Imagine you love cats so much that you decide to create a compilation of their most hilarious moments from videos scattered across the internet. Now, picture this: you actually turn this passion into a profitable venture, and it evolves into a bustling film festival. This isn’t a figment of your imagination; this is the fascinating reality of the Cat Video Fest, which last year raised over one million dollars .
The Phenomenon of Cat Videos
Cats have established themselves as a genre of their own on the internet, one that shows no signs of falling out of style. Back in 2016, Will Braden took a leap of faith by curating a feature film showcasing adorable cat antics. The simple idea sparked without any particular motive other than sheer amusement. Thus, the inception of the Cat Video Fest took shape. This annual event screens various cat videos in theaters and serves a noble cause —donating a portion of the ticket revenue to shelters and animal welfare organizations . Originally launching in the United States and Canada, its astounding success has led to its expansion into various countries around the globe.
Cats and That’s It
Yes, cats and that’s it ! Viewers are treated to a delightful stream of various cats knocking things off tables, showing off peculiar poses, and engaging in mischievous activities—no narrative structure whatsoever—just a nonstop series of funny cat videos . In 2024, the film showcased a whopping 73 minutes of hilarious content. According to a Variety report, Braden curates around 15,000 cat videos each year, carefully selecting approximately 200 for the final movie.
The Job Behind the Scenes
“This is my full-time job. My business card literally states that I watch cat videos,” says Braden. While this certainly sounds like an enjoyable profession, it has its own set of challenges. A significant aspect involves obtaining the permissions to use the video content, which can be quite tedious. The selection process alone takes nearly a quarter of the year, and acquiring the necessary licenses demands an equally rigorous commitment. As the launch date approaches, the last quarter of the year involves a heavy focus on distribution and promotional activities. Interestingly, Braden humorously admits that his wife, a primary school teacher, earns significantly more than he does.
Profitability of Cat Video Fest
Details regarding revenue from the inaugural Cat Video Fest remain somewhat elusive, but we do know about the financial success it achieved in 2024. A recent Note to Shareholders revealed that the total revenue for the year reached $1,026,470 , with plans to donate $100,000 to shelters. Braden mentioned on a Reddit AMA that they guarantee a minimum donation of 10% from each ticket sale, with the figure sometimes exceeding that based on the location. While the remaining revenue’s allocation remains somewhat unspecified, it is known that significant portions go towards compensating the theaters where the films are screened. The 2025 festival kicks off tomorrow, with hopes of generating $1.2 million from ticket sales in the U.S. and Canada alone.
Image | Cat Video Fest
In a world increasingly captivated by *feline shenanigans *, the Cat Video Fest has effortlessly merged entertainment with philanthropy, creating a unique event that not only celebrates our love for cats but also significantly impacts the welfare of countless felines. The joyous experience of watching cat antics alongside fellow cat enthusiasts creates a sense of community, all while contributing to a greater cause. If you adore cat videos, this festival is undoubtedly worth a visit!