Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Starring: Kerry Fox, Alexia Keogh, Karen Fergusson
Directed by: Jane Campion

Cat Out of the Bag Alert!  This review contains some spoilers for this film!

Synopsis: The autobiographical story of poet Janet Frame and her struggles growing up in New Zealand (Kerry Fox) during the 1920’s and 30’s.  Finding her ideas unsettling, it is strongly suggested she check herself into a mental institution where she stays for eight years.  Eventually she finds her identity and voice as a successful writer.

Purr Blurs: When Janet is a child (played by Alexia Keogh) she shares a bed with her sisters.  One night they are awakened by the noise of their parents scrambling during an emergency.  A tabby cat can be seen sitting on their bed and then scurries away.

Later Janet as a teenager (now played by Karen Fergusson) meets a girl with Spanish roots.  As they visit with her Janet is carrying what appears to be the same tabby cat in her arms.

Finally as an adult (and played by Kerry Fox), Janet visits Spain and has a romantic affair with an American teacher and self-proclaimed poet.  After their first romantic evening together she walks down to the waterside where he is sitting surrounded by many cats who gather around them hoping for some food.

Final Mewsings: A full life includes cats at every age.

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