Ratcatcher (1999)

Kernel Score: 78% · 234 ratings · Rated NR

Genres: Drama

Released: 1999-11-12

Runtime: 94 minutes

Where to watch Ratcatcher

  • Stream: HBO Max
  • Rent: Fandango At Home
  • Buy: Fandango At Home

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

James Gillespie is 12 years old. The world he knew is changing. Haunted by a secret, he has become a stranger in his own family. He is drawn to the canal where he creates a world of his own. He finds an awkward tenderness with Margaret Anne, a vulnerable 14 year old expressing a need for love in all the wrong ways, and befriends Kenny, who possesses an unusual innocence in spite of the harsh surroundings.

Ratcatcher parents' guide: ages 13+

Parents need to know that Ratcatcher is a somber drama about a boy haunted by a secret in 1970s Glasgow poverty.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Lynne Ramsay

Cast

  • William Eadie as James
  • Tommy Flanagan as Da
  • Mandy Matthews as Ma
  • Michelle Stewart as Ellen
  • Lynne Ramsay Jr. as Anne Marie
  • Leanne Mullen as Margaret Anne
  • John Miller as Kenny
  • Jackie Quinn as Mrs Quinn
  • James Ramsay as Mr Quinn
  • Anne McLean as Mrs Fowler

Ratcatcher FAQ

Is Ratcatcher good?

Ratcatcher has a 78% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 234 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Ratcatcher?

In the US you can stream Ratcatcher on HBO Max and rent it from Fandango At Home.

Is Ratcatcher OK for kids?

Ratcatcher is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 13+. Parents need to know that Ratcatcher is a somber drama about a boy haunted by a secret in 1970s Glasgow poverty.

What movies are like Ratcatcher?

If you liked Ratcatcher, try My Name Is Joe, Sweet Sixteen, The Lovely Bones and The Tragedy of Macbeth.