A SHOT IN THE DARK (Theatrical Release USA 1964)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.2|5.0 Starsìììì

A Shot in the Dark—the second movie in the Pink Panther film lineup—begins defining the special mix of light-hearted comedy and mystery that will express throughout the franchise from 1964 onward. There is an obvious struggle in this movie to stabilize and find its voice, its formula, and its presentation. It smartly changes focus to Inspector Clouseau while introducing the characters of Cato and Dreyfus. It’s a good, routine movie, fun and easy on the mind.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline

Inspector Clouseau investigates the murder of a chauffeur.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Blake Edwards for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producer Walter Mirisch for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Jacques Clouseau (Peter Sellers), Maria Gambrelli (Elke Sommer), Benjamin Ballon (George Sanders), Charles Dreyfus (Herbert Lom), Dominique Ballon (Tracy Reed), Hercule LaJoy (Graham Stark), Simone (Moira Redmond), Madame LaFarge (Vanda Godsell), Pierre (Maurice Kaufmann), and Dudu (Ann Lynn).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. This movie is a good study on how series-style movies begin and sustain by quickly recognizing the elements that an audience relates to and marketing those elements to good advantage. Great work for Director Blake Edwards.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers