Austin Butler has expressed high praise for a unique co-star in the upcoming film Caught Stealing. The actor, known for his roles in Elvis and Dune, shared his admiration for Tonic, the cat who plays Bud, calling the feline the ultimate scene stealer ahead of the film’s release on 29 August. Butler stars alongside Regina King, Zoe Kravitz, Matt Smith, Bad Bunny, Liev Schreiber, and Vincent D’Onofrio in this late 1990s-set crime caper.
The Cat’s Impact on Set and Performances
Talking at the film’s gala screening this week, Butler described Tonic as “so smart and so cute” and noted how the cat’s presence elevated the entire cast’s performance. Zoe Kravitz echoed this sentiment, praising the feline’s remarkable training. She said,
“Honestly, never had a problem. In fact, I think he was so well trained that he made everyone else stay on their game.”
Director Darren Aronofsky humorously compared Tonic to the esteemed actor Daniel Day-Lewis, calling him “just a remarkable creature” who
“totally in character all the time. Never steps out of character, he’s always a cat.”
Plot Overview and Character Roles
Caught Stealing is set in the late 1990s and centers on Hank Thompson, played by Butler, a former professional baseball player who takes on babysitting duties for Bud, the cat owned by Russ, a character portrayed by Matt Smith. This seemingly simple task soon pulls Hank into the complexities of New York City’s criminal underworld, creating a dynamic crime story filled with twists and energy reminiscent of the era. The film also features strong contributions from an ensemble cast, including Regina King and Vincent D’Onofrio.
Early Critical Reception and Anticipation
As the release date approaches, early reviews of Caught Stealing have started to circulate online, mostly with favorable responses. Critics describe the movie as an accessible and energetic crime caper that captures the spirit of the 1990s, with plenty of surprises throughout the storyline. It is also noted as one of director Darren Aronofsky’s most approachable works to date, broadening its appeal beyond his usual audience.
Significance of the Cat’s Role and Upcoming Release
With the unique attention on Tonic the cat, the film highlights how even unexpected performers can make a significant impact on storytelling and audience engagement. Austin Butler’s commendation of the feline co-star underscores the special element the cat brings to the film’s dynamic, captivating viewers and critics alike. Caught Stealing is set to premiere in cinemas on 29 August, promising audiences a fresh and entertaining entry into the crime genre.
