I think the "Critics" must have been watching a different film. Or perhaps were unfamiliar with the stage show, or the original poems. The dancing was incredible - Stephen Macrae's "Skimbleshanks" routine was amazing. The sets and backdrops were really imaginative, and full of "cat" references. There were one or two uncomfortable moments, but the big ensemble pieces were great. I really liked the stage version, and I also liked this enough to watch it again.