A 1990s action comedy set in New York
The action comedy Caught Stealing is set in New York’s East Village during the 1990s. Featuring an ensemble cast with Austin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, and Bad Bunny, the film blends humor and suspense. Yet, much of the spotlight is taken by Tonic, a Siberian cat who plays Bud, an essential character in the story.
Bud belongs to Russ, a Brit involved in questionable activities, played by Matt Smith. Before leaving for London, Russ asks his neighbor Hank —a former baseball player turned bartender, played by Butler— to look after the cat. What begins as a simple favor quickly escalates into chaos when criminals arrive in search of stolen money and mistake Hank for an accomplice.
Tonic’s role and training
Throughout filming, Tonic impressed both cast and crew with his composure and focus. Director Darren Aronofsky highlighted his professionalism, noting that the cat seemed eager to work once on set. Behind his success is trainer Melissa Millett, who has spent more than two decades preparing animals for film and live shows.
Millett rescued Tonic as a stray kitten in Ontario and has trained him using positive reinforcement techniques. His previous credits include Pet Sematary (2019) and Thanksgiving (2023), where he also demonstrated his adaptability and stage presence.
Stealing the spotlight
On set, Tonic had his own trailer, a dedicated green room, and multiple feline doubles. His confident demeanor even drew attention during outdoor shoots in New York. At the film’s premiere, he appeared in a leather jacket and a small convertible, becoming a favorite among photographers.
With his standout role in Caught Stealing, Tonic proves that even in a film filled with acclaimed actors, a cat can effortlessly steal the show.
