Disney+ continues to be a treasure trove for fans of nostalgic films, and now, a hidden gem from Christina Ricci’s career is available to stream. The 1997 remake of That Darn Cat—a quirky, family-friendly mystery—has quietly made its way onto the platform, offering audiences a chance to rediscover this often-overlooked Disney classic.
A modernized take on the 1965 film of the same name, That Darn Cat stars Ricci as Patti Randall, a sarcastic and rebellious teen whose pet cat, DC, unwittingly becomes the key to solving a high-stakes kidnapping case. When DC returns home with an unexpected clue—a watch bearing a cryptic message—Patti teams up with an eccentric FBI agent, played by Doug E. Doug, to crack the case. What follows is a fast-paced adventure filled with humor, hijinks, and the kind of lighthearted suspense that made Disney’s live-action films of the era so memorable.
The original That Darn Cat! (1965) was a hit for Disney, featuring Hayley Mills as the sharp-witted Patti and Dean Jones as the befuddled FBI agent. A product of Disney’s golden age of live-action comedy, the film was packed with slapstick humor and an engaging crime-solving adventure, earning a lasting place in the hearts of classic Disney fans. While the 1997 remake updated the story for a 90s audience—with a more rebellious teen protagonist and edgier humor—it maintained the core premise of a mischievous feline leading the way to uncover a mystery.
Though the remake wasn’t a major box office success upon its release, That Darn Cat has since found a following among fans of Ricci’s 90s work. At the time, Ricci was fresh off her acclaimed performances in Casper and The Addams Family, cementing her status as one of the decade’s most recognizable young stars. Her portrayal of Patti blends her signature wit with the film’s playful, detective-style narrative, making it an entertaining watch for both longtime fans and new viewers alike.
With its mix of comedy, mystery, and 90s nostalgia, That Darn Cat is a rare Disney remake that deserves a second look. Now streaming on Disney+, it’s the perfect time to revisit—or experience for the first time—this fun, feline-fueled caper.
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