If you loved the quirky, chaotic charm of 'The Party' (1968), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same hilarious misunderstandings, social satire, and slapstick comedy that made Peter Sellers' performance unforgettable. Whether you're a fan of classic comedies or just looking for something lighthearted, these picks will keep you laughing.

Some Like It Hot (1959)
Description: This classic comedy shares 'The Party's' farcical elements and gender-bending humor. Both films feature characters in absurd situations that escalate comically. The rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy are similar in both films.
Fact: Marilyn Monroe required 47 takes to say 'It's me, Sugar' correctly. The film was shot in black and white to make the men's makeup look more convincing. It was voted the greatest comedy of all time by the American Film Institute.


The Apartment (1960)
Description: This Billy Wilder film shares 'The Party's' blend of comedy and social commentary. Both films use humor to explore themes of loneliness and the absurdity of modern life. The corporate satire in 'The Apartment' is similar to the Hollywood satire in 'The Party'.
Fact: The film won five Academy Awards including Best Picture. Jack Lemmon's character was originally written for Frank Sinatra. The film was controversial for its time due to its themes of adultery.


The Pink Panther (1963)
Description: Another Peter Sellers vehicle that shares 'The Party's' physical comedy and bumbling protagonist. Inspector Clouseau's social awkwardness and cultural misunderstandings mirror those in 'The Party'. Both films use visual gags and slapstick humor.
Fact: The famous animated pink panther was created for the opening credits. Peter Sellers improvised many of his lines. The film was originally intended to focus on David Niven's character, not Clouseau.


A Shot in the Dark (1964)
Description: This second Pink Panther film continues the themes of 'The Party' with its bumbling protagonist and escalating comedic situations. Both films feature Peter Sellers as a character who creates chaos through his misunderstandings.
Fact: The film was originally written as a stage play adaptation, not a Pink Panther sequel. Blake Edwards directed both this film and 'The Party'. The famous 'billiard room' scene was largely improvised.


The Graduate (1967)
Description: Like 'The Party', 'The Graduate' is a satirical comedy that critiques societal norms and expectations. Both films use humor to explore themes of alienation and the absurdity of social conventions. The protagonist's awkwardness in social situations mirrors Peter Sellers' character in 'The Party'.
Fact: Dustin Hoffman was not the first choice for the role of Benjamin Braddock. The iconic scene of Benjamin floating in the pool was shot in just one take. The film's soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel became a cultural phenomenon.


Harold and Maude (1971)
Description: This dark comedy shares 'The Party's' absurdist humor and critique of societal norms. Both films feature protagonists who are outsiders navigating bizarre social situations. The unconventional romance in 'Harold and Maude' parallels the unconventional humor in 'The Party'.
Fact: The film was a box office flop but became a cult classic. Cat Stevens wrote several songs specifically for the film. Ruth Gordon was 75 years old when she played Maude.


What's Up, Doc? (1972)
Description: This screwball comedy shares 'The Party's' chaotic energy and escalating absurdity. Both films feature characters caught in increasingly ridiculous situations. The physical comedy and fast-paced dialogue are similar.
Fact: The film was intended as a homage to 1930s screwball comedies. Barbra Streisand did many of her own stunts. The film was a major box office success, earning over $66 million.


Blazing Saddles (1974)
Description: Like 'The Party', this film uses absurd humor to critique social norms and stereotypes. Both films break the fourth wall and use anachronisms for comedic effect. The satirical approach to cultural differences is similar.
Fact: The famous campfire scene was actually shot on a soundstage. Richard Pryor was one of the screenwriters. The film was controversial for its use of racial humor.


Being There (1979)
Description: Another Peter Sellers film that, like 'The Party', explores themes of misunderstanding and social awkwardness. Both films use a naive protagonist to satirize societal structures. The deadpan humor and social commentary are similar in both films.
Fact: Peter Sellers' performance was partly inspired by Stan Laurel. The film was adapted from a novel by Jerzy Kosinski. Sellers was nominated for an Academy Award for this role.


Airplane! (1980)
Description: This film shares 'The Party's' use of absurd visual gags and deadpan delivery. Both films feature characters who remain serious in ridiculous situations. The rapid-fire jokes and cultural references are similar in style.
Fact: The film was inspired by a 1957 disaster movie called 'Zero Hour!'. Many of the actors were known for serious roles, not comedy. The 'drinking problem' gag was improvised on set.
