Tati's finances were hit hard by the failure of PlayTime to recover its enormous production costs, after which he sold his family residence.

Gunnar Fischer, who had been director of photography on many of Ingmar Bergman's films, handled the cinematography for Parade.

Tati, in the role of Monsieur Loyal, informs the audience that they are invited to be part of the show, which he calls "the parade".

He serves essentially as emcee for a variety show that includes sight gags, mime, juggling, slapstick skits, dancing, animal acts, musical jokes, and magic tricks.

Roger Ebert gave the film 2 out of 4 stars, writing that it "has flashes of wit and style, but it's slow, offhand and meandering, and not Tati at his best.