Movie of the Week - A Shot in the Dark

This week’s movie is A Shot in the Dark (1964).

The comedy is the second film in the Pink Panther Series, starring Peter Sellers and directed by Blake Edwards, a team that worked so well together making some of the funniest films in cinema history (also see Return of the Pink Panther, The Pink Panther Strikes Again and The Party). The film features a fantastic score from Henry Mancini and very good work from cinematographer Christopher Challis and production designer Michael Stringer. The film is the most aesthetically well done and interesting of the series; the opening sequence alone is wonderful. Sellers has so many hilarious running and bit gags throughout, making the film just pure joy to watch. Sellers is just in top form in the film. It also introduces a number of series regulars including Herbert Lom, Burt Kwouk, Andre Maranne and Graham Stark. The rest of the cast is good as well, featuring Elke Sommer, George Sanders and Tracy Reed. What makes the film great is how well shot and staged it is, while maintaining and even heightening the gags from the first film. Peter Sellers is the star of the film, instead of a supporting character, and the comedy benefits from him getting to be the principal. The film is just hilarious. It is a must for comedy fans. Check out the trailer.

Available on DVD and to rent