"The Return of the Pink Panther" is a 1975 comedy film and the fourth installment in The Pink Panther series. It stars Peter Sellers, who returned to the role of Inspector Clouseau for the first time since "A Shot in the Dark" after having declined to reprise the role in "Inspector Clouseau" (1968). The movie revolves around Inspector Jacques Clouseau being put on the case when the Pink Panther diamond is stolen, with the Phantom's trademark glove being the only clue. The film was a commercial hit, with a budget of $5 million and a box office revenue of $75 million. It was well-received for its slapstick humor and wacky characters, and it revived the previously dormant Pink Panther franchise.
Plot
"The Return of the Pink Panther" (1975) follows the story of the infamous French Detective Inspector Jacques Clouseau, played by Peter Sellers, who is called in to find the stolen Pink Panther diamond. The theft surprises everyone as it was believed that the Phantom, a.k.a. Sir Charles Litton, had retired. As Clouseau bumbles his way through the case, he inadvertently causes mayhem, while his boss, Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus, is driven to the brink of insanity and attempts to murder Clouseau. The film is known for its slapstick humor and wacky characters, including Clouseau's oriental manservant, Cato Fong. The plot also involves the animated Pink Panther and the efforts of Sir Charles Litton to clear his name and find the diamond. The movie culminates in a comedic and chaotic resolution, typical of the Pink Panther series.
Trailer
Cast
- Peter Sellers as Insp. Jacques Clouseau
- Christopher Plummer as Sir Charles Litton
- Catherine Schell as Lady Claudine Lytton
- Herbert Lom as Chief Insp. Charles Dreyfus
- Peter Arne as Colonel Sharki
- Peter Jeffrey as General Wadafi
- Grégoire Aslan as Chief of Lugash Police
- David Lodge as Mac
- Graham Stark as Pepi
- Eric Pohlmann as The Fat Man
- André Maranne as Sgt. François Chevalier
- Burt Kwouk as Cato
- Victor Spinetti as Hotel Concierge
- John Bluthal as Saloud
- Mike Grady as Plaza Hotel Clerk
- Alfie Bass as Fernet
- Sue Lloyd as Margo Fassbender
- Dyan Cannon as Simone Legree
- John Wells as Whitney
Director: Blake Edwards
Writer: Frank Waldman, Blake Edwards
Box Office Gross: $41,833,347
Genre: Comedy
Distributor: United Artists
Release Date (Theaters): May 21, 1975
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 25, 2013
Theme
The theme of "The Return of the Pink Panther" revolves around comedy, mystery, and the classic "whodunit" plot. It explores the absurdity of Inspector Clouseau's investigative methods and the chaos that ensues as he attempts to solve the case of the stolen Pink Panther diamond. The film also delves into the theme of mistaken identities, with the return of the Phantom and the ensuing confusion. Additionally, it touches on the theme of redemption, as Sir Charles Litton seeks to clear his name. The movie is known for its lighthearted and humorous take on these themes, making it a beloved classic.
Reception
"The Return of the Pink Panther" was well-received by audiences and critics alike. It was praised for reviving the Pink Panther franchise and bringing back the iconic humor and wit of Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau. The film's slapstick comedy and entertaining plot garnered positive reviews, contributing to its commercial success. The movie's reception solidified its place as a beloved classic in the comedy and mystery genres.
Settings, Visual Styles, and Techniques
The film is set in various locations, including exotic and picturesque settings such as the French Riviera, which adds to the allure of the story. The visual style of the movie is characterized by its vibrant and colorful cinematography, capturing the elegance of the surroundings. Director Blake Edwards employed a mix of wide shots to showcase the beautiful locations and close-ups to highlight the comedic performances. The film also features classic comedic techniques such as physical humor, witty dialogue, and cleverly staged slapstick sequences, all of which are synonymous with the Pink Panther series.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- "The Return of the Pink Panther" marked Peter Sellers' highly anticipated return to the role of Inspector Clouseau after a long hiatus, delighting fans of the series.
- The movie's success led to a series of sequels, further cementing the legacy of the Pink Panther franchise.
- The animated Pink Panther character, known for its distinctive and playful antics, became a cultural icon associated with the film series.