Overview
Caprice is a 1967 American comedy-thriller directed by Frank Tashlin and distributed by 20th Century Fox. It pairs the screen persona of Doris Day with Richard Harris and character actor Ray Walston in a film that mixes screwball elements with light espionage. The title evokes whimsy, and the movie was positioned as a modern romantic caper rather than a straight thriller.
Plot and themes
The narrative centers on a high-profile woman in the cosmetics and fashion world who becomes entangled in a mystery involving corporate secrets and international intrigue. The tone alternates between comic situations and suspenseful set pieces, using mistaken identities, double-crosses and glamorous settings to explore themes of deception, curiosity and romantic flirtation.
Cast and production
- Doris Day — leading role, showcasing her familiar comic timing and on-screen charm.
- Richard Harris — co-star, bringing a more world-weary dramatic presence.
- Ray Walston — supporting player, contributing character-driven comedic beats.
Director Frank Tashlin, known for his visually playful comedies and background in animation, used stylized framing and brisk pacing. The production reflected 1960s studio practices, aiming for a glossy, contemporary look and broad audience appeal.
Reception and legacy
Critics gave mixed responses: some appreciated the flashy direction and performances, while others found the script uneven. At the box office the film underperformed relative to studio expectations and did not revitalize the careers of its leads. Today it is often discussed in the context of late-period Doris Day films and as an example of Tashlin's commercial studio work.
Notable facts
Caprice sits at the intersection of romantic comedy and light espionage popular in the 1960s. It is of interest to students of genre blending, star studies and mid-20th-century studio filmmaking. For further reading on the film and its creators, consult dedicated filmographies and studio histories.