’10 Lives’ Review: A Heartfelt Feline Story

Among the diverse array of films showcased at Sundance 2024, ’10 Lives’ stands out as one of the few animated treasures. The story revolves around Beckett, a pampered cat voiced by Mo Gilligan, who learns the true meaning of love and loyalty through a series of unexpected adventures.

Directed and written by Christopher Jenkins, ’10 Lives’ follows Beckett’s journey after losing his ninth life. Rescued and adored by Rose, voiced by Simone Ashley, Beckett discovers that his afterlife isn’t quite what he expected. With its heartwarming exploration of the bond between humans and their pets, the film strikes a chord with audiences of all ages.

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Featuring an ensemble cast including Zayn Malik and Bill Nighy, ’10 Lives’ delves into the depths of pet-owner relationships with charm and sincerity. Beckett’s character, distinguishable by his heterochromous eyes, embodies a range of emotions that resonate deeply with viewers. From jealousy to love and protection, his animated expressions capture the essence of his journey towards selflessness.

As Rose’s priorities shift due to her work commitments, Beckett grapples with feelings of loneliness and abandonment. His attempts to rid himself of Rose’s lab partner, Larry, reflect his struggle to adapt to a life beyond his desires. Through these challenges, Beckett learns valuable lessons about sacrifice and companionship.

While ’10 Lives’ follows a familiar narrative trajectory, its emotional depth and relatable themes elevate it above standard pet-centric stories. Director Christopher Jenkins explores the complexities of pet ownership, posing thought-provoking questions about empathy and understanding.

Mo Gilligan delivers a standout performance as the voice of Beckett, infusing the character with humour and vulnerability. Simone Ashley, known for her role in ‘Bridgerton’ Season 2, brings depth to the character of Rose, complemented by Zayn Malik’s musical contributions.

Despite minor flaws in pacing and narrative cohesion, ’10 Lives’ remains a touching portrayal of love and devotion. Its poignant finale is sure to leave audiences emotionally moved, celebrating the enduring bond between humans and their beloved pets.