebastian, are ecstatic about the move but Gabby could not be any less enthused. As it begins to rain, Gabby and Sebastian mope. Viewers cannot miss the parallels between  the current story and the original book. 

Amidst their mopefest, Cat magically appears, and begins his work. To avoid a mess, Cat borrows a compact time machine called “the go-backer” from work. This will allow Cat to cheer up the kids, make a mess and then magically clean it up after. However, the machine has unforeseen consequences that take Cat, the kids and their goldfish on an exciting adventure.

Overall, the movie is fun. There is nothing particularly groundbreaking about it, considering the film is a remake of a remake. Still, it is a cute story and would be a great watch for any young family.

The humor is spot on and well-timed. “Throw away” lines tend to get the biggest laughs from the audience. 

The animation has a glossed-over quality. It feels extremely modern, almost uncomfortably so. Everything has rounded edges and the scenes lack overall character. The animation style could stand to be more artistic given the source material.

The storyline is obviously inspired by the original book but the movie does just enough for it to be its own story. Yes, the parallels are numerous, but the story is interesting and adds its own spin. 

Scenes, settings and main characters are unique to this film. It is just enough for kids to grab onto what they are familiar with and run with the movie into a new story. 

Unlike the original story, the children have their own motivations due to their recent move. Gabby wants to help find the go-backer so she can go back to her old life. 

Waffles, the name bestowed upon the beloved goldfish, still carries the mantle of responsibility, voice of reason and realism from the book. He is easily the best character in the film.

Along the way, the characters learn valuable lessons about friendship, family and their own feelings. The wholesome message, while very blatant and in the audience’s face, is a valuable one for all ages. 

“Cat in the Hat” is an adventure for the whole family. It’s certainly not for everyone but it is not as awful as many were expecting. This movie was a like, but not a love.

“Cat and the Hat” is currently in theaters.

Amelia Morris is a sophomore journalism major and writer for Cedars A&E. She loves her dogs, music, reading and exploring nature.

Photos courtesy of Warner Bros.