There are some cinematic roles that are just so iconic that it seems unthinkable to ever cast anyone other than the actor who originated the part–Judy Garland’s Dorothy, Anthony Hopkins’ Norman Bates and Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones are a few that come to mind. But if there was ever a performer who comes loaded with enough of his own distinctive comic genius to put his own brand on the inept, idiotic French egoist Inspector Clouseau, so brilliantly played by Peter Sellers in the original Pink Panther films, it would have to be Steve Martin.
And Martin, who had a hand in conceiving many of the film’s comic moments, certainly covers his bases with the inclusion of the always-easy-on-the-eyes Beyonce Knowles as his sexy foil. Hollywood.com talks to the two headliners to see why they think the venerable Panther franchise will soon be in the pink for a new generation.
Back in the Pink: Steve Martin
“It’s funny that you’d say that because the studio at first–this is when we were at MGM–they insisted that it be called a “re-imagining.” What does that mean? So it’s not officially a remake, because a remake to me is when you use the same script or the same story. So I don’t know what you call it. A play. I don’t know. I really don’t know. And who cares anyway? It’s the Pink Panther movie.” [Get full interview]
Back in the Pink: Beyonce Knowles
“I don’t say I’m shy anymore. I’m just kind of quiet and calm and I observe and I like to, when I’m not working, just blend in…but I guess I can kind of come out of my shell when I’m on the stage. Now I’m learning in films I can do the same thing with different characters.” [Get full interview]
