Amusements Reviewed

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 88, 13 April 1940, Page 12

Amusements Reviewed

"NINOTCHKA." ST. JAMES". Ninotehka Greta (Jarlio. Leon JU-lvyn Douglas. Swana Ina Claire. Kazinin Bola I.ugosi. Iranoff Sig Rumanu. Buljanoff Felix Bressart. Director: Ernst Lubitsch. .. M.-G.-JI. Garbo has never abdicated—thousands, no, millions, will say she has never been even in danger of dethronement—from the proud position which she won tor herself iu the very early days of talkies and before, with those tremendous omotional dramas in which she was first presented to an intrigued, glamour-hungry world. Throughout, her career—.she has made about 2.3 film?, every one of them a "hit"' —«he has remained essentially a tragedienne. True, in occasional scenes she allowed herself to smile and be gay—a gieat dramatic actress must cover every phase of the human emotions. Never, however, did she star in a full-length comedy until her high-paying studio, 3letro-Gold wyn-Mayer, decided to film •"Xinotchka," current show at the St. James". And it can all be laid at the scorc of Ernst Lubitsch, world-famous director of a hundred polished films of the past.

Lubitsch it was who made Garbo lau«h, chivvy and chide herself like a clown, get hopelessly and gloriously tipsy—in short, do everything which a young woman on the spree in Paris could conceivably do. Garbo is cast as a Bolshevik agent who goes to Paris to see that the three trusted agents of the Communist fathers do not get up to any serious monkey business in the matter of their assignment—the selling of the Russian Crown jewels. The performances of these three Red agent;; (played by Sig Kuraann, Felix Bressart and Alexander Cranaeh) are really superb. Many patrons will credit them with almost stealing the honours from the great Greta herself. Ina Claire, one of America's most, famous stage actresses, has a splendid role as Swana. and Jlelwyn Douglas is excellent in the romantic lead. The former

"horror man," Bela Lugosi, ie much more innocent though no less impressive in the principal supporting role. Garbo is undoubtedly the big attraction oi the show so far as the electric lights are concerned, but—what is more—she docs not disappoint. Even her detractors of the past—and they have not been few in number—will concede her the triumph that "Xinotchka," her first comedy, .provides her. "COME ON GEORGE." REGENT. George- George Foruiby. Ann .lull is.>ll Patricia Kirkwood. Sir Charles Bailey Joss Ambler. Monica Bailey Meriel Forbes. Jimmy Taylor Cyril Raymond. Baiinerman George Hayes. Director : Anthony KUnmins. . . .A.T.P. Those who enjoy comedy will find a riclrrbill of fare in "Come On, George," ■which, is the big feature of the current programme at the Regent Theatre. In the main part is George Formby, the wellknown English comedian, who has won the greatest popularity everywhere, and who is the gr-»at«fst money-making star of the English films.

In "Come On, George," he is cast in the role of a stable-hand, who has been set to guard a wild race horse named Mar.eater, and as might be expected, the troubles which follow are many and exciting. The humorous situations cannot fail to raise the greatest hilarity. The light-hearted story carries the famous comedian through a maze of adventures. He gets mixed up with racecourse crooks. There ar'e colourful moments when he has a conflict with gangsters, he rides the winner of a big race in dashing way, and in the end comes his reward with a note of romance, and the girl of his choice as his wife. The picture is described as the best that George Formby has been associated with, and it sets a very ihigh standard in humorous entertainment.

The bright and attractive personality of George Fonniby is reflected throughout the picture, and its quick-changing plot and wealth of incidents gives him every opportunity to show bis great gifts which make him such a popular favourite as an entertainer.

In "Come On, George," there is a very capable supporting cast, including such well-known artists as Patricia Kirkwood, Joss Ambler and Meriel Forbes. There is an excellent supporting programme, including the latest Patne air mail news, a colour cartoon, '"Little Lambkin," a portrait of vaudeville, and a picture which has a special interest at the present mocnent, the training of air fighters at England's Cranwell training school. OXFORD. Smart dialogue, slick acting and smooth direction are factors that make "Daytime Wife," at the Oxford Theatre, one of the most enjoyable films of its type shown here for some time. Audiences at the Century Theatre, -where "Daytime Wife" had its first showings, chuckled continuously from start to finish, evidencing complete enjoyment of some of the wittiest wisecracks heard on the screen. Largely responsible for tbe success of this film is veteran actor*, Gregory Ratoff, in whose •bands the direction was (placed. He kept the film running at a brisk clip throughout, yet retained full control of the tempo to give it an attractively balanced effect. Tyrone Power and Linda Darnell have .the principal roles, with Binnie Barnes; Warren William and Joan Davis in the main supporting parts. Tbe story centres round the complications that follow the decision of a young wife te get a job in a city office to find out the real reason why her husband stayed in town at night so often "on business." "Hollywood Cavalcade," with Alice Faye and Don Aroecke, heads the balance of the programme. PLAZA.

