'Mr. Topaze' Exclusive Trailer: Peter Sellers' Long -Lost Directorial Debut Gets A New 2K Restoration From Film Movement

While many people know Peter Sellers from his iconic role as Chief Inspector Clouseau in the ‘Pink Panther’ film series, the actor is one of the most celebrated performers in film history, with roles in incredible films and even one stint behind the camera as a director. And thanks to Film Movement, fans of Sellers will get a chance to see the actor’s lone, credited directorial effort, “Mr. Topaze,” like they’ve never seen before.

In honor of Film Movement releasing a new 2K restoration of the “lost” Sellers film, we’re thrilled to give our readers an exclusive look at the trailer for the new release, which is scheduled to arrive in June. “Mr. Topaze” stars Sellers as the title character, a French schoolmaster with an unlucky streak and a penchant for honesty, as he is hired to manage a shady business after being fired from his position at a school.

READ MORE: ‘The Ghost of Peter Sellers’: Peter Medak Is Still Haunted By A Disastrous, Unreleased Pirate Comedy [Venice Review]

For years, the film has been difficult to find, as there is only one print of “Mr. Topaze” remaining at the BFI archives. However, Film Movement has secured the 35mm print and restored it, making this version of the film the best release of the 1961 comedy to ever be released. Joining Sellers in the cast of “Mr. Topaze” are Herbert Lom, Nadia Gray, Leo McKern, Billie Whitelaw, and Michael Gough.

“Mr. Topaze” will be available via Film Movement’s Virtual Cinema beginning on June 12. You can watch the new trailer below.

Here’s the synopsis:

Unwilling to sacrifice his principles, Auguste Topaze (Peter Sellers), a poor but proud French schoolmaster, loses his job after he refuses to alter the failing grades of one of students. Seizing the opportunity to exploit his well-known honesty, actress Suzy Courtois (Nadia Gray) convinces her lover, the corrupt city council member Castel Benac (Herbert Lom), to hire Topaze as a managing director for one of his shady businesses. But when Topaze learns he is being used, he cunningly turns the tables on his deceivers and makes off with all of the money.