Synopsis
The movie 'Being There' tells the story of Chance, a simple and sheltered gardener who becomes an unlikely trusted advisor to a powerful businessman and an insider in Washington politics. Peter Sellers, in his brilliant performance, portrays the quiet, enigmatic character who communicates through gardening metaphors, leading others to believe he is profoundly wise.
Why Watch It
Peter Sellers delivers a masterclass in stillness as Chance the gardener, a man whose simple observations are mistaken for profound wisdom by everyone around him—a perfectly calibrated satire on power, ambition, and how easily we project brilliance onto the blank canvas of a good listener. Hal Ashby's direction is deceptively light, letting the comedy of miscommunication unfold with surgical precision while the film quietly skewers American politics and high society. It's a darkly funny meditation on authenticity that only grows sharper with time.
Did You Know?
- Peter Sellers received his only Oscar nomination for 'Being There'.
- The title was originally 'The Gardener' in Jerzy Kosinski's novel.
- Director Hal Ashby edited the film while battling terminal cancer.
- Shirley MacLaine improvised her character's sexual advances towards Chance.
- The film was Peter Sellers’ penultimate film before his death.
Iconic Quotes
- "Life is a state of mind."
- "I like to watch TV."
- "As long as the roots are not severed, all is well."
- "There will be growth in the spring."
- "In a garden, things grow... but first, they must die."