There is a strong tendency among members of the older generation adversely to compare things modern with those of their day; in no field is this more marked than in that of acting. In regard to motion pictures, old-timers will nearly always aver that there was better acting in the days of the "silents" than in the modern sound films. But few of this fraternity who have seen the second version of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," now at the Plaza Theatre, haye had the temerity to criticise it in comparison with the original; this, despite the fact that none other than the late Don Ohaney had the title role in the first film. It is not unnatural that, with the advance in the science s>f film-maiing, the new picture should foe technically superior tp its predecessor. This would foe of comparatively little importance, however, were it not for the superlative actin* of Charles La-ughton in the part in which Chaney was so outstanding; it is not too much to say that Laugh ton :s definitely better than Ohaney was. Excellent support is given this great star by a capable cast, including Sir Cedric Hardwicke, Thomas Mitchell and Maureen O'Hara. CIVIC. Action spiced with romance is the keynote of "Green Hell," enjoying a successful extended season at the Civic Theatre. Popular Douglas Fairbanks, Jun., and glamorous Joan Bennett, shale acting honours 'at the head of a powerful cast, and both fully maintain their high respective reputations. Young Fairbanks is carrying on in great style the family name made so famous by hk 'ate father, and he is seen at his best in "Green Hell." He i 6 cast as one of the leaders of an expedition into the heart of steamy South American jungle, in search of lost Inca treasure. He and his men recover the hoard, but are beset by disease, tropical rains and hostile Indians. The party is almost lost before a last-oninute rescue by friendly natives. John Howard, Ai».n Hale, George Bancroft and Vincent Price are outstanding among the supporting pliyers. Lavifth production plays a considerable part in making the film a success, and oome of the I scenes of Inca temples are unusually impressive.

"U-BOAT 29." CENTURY. Captain Hurdt Conrad Yoidt. Ashinjrton Sebastian Shaw. The School Mistrees... Valeric Hobson. Schuslcr Marius Goring. Anne Burnett June Dnprez. The Rev. Hector Matthews. .Attaole Stewart. Director: Michael rowell. .Columbia. 'Jbrilling in its timeliness and its drama, the film. "l-Boat 29," which opened it* .Auckland season yestevdav before large audiences at the Century" Theatre, is a show that will draw—and must draw because of its brilliant storv content, and its starring of Conrad Veidt.

A eidt has boon in films as long as moat people can remember; all his parts he ban imbued with a personality and a striking sense of -atmosphere" that leaves hint second to none. "U-Boat 29" is essentially a Conrad Veidt [.reduction. But tliat is not to say that Sebastian Shaw, Valerie Hobson (of '"Four Feathers" fame), Marnis Goring and June Dnprez do not contribute sterling Second of the Columbia films to be made in England. "U-Boat 29" traces the adventures of a German naval officer spy in .Scotland and his relations with a eirl whom lie believes is a German agent, but who is, in fact, a British Secret Sen-ice worker. The narrative reveals the way in •which he is used .bv Britain's secret. a«ents. and his c.v-app and ultimate end aboard a tinv Scottish steamer. It is a realistic tale, in which the scenes of a German "sub" and crew landing its charges on Scottish shores, of the Grand Meet in action and of the sinking of the isiibrnarined ship are brilliant examples ot the camera s worth in dramatic presentation.

same programme is the drama, Married And In Love," starring Alan Marshal Pa trie Knowles, Barbara Read and Helen Vinson. Latest news reels are also being ahown. "REWI'S LAST STAND." STRAND. £ r j? n .? Karaal te Mlha. Boh Beaumont Leo rilcher. Old Ben. . Stanley Knight. ', lr r,?. eo . ree c.f' rev A - J - c - Fisher. r» to sir f'Sorgc Grey Petw Hutt ™ , Mor S an Selwyn Wood. Director: Rudall Hay ward.. .Frontier Films. Dramatised version of a famous historical episode in the occupation of New Zealand by Europeans. 'Rewi's Last Stand," the new feature at the Strand Theatre which earned enthusiastic commendatiou from a large attendance of patrons last night, brings a fitting note of progress to mark this Centenary year. An all-Xew Zealand production of excellent standard, it presents the characteristics of early colonists and of traditional Maori customs in vivid and illuminating contrast, makes the story of the historic defence of Orakau pa a pleasing, if concentrated tabloid of racial notabilities of the young colony in the 'sixties, and cunningly weaves through it all an attractive romance of the fusion of Maori and pakeka. The fidelity to the dress and customs of the period, with the same spirit of courage and adventure that walks the world to-day peeping from behind the strange garbs of yesterday, and the glorious bush, river and moorland scenery of Waikato wilds—these leave an enduring memory of "Rewi's Last Stand." Then, too, the Maori traditional customs in war and peace, an exciting canoe chase, and duels with the taiaha, the Maoris' fighting weapon, rivet attention on the action. Ramai Te Miha's study of a half-caste maiden, torn by conflicting loyalties, is a fine bit of acting, as also is that of Stanley Knight as Old Ben. A. J. C. Fisher does some fine character work in the role of Sir George Grey. Mr. Rudall Hayward is to be congratulated on having made of "Rewi's Last Stand" a film that enshrines the spirit of the two races.

