This immensely funny sequel to 'The Pink Panther' holds the rare novelty of being better than the original. In fact an intentional extension of the Pink Panther series, the film is based on a dissimilar play. However, It's hard not to see 'A Shot in the Dark' as the true foundation of the series. The film introduces two key characters: Commissioner Dreyfus, played by Herbert Lom, and Clousseau's Asian sidekick Cato.
Like the rest of the series, 'A Shot in the Dark' is full of humor. From physical comedy to hilarious bumblings to an underlying vista of satire, this one dwarfs the rest.
As for acting, Sellers is in top form at the peak of career. Never do I remotely question that it is Clouseau I am seeing and hearing; Sellers is never out of character. 23 year old Elke Sommer co-stars as Maria Gambrelli, a young maid accused of murder. She leaves little to squawk about in her acting, but has few meaningful lines; but convincing all the way. George Sanders, as millionaire Benjamin Ballon, gives his uniform best. Lastly, Herbert Lom as Dreyfus brings a hilarious second presence and sub-plot to the film and to the future series.
I laud this film and its excellent script for its comedy, its good acting, and its rewatchibility.
If you're looking for serious drama or action, don't look here. One cannot call 'A Shot in the Dark' anything more than a comedy, but that's more than enough for this reviewer.
8 / 10
Like the rest of the series, 'A Shot in the Dark' is full of humor. From physical comedy to hilarious bumblings to an underlying vista of satire, this one dwarfs the rest.
As for acting, Sellers is in top form at the peak of career. Never do I remotely question that it is Clouseau I am seeing and hearing; Sellers is never out of character. 23 year old Elke Sommer co-stars as Maria Gambrelli, a young maid accused of murder. She leaves little to squawk about in her acting, but has few meaningful lines; but convincing all the way. George Sanders, as millionaire Benjamin Ballon, gives his uniform best. Lastly, Herbert Lom as Dreyfus brings a hilarious second presence and sub-plot to the film and to the future series.
I laud this film and its excellent script for its comedy, its good acting, and its rewatchibility.
If you're looking for serious drama or action, don't look here. One cannot call 'A Shot in the Dark' anything more than a comedy, but that's more than enough for this reviewer.
8 / 10