The Pink Panther

Starring: Steve Martin, Kevin Kline, Jean Reno, Emily Mortimer, Beyonce Knowles, Jason Statham
Directed by: Shawn Levy
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy
2006

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: After a murder and the disappearance of the pink panther diamond, Inspector Clousseau (Steve Martin) is brought in to solve the crime. Despite his bumbling stupidity, he manages to prove more formittable than he first appears.

Review:

Tim: I fully expected this to be an absolute train wreck. Instead, it is slightly less harmless than that. The Pink Panther is a silly, sophomoric film that won't offend or particularly entertain. It is a lightweight, unmemorable movie that simply exists.

Steve Martin might as well have stepped into the role of Inspector Clouseau. I can't think of another comedic actor who could have done a better job. He is a very realistic bumbling idiot, and Martin will actually surprise with how funny he can be (when he's not constrained by the absolutely awful jokes that often pervade the script). He brings energy to the role, and you have to admire him for that. Kevin Kline was also wisely cast, and he gives a solid performance as well. I am not a fan of Beyonce Knowles, and I felt that she added nothing to the film. Jean Reno is also given a throwaway role (has there been a movie about the French without him in it?). Jason Statham appears in a brief cameo. Why, I can't possibly imagine. Emily Mortimer is actually quite enjoyable to watch, and brought some needed stability to the film.

The movie is filled with immature and mostly forgettable antics. Expect Steve Martin to bumble around, cause chaos wherever he goes, and generally act like a complete fool. Of course, there will be a few French jokes, some accent jokes, and one completely irrelevant but somewhat amusing flatulence scene.

This new version of The Pink Panther is certainly distancing itself from the earlier films. Children might enjoy it, but I mostly believe that adults will tire of the antics quickly and hope for its conclusion.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 5.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Pink Panther 2, Cheaper by the Dozen