EMBASSY. When the daughter of a typical American middle-class family, with more than her share of energetic outspokenness, finds herself in an exclusive, very "refined" girls' camp, things may be expected to happen. Tbey do in "The Under-Pup," popular attraction at the Embassy Theatre. A nowoomer to the Hollywood scene, Gloria Jean, has the principal role, and she makes a highly impressive film debut. She has an effervescent cfbarm of the type that made Deanna Dunbin so popular with Auckland audiences, and has, in addition, a distinct individuality that has captivated all patrons who have seen the film. She sings delightfully, and her talent in this direction alone is sufficient to make her a "big" 6tar. Far from being a songstress only, however, she shows definite possibilities as an aetress, and she should go far in her screen career. She gets excellent support in "The UnderPup" from Nan Grey, Robert Cummings, C. Aubrey Smith, Ann Gillis and Virginia Weidler. v ROXY—TIVOLL Two popular players, Warner Baxter and Alice Faye, are co-starred in "Barricade," fast-moving action-drama which heads this evening's entertainment at the Rosy and Tivoli Theatres. Warner Baxter is as impressive as ever as a hard-drinking, itinerent newspaper reporter, out of 4 jab; blonde Miss Faye shows unexpected dramatic talents as a girl from Brooklyn, stranded in -war-torn China in 1937, posing as the Russian wife of a dead American in an effort to obtain a passport from the American Consul. The two meet in a train, when the shrewd reporter penetrates the ftirFs guise as a Russian. They come together again in the bandit-ridden city for which their train is bound. There they find a trusting little U.S. Consul endeavouring to keep going under almost unbearable conditions. Events move rapidly to the climax, when the city is attacked by bandits, and the Americans are saved only in the nick of time. Charles Winninger is the chief supporting player. Glenda Farrell and Barton Mac Lane are co-starred in "Torchy Runs For Mayor," the second attraction. DE PARIS. Already gaining a large number of patrons due to the high entertainment value and cultural quality of the films it shows, the De Paris Theatre this week presents "The Circus," first Continental film of the musical comedy type to be shown here. Up till now the films have been chiefly notable for ajtistip acting performances; in "The Circus" m found, in addition, excitement, thrills and suspense, with the action set on a lavish and spectacular film. Like the highly successful "Professor Mamlock," the new film is a Moscow production, and evidences the 6aine technical artistry as its predecessor. Main performer is a Russian star billed as a Muscovite Charlie Chaplin. ' "Song of Youth," highly popular when shown previously, and "The Life of a Russian Child" are the supporting attractions.

ICE SHOW AGAIN. As the time allocated to tie original Auckland season of the Switzerland Ice Show and Ice Ballet was brief, the J. C. Williamson management has extended t>he New Zealand dr>ur tp enable Miss Megan Taylor, Eddie Marcel. Phil Taylor and 4he other popular and brilliant skaters and skaterinas to again appear in thk city before they return to Australia. This event will happen af His Majesty's Theatre on Saturday. April 27, and for a limited season. The Wellington season was extended to over four weeks, and even then it is estimated that fully 1000 people were turned away from the two final performances there. The success of the tour has exceeded the most sanguine anticipations of the directors of J. C. Williamson, as "Switzerland," it is said, has broken all known theatre records in every city and town in which it has been staged. "Switzerland" *s a show of surprises, and presents many beautiful pictures and exhibitions of grace. The presentation is in the happiest etyle, the dressing superb, the lichtin? artistic and brilliant: there is a splendid orchestra, and the outstanding artistry of the skaters is a revcla- . tion to New Zsalanders.

"THE RETURN OF DR. X." ! MAJESTIC. I Marshall Quesne... .Humphrey Bogart. r,? a , n Vance Rosemary Lane. | Walter Barnctt Wayne Morris. I i llch ®®? Rhodes Dennis Morgan. Dr. Francis Flegg John Lite!. ■Angela Merrova Ija Lys. Director: Vincent Sherman First National. Also "FORGOTTEN* WOMAN," with Sigrid Guire and William Lundlgan. v 9, n ®y e J"y count, "The Return of Dr. Ic' ,T - . h ea ds the new programme at the Majestic Theatre, is a first-clam offering of the melodramatic type. It is a really good picture of the weird type of melodrama. The points which enhance its value as a screen entertainment of an extraordinary nature are good direction, splendid acting, pace, suspense and that. touch of the weird which many humans find so fascinating. The theme of the production is not new to motion pictures, but the theme in this case has an exciting and eerie twist.

The story centres around the astonishing activities of a man who bad been pronounced dead by electrocution and who has been returned to the living world by his counterpart in cerienese—a blood specialist. The specialist, played by John Litel, is a doctor seeking the discovery of synthetic blood. However, the man lie had brought back from Valhalla