The first film, A Street Cat Named Bob, melted our hearts almost immediately. The relationship between James Bowen and his cat Bob really resonated with audiences. The film and book followed James Bowen who attempts to turn his life around after taking in a stray cat. James is haunted by his past that has been consumed by his heroin addiction and past traumas. However, after meeting Bob his life gradually improves. The pair become an inseparable duo. A duo that brings nothing by joy. Not only does James become a tourist hotspot thanks to Bob, but he no longer feels the need to rely on his medication. Thanks to Bob, James is free to enjoy a stable life.
The first film ended on a high note. Demon’s were fought, relationships were mended, and the bond between James and Bob was stronger than ever. When a sequel was announced, I was honestly surprised that there was more to their story. But I think this festive treat, directed by Charles Martin Smith and based off another book by Bowen, really helps to illuminate the continuous struggles associated with homelessness. It also helps cement the fact that James, played by Luke Treadaway, was not out of the woods when his popularity began to soar. It wasn’t a case of him becoming an instant hit on social media and all of his problems suddenly evaporating into thing air as though they never existed. Far from it. James still had struggles.
The tale begins at Christmas at a fancy publication party celebrating Bowen’s literary success. After leaving the party, James tells a young homeless lad a story. The film takes us back to a particularly grim Christmas that tested the relationship between James and Bob and even threatened to tear the two apart.
Best pals, James and Bob
Now, it doesn’t exactly sound like your typical Christmas movie. But there is no denying that this sequel is equally as good-hearted and uplifting as its predecessor. While the stakes are considerably smaller in comparison to most films, including the first film, this is a film that can just be easily enjoyed. You don’t have to worry about shocking twists, revelations or heartbreaking scenes. The most shocking thing that transpires involves leaving a gas heater on all day. Oh the drama. This is simply a movie that makes you feel warm on the inside. If I had to compare it to any film, my mind instantly thinks of Eddie the Eagle. Low stakes but a very uplifting story that has an incredibly warming ending.
I even found myself welling up towards the end of the movie. A Christmas Gift From Bob really evokes the spirit of Christmas and I think it is something that we desperately need reminding of. At Christmas we need to stick together (socially distanced, of course), be kind, and be considerate towards those who may be struggling. Mentally, financially, any form of struggling must be met with consideration and passion rather than spite or aggression.
Despite the relationship between James and Bob being on the line, audiences can expect a very sincere film that reminds us that while there are things that will attempt to drag us down as though we are being weighed down by Jacob Marley’s shackles, there is still plenty of good that can shine through. That ‘good’ will often surprise us and can sometimes come from strangers, rivals, and even a ginger cat.
It is incredibly hard to critique a film that is so pure and heart-warming. At the end of the day I finished watching the sequel almost in tears and with a warm bubbly feeling inside. Don’t expect action, don’t expect gripping twists. Just expect a smile to grow on your face as the credits roll. If you need a film to entertain the kids or a film to smile at. Look no further. A Christmas Gift From Bob is endearing, thoughtful, and sweet. It is the feel-good movie than I feel many us of need during this time of such uncertainty.
A Christmas Gift From Bob is available to rent on digital platforms from November 6th. Make sure you give it a watch and be ready to feel more Christmassy after doing so.
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