A review of the forgotten ’90s classic.
Background
The 1996 movie, The Truth About Cats and Dogs is a wonderful rom-com that displays the biases against modern women. Abby, played by Jeneane Garofolo, is too insecure to show the the guy she likes (Brian), played by Ben Chaplin, how she looks. So, she asks her new hot and sexy best friend, played by Uma Thurman, to pretend to be her. Just for a while….right? Directed by Michael Lehmann, The Truth About Cats and Dogs is one of the most fun movies I have seen.
Theme
Unlike many rom-coms that came out in the ’90s (Clueless, 10 Things I Hate About You, The Wedding Singer, etc.), The Truth About Cats and Dogs had a strong feminist message behind it. The film uses the contrast of its two main characters: Abby, (the smart, studious one), and Noel, (the attractive bimbo), to spread major themes regarding the societal pressures put on women. Not only is the feminist view shown in the loneliness of one girl centered around her physical insecurities but there are many wonderful monologues regarding modern women’s pressure to be pretty all the time.
The film also has scenes regarding men and their modern misogyny. The love interest, Ben, is conflicted. He can’t seem to decide whether or not he loves Abby or Noel. The irony in this is that the only thing he likes about Noel is her physical appearance. It is a sad truth that in modern society, many men would prefer a beautiful woman than one who can speak her mind.
Since this movie came out in the late 90s, a time when women were still being represented in the media as “dumb but pretty”, unconventional feminism may be part of why it isn’t regarded as a cult classic, like so many other ’90s rom-coms.
Dialogue
My favorite aspect of this movie is the dialogue. I found myself cracking up at all the one-liners! (What else can you expect from a stand-up comedian). The way Uma and Jeneane deliver their lines is just so spot on. They hit every beat and managed to make even the lamest jokes funny.
The more serious monologues were just as impressive. Even though they could have seemed out of place in such a comedic movie, the actors were able to stay perfectly in their witty character while delivering them, while still keeping the dramatic tones of the lines.
Relationships
I was extremely surprised at how accurately this movie was able to depict female friendships, having been written by a man. But the way Abby and Noel interacted with each other seemed so genuine. I found myself questioning if they were besties in real life! The way they called each other “bitch”, but in a friendly way), reminds me so much of how me and my best friend are. It was such a joy to watch Jeneane and Uma’s natural chemistry.
Conclusion
I was presently surprised by this movie. In all honesty, I started this movie expecting another shallow rom-com but came out having thoroughly enjoyed it. The Truth About Cats and Dogs is a witty, fun, feminist movie that I truly believe should be more highly regarded than it currently is. I recommend this film to anyone looking for a good time.