Is The Peter Sellers Story Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1995)

📖 The Core Premise

The Peter Sellers Story returns to the screen in 1995, bringing a fresh narrative to the Documentary genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Told in his own words, and including many well-known personalities from Stanley Kubrick, Sophia Loren and Robert Wagner to members of the Royal Family, in particular Princess Margaret and Prince Charles, this revealing film builds a fascinating and definitive record of a unique genius. Using a unique collection of his own home movies shot between 1948 and 1977 and discovered years after his death, this film presents an intriguing and intimate portrait of Peter Sellers. A DVD was issued entitled "Peter Sellers - As He Filmed It" which is a 97 minute edit of this original broadcast. Not long after the 3 part documentary series was broadcast it was pulled due to "licencing" issues over home-movie footage used that the Sellers estate had not agreed to. The BBC lost the case I believe and thus the reason for the 97mins DVD that was then later released excising the vast majority of the rare illuminating footage."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Peter Sellers shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is The Peter Sellers Story worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, The Peter Sellers Story is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 205 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.