In a rather strange turn of events, Universal has notified thousands of theaters they will be receiving an updated version of Tom Hooper's “Cats.” The troubled film will be getting"some improved visual effects," according to a copy of the memo obtained by THR.
As you might suspect, this is a rather unorthodox move by the studio, but, again according to THR, this is being done at Hooper's request. This will only enhance the toxic buzz the film has gotten ever since being destroyed by critics and gaining a mediocre C+ CinemaScore from moviegoers. Its box-office prospects also look dim as “Cats” is expected to open with a pathetic $9 million intake by Sunday night. The film’s purported budget is said to be over $100 million …
Hooper hasn’t been shy in his assertion that he could not finish “Cats” on time for its December 16th premiere in NYC, the CGI-heavy film seems to have needed more tweaks, including some unfinished shots, like “missing fur” (as per THR).