The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu

The 1980 movie "The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu" marks the final film role of the legendary British actor Peter Sellers, and it showcases his incredible range and talent for comedy. The famous actor stars in a dual role - as the notorious villain Fu Manchu and as Nayland Smith of Scotland Yard. The film also features performances by Helen Mirren, David Tomlinson, and other accomplished actors.

In a hilarious twist of the conventional mad scientist story, Fu Manchu, an eccentric and maniacal genius, discovers that his life elixir has run out. The elixir has kept him at the age of 168 years, and without it, he begins to rapidly age and breach the brink of death. Determined to secure his eternal life, he embarks on his most fiendish plot. Sellers as Fu Manchu is a delight to watch, portraying the character with just the right mix of eccentricity and menace, while his portrayal of Nayland Smith of Scotland Yard provides the perfect foil to his own villainous character.

The storyline unfurls as Fu Manchu conspires to replace the Crown Jewels with replicas during Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee celebration, using the real jewels in a ceremony to regain his life elixir. Sellers, as Fu Manchu, recruits a rag-tag team of criminals and uses an array of surprisingly cutting-edge and zany gadgets to execute his diabolical plot. On the other side of the political divide, Detective-Inspector Nayland Smith of Scotland Yard, also played by Sellers, fights tooth and nail to counter the villain's nefarious plans.

This British comedy-drama film adds a unique, over-the-top charm to the decades-old character of Fu Manchu. Sellers’s transformative performance coupled with the theatrics and absurdity of the plot make the movie an enjoyable farce that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Directed by Piers Haggard and Richard Quine, the film is set in the late Victorian era, giving viewers a slice of classic English history blended with fiction. The historical backdrop serves to heighten the comedic elements. The interactions between Sellers' characters, particularly with the character played by Helen Mirren, create dynamic dialogues and offer moments of genuine humor. Mirren, in her role as Alice Rage, complements the chaos and adds to the overall eccentric ambiance of the film.

David Tomlinson, known for his roles in many Disney movies, also has a significant role in this film. He plays Colonel 'Buzzer' Capshaw, a character who attempts to wage wits against the legendary Fu Manchu. Tomlinson’s comic timing and affable character are highlighted in this film, making his presence a valuable addition to the narrative.

"The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu" delights with gorgeous Victorian-era costuming and striking set designs that transport audiences back in time. It contains a good balance of slapstick humor, puns, and visual gags that give a new dimension to the traditional, often dark depiction of the character Fu Manchu. Though it received mixed reviews upon its release, the film over time has gained acceptance as a somewhat cult-classic sketch comedy.

A masterclass in character work by Peter Sellers and a showcase of other seasoned actors' talents, "The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu" is a madcap comedy that is worth indulging in, especially for fans of Sellers and classic British comedy. Given its tie to history and pop culture, "The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu" offers more than just laughs, but a unique glimpse into an era of filmmaking. However, at its core, the film remains a testament to Peter Sellers’s lasting legacy and his unparalleled prowess in making people laugh using the art of cinema.

This fantastic narrative, bright humor, and profound acting of "The Fiendish Plot of Dr. Fu Manchu" makes it a noteworthy entry into the collection of any film lover. The film is a must-watch for fans of light-hearted, vintage comedies, and especially those who love Peter Sellers's charismatic brand of acting.