Alan Spencer on BEING THERE

The brilliant chameleon Peter Sellers turns in his greatest (and penultimate) performance in this low-key satire about politics and the cult of personality. Or in this case, the lack of personality: as Chance, a gentle shut-in untouched by the outside world except for what little knowledge he’s gleaned from TV, Sellers turns in a studious portrait of a completely vacant man. Directed by Hal Ashby from Jerzy Kozinski’s 1970 novel, the film co-stars Shirley MacLaine, Jack Warden and, in an Oscar-winning performance, Melvyn Douglas.

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[billclarke]

When I first saw this - first run at the cinema - I was grateful for the blooper-reel ending. It allowed me to decompress from the seductive thought processes of Chauncey Gardener and re-enter normal society.

[thomasthornton]

One of my favorite movies. Conservatively, I’ve watched it probably a couple dozen times. My eyes well up with tears every time Ben speaks of the Horn of Gabriel, and Chance’s reaction after the fact. Remarkable.

[dmcvegan]

Great information, particularly about him considering a heart transplant (and the Cheney reference was appreciated!), and the inscription on his memorial plaque.

[shaunsummerfield]

first saw it when i was 18, I'm now 60, stayed with me all my life...

[ricardocantoral]

I saw this film for the first time tonight. There is a definitely a center left bias but regardless of the politics, I still find the journey fascinating.

[BBI_Strange_Agent]

An absolutely brilliant film. Hal Ashby has been criminally virtually forgotten as one of the great 70s directors (see Harold and Maude and Shampoo), and what can you say about Peter Sellers that hasn't already been said.

[wingitprod]

I think the audience appreciated the blooper. The Oscars can get bent. It's about US, the audience, not self-aggrandizing over payed narcissists.
Given we are entering the season of sociopaths seeking office again (2016), this movie is worth a visit.

[zamiadams]

Sellers was the greatest actor of all time in my opinion and "Being There" is a work of genius.

[georgeshelton]

That's good comedy that doesn't get any respect.

[monkeySkeptic]

I never cared for either the book or the movie of "Being There, " as they seem heavy-handed to me. Peter Seller's strong identification with the role of Chauncy Gardner is more interesting than the role itself.

[JoeLibby]

The cheap shots at Republicans and conservatives wore out their welcome a long time ago, Alan. That's not the reason I watch these videos, but it might be a reason for me to stop watching yours and Landis's.

[vinceveedal]

One of the worst, brain dead films I've ever seen.