The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz

The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz is an absurdist dark comedy released in 2000, directed by British independent filmmaker Ben Hopkins and starring Tom Fisher in the titular role, with Ian McNeice and Tony Maudsley also included in the diverse cast. The movie is a quirky and intriguing tale, offering a different view of the world combining elements of magical realism, surrealism, humour, and allegory in a distinctly British setting.

The film opens with an eerie cosmic event as a total solar eclipse approaches London. From a cavernous hole in the middle of a suburban field, Tomas Katz (Tom Fisher) emerges, a man-sized cat with human form, a mysterious entity with mystical powers who can, incredibly, switch identities with anyone merely by touching them. We are swiftly introduced to his supernatural ability to change form, slipping into the lives of various characters, each presenting a different sample of London's diverse populace.

Among those whom he encounters is an obsessive-compulsive bureaucrat named Dave, convincingly portrayed by Ian McNeice known for his work in TV series like 'Doctor Who'. Dave operates an underground control room, where he keeps a vigilant eye on every aspect of the city aiming to deal with any potential chaos. Dave's life is characterized by order and routine, while Tomas Katz represents unpredictability and chaos.

Other characters encountered by the shape-shifting Tomas Katz provide a snapshot of London's multicultural and unique life. These characters range from a blind prophetess predicting the end of the world, a psychotic taxi driver, a disillusioned police officer, to a suicidal old man living in a gasometer. The way that Katz gradually takes on these identities gives an intriguingly bizarre yet humorous twist to the storyline.

Tomas Katz is also pursued by an antagonist, PC Hot Fuzz played by Tony Maudsley, an inept yet dedicated law enforcement officer whose objective is to maintain order and control in the face of increasing anarchy. The simplistic nature of the antagonistic pursuit provides several comic relief moments.

Throughout the film, the narrative switches between evocative and absurdly comical sequences. The plot is laced with prophetic turns, satirical commentary, and an inexplicit exploration of existentialism, demanding the audience's active engagement. Fisher’s versatile impersonations contrast with McNeice's consistent and sedentary character, creating an intriguing tension that grips the viewer’s attention from start to finish.

Shot in high contrast black and white, the film also makes innovative use of animation and a layered soundtrack to deepen the dreamlike, chaotic mood set by the unpredictable and strange nature of the storyline. Capturing London's eccentric, busy, and diverse atmosphere, every shot and sound bite builds a sense of isolation and dread juxtaposed with wry humour.

The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz is more than a mere cinematic experience. It delivers an offbeat exploration of existence and reality, encouraging viewers to question their perceptions of the mundane and dive into a world of fantasy, comedy, and rebuke. The film purposefully avoids providing any rational explanation for Tomas Katz's existence or his mission, leaving the audience to draw conclusions and stimulating their curiosity to the very end.

Both actors Tom Fisher and Ian McNeice provide sterling performances. Fisher’s performance stands out in its flexibility and ludicrousness, while McNeice is steadfast and meticulous, delivering a touch of British dry humor.

In summary, The Nine Lives of Tomas Katz is a cinematic trip into the unusual, underscored by dark comedic tones and farcical existential questioning. This movie goes beyond the boundaries of traditional cinema, venturing into a surreal, chaotic, and uncharted territory. It's a film that may not resonate with everyone, but for those who appreciate the bizarre, who like to laugh, ponder, and be absorbed by mind-bending metaphorical puzzles, it's a must-watch. It certainly stands out as a unique piece of independent filmmaking in the new millennium.