A gentle, funny tale by a master storyteller, turned into a delightfully droll film with the supremely gifted Peter Sellers in yet another magnificent performance. Based on "The Catbird's Seat" by one of my favorite authors, James Thurber, the film is typical English understated comedy, which makes me laugh heartily. There is no meanness in this film, no put-downs of either gender. It's just a story of an encounter between Old World England and New World America circa 1950s. Dated? Yes, but terrifically funny nonetheless. My only complaint: It's not available for purchase anywhere that I've been able to discover. If it were, I'd buy it in a New York minute.

I read Thurber's short story, "The Catbird Seat" as a part of my English course in school, and thoroughly enjoyed it then. Seeing the film version (years later) was a real treat. Peter Sellers was very good as the shy and sneaky Mr. Martin, but Constance Cummings reduced Miss Barrows to a caricature. Her breakdown at the end of the film comes across as contrived - she makes it look as if Miss Barrows is pretending to cry to get sympathy. Other than that, it is a thoroughly enjoyable film to watch.

This film represents classic British humor with wonderful actors. The story is quite modern despite the period setting. I wish the film were available on video. If you enjoy listening to a Scottish accent you will especially enjoy this movie.

British comedy where mild-mannered character played by Sellers is moved to murder when the company he's given his life to is taken over by brash American woman. Due to make-up, Sellers looks the same age as when he played all those Pink Panther movies in the 70's. Cute ending, too.