In this very clever black comedy, a simpleton gardener named Chance (Sellers) charms his way into the lives of Washington D.C.s politically elite after being evicted from his home. He is involved in a minor traffic accident caused by his obsession with television, and is helped by the wife of wealthy but ailing industrialist Benjamin Rand (Douglas in his well deserved Academy Award winning role) who offers him medical attention from the live-in staff at their estate.

Chances presence there during a presidential visit sparks a bizarre global intelligence race to identify him. Benjamins wife, Eve (Maclaine) soon falls for Chance, and this adds fuel to the already intense rumour mill. This setting provides the basis for a series of misunderstandings that propels Chance headlong into the glare of an international media frenzy, all of which he is oblivious to  or is he?

I adore this film, there is so much in it that I dont know where to start. Everything comes together seamlessly, with an absorbing plot, wonderful screenplay, fabulous performances from the entire cast and sensitive direction. The screenplay is written by Jerzy Kosinski, also the author of the book that the film is based on, and this may EXPLAIN why the characters seem so real and believable. This film also signifies a departure from the type of character Sellers usually plays. Nearing the end of his career, he delivers a tour-de-force performance easily justifying his Academy Award nomination.

Maclaine is also at her best  her portrayal of Eve lends great depth to a pivotal role. The wacky masturbation scene she shares with Sellers is marvellous. Adding a finishing touch which I viewed as a fitting, if not prophetic, tribute to Sellers career (he died the following year) is the addition of some outtakes featuring Sellers trying to get through one particular scene as the credits roll. If nothing else, it serves to highlight just how straight he had to play the character to pull it off. Its simply a wonderful film.

I love this film totally. To me, everything about this production is flawless. If you like Peter Sellers this one will be a real eye-opener. There is nothing overtly hilarious; much of the humour is subtle. Excellent stuff.

THE EXTRAS

Basic extras only. Cast and filmmaker profiles in scroll screen style, four subtitles options (English, French, Spanish and Portugese), French dubbed language option, an awards listing, trailer and scene selection. To me, no biggie, as all you need is the film  it speaks for itself.

CONCLUSION

In this very clever black comedy, a simpleton gardener named Chance (Sellers) charms his way into the lives of Washington D.C.s politically elite after being evicted from his home. He is involved in a minor traffic accident caused by his obsession with television, and is helped by the wife of wealthy but ailing industrialist Benjamin Rand who offers him medical attention from the live-in staff at their estate.