The Pink panther

This was the first of a long-running series of films featuring the exploits of Inspector Clouseau. The pink panther referred to in the title was not Inspector Clouseau but the name of a legendary jewel. However, when the panther starred in his own series of animated shorts paired with the Mancini theme song, the follow-up movies adapted the same treatment. Niven stars as Sir Charles Lytton, a notorious and debonair jewel thief. While vacationing at the alpine resort of Cortina D'Ampezzo, he espies an Indian princess, owner of the famous Pink Panther gem. Lytton feverishly attempts to retrieve the jewel, but is pursued by Inspector Jacques Clouseau. Clousea's efforts are subverted by his wife, Simone, who is Lytton's mistress. Events are further complicated by the arrival of Lytton's American nephew, a thief also intent on claiming the treasure. (Circulates)