It seems hard to believe now, but initially United Artists had so little faith in The Pink Panther that they let Lee Grade produce it in exchange for distribution rights. You can bet UA was regretting that decision after the film became a hit and spawned several sequels.
Setting the tone for the series, The Pink Panther might best be described as an easy-going caper. Directed and co-written by Blake Edwards (Breakfast at Tiffany’s) with Maurice Richlin, The Pink Panther serves as an introduction to Peter Sellers bumbling Clouseau. However, as originally conceived, Panther was to center around a sophisticated jewel thief Sir Charles Litton, played by David Niven. Hence, Niven’s name above Sellers in the credits. However, as filming commenced, it was clear that Sellers bumbling detective was driving the plot and getting most of the laughs. Sellers was the breakout star of The Pink Panther despite the presence of a star-studded ensemble cast of Robert Wagner, Claudia Cardinale, and Capucine.
While not quite as laugh-out loud funny as future films, Edwards keeps things well paced throughout and gives both Peter Sellers and David Niven the opportunity to shine. Now, more than sixty years after its initial theatrical run, The Pink Panther remains a fun movie to watch.
Presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, Kino Lorber’s new HDR Dolby Vision 4K transfer is a solid one. Sourced from the original camera negative, with bold colors and lush textures, this is the best The Pink Panther has ever looked. The boosted colors make darker scenes look clearer than ever. There are only a few small scratches and no apparent fluctuations.
While I prefer the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, this release also includes the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. Everything is the clearest I’ve ever heard, from dialogue, score and sound mix.
English SDH subtitles are included.
The following extras are available:
DISC 1 (4KUHD):
- Audio Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Blake Edwards
DISC 2 (BLU-RAY):
- Audio Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Blake Edwards
- The Pink Panther Story: Documentary (28:44) SD
- Behind the Feline – The Cartoon Phenomenon: Featurette (10:52) SD
- The Coolest Cat in Cortina – A Conversation with Robert Wagner: Featurette (10:56) SD
- An Italian Indian – The Pink Panther Princess with Claudia Cardinale: Featurette (11:11) SD
- Diamonds – Beyond the Sparkle: Featurette (6:55) SD
- The Tip Toe Life of a Cat Burglar – A Conversation with Former Jewel Thief Bill Mason: Featurette (9:45) SD
- Theatrical Trailer