Cat People (1982): cast, story & where to watch
1982 · Film · ★ 6.1
Released in 1982, Cat People is a thriller and horror film directed by Paul Schrader, running about 118 minutes. “They are something more than lovers who are about to become something less than human.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. After years of separation, Irena and her minister brother, Paul, reunite in New Orleans in this erotic tale of the supernatural. When zoologists capture a wild panther, Irena is drawn to the cat -- and the zoo curator is drawn to her. Soon, Irena's brother will have to reveal the family secret: that when sexually aroused, they turn into predatory jungle cats.
Who’s in it. Cat People stars Nastassja Kinski as Irena Gallier, Malcolm McDowell as Paul Gallier, John Heard as Oliver Yates and Ruby Dee as Female, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.1/10, Cat People has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Criterion Channel and rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Cat People page.
If you liked it. Fans of Cat People tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Cat People (1982)?
- In US, Cat People is available to stream on Criterion Channel, and rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Cat People worth watching?
- Cat People holds an audience score of 6.1 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller and horror. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Cat People?
- Cat People stars Nastassja Kinski, Malcolm McDowell, John Heard, Ruby Dee and Ed Begley Jr..
- When was Cat People released?
- Cat People was released in 1982, with a runtime of about 118 minutes.