The Pink Panther English Movie
Handling humour in films is not an easy job. The first few frames of The Pink Panther, replete with done to death tricks to elicit laughter, give that impression.
Steve Martin, who was at his funny best in Father Of The Bride (both part one and two) and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, initially doesn't look at ease playing an accident-prone, incompetent French Inspector, Jacques Clouseau.
The few flaws lead to some unfunny situations. But they don't mar the otherwise hilarious film, which unfolds its comic lustre as it progresses. Martin's character grows on you, making it an enjoyable, entertaining and relaxing experience.
Levy has used some interesting physical comedy between Inspector Clouseau and his secretary Nicole (Emily Mortimer), which generates comic sparks and tickles the funny bone. Clouseau's one-liners are hilarious.
There are some exceptional humour sequences in this slapstick. For instance, the scene where Clouseau decides to learn the American accent and his teacher makes futile attempts to get him to pronounce "hamburger" the American way.
Or when Clouseau goes to a recording studio and enters the recording box to pass wind, thinking nobody will hear him, is outrageously funny.
The film revolves around the murder of a football coach (Jason Statham) and the stolen Pink Panther diamond. Clouseau's conniving boss, Chief Inspector Dreyfus (Kevin Kline), puts him on the case thinking he will take over the case from Clouseau at a crucial point.
Dreyfus' ploy works and he succeeds in framing Clouseau and throwing him out of the case. But in the end it's Clouseau who triumphs.
Beyonce Knowles, who plays Xania, the football coach's girlfriend, adds glamour to this fun flick. All the actors complement one other and make it an enjoyable film.
The Pink Panther can be watched at least once - just for fun's sake.
