"The Party" (1968)- Peter Sellers at his best in another Blake Edwards film. Hrundi
V. Bakshi (Sellers) a stage actor from New Dehli is cast in the big
Hollywood film "Son of Gunga Din". In that special Peter Sellers way, he
manages to destroy the most expensive set on the Picture. The head
honcho immediately orders him fired. Through a clerk's error he is
instead accidentally invited to an exclusive Hollywood party at the film
executive's mansion. Sellers and Edwards teamed with their "Pink
Panther" composer Henry Mancini to rip the swingin' Hollywood party
scene to shreds.
Best scene: There are so many great "bits" it's tough to nail down the best. I will name two:
First----"The White Shoe". On his arrival at the party, Hrundi's (Sellers) white shoe is dirty. He attempts to clean it by dipping it in a fountain that flows throughout the house.
Next----Socially uncomfortable at the party, Hrundi has a conversation with"Birdie Num Num", the studio exec's parrot.
Much of Seller's performance is without dialogue. Hrundi doesn't want to draw attention. It's amazing to see him in silent mode. We are used to the bumbling words & actions of Inspector Clouseau. Or the multiple characters in Dr. Strangelove. In contrast, Hrundi is subtle, extremely self-conscious and has a true sense of humor. He messes with socially savvy people in his own "innocent" but purposeful way. Is there a social message? You decide for yourself. Maybe see "Gunga Din" (1939).
Even if you don't ever choose to watch "The Party", I suggest that you Google "Birdie Num Num" and "Peter Sellers The White Shoe" to watch these scenes.
First----"The White Shoe". On his arrival at the party, Hrundi's (Sellers) white shoe is dirty. He attempts to clean it by dipping it in a fountain that flows throughout the house.
Next----Socially uncomfortable at the party, Hrundi has a conversation with"Birdie Num Num", the studio exec's parrot.
Much of Seller's performance is without dialogue. Hrundi doesn't want to draw attention. It's amazing to see him in silent mode. We are used to the bumbling words & actions of Inspector Clouseau. Or the multiple characters in Dr. Strangelove. In contrast, Hrundi is subtle, extremely self-conscious and has a true sense of humor. He messes with socially savvy people in his own "innocent" but purposeful way. Is there a social message? You decide for yourself. Maybe see "Gunga Din" (1939).
Even if you don't ever choose to watch "The Party", I suggest that you Google "Birdie Num Num" and "Peter Sellers The White Shoe" to watch these scenes.
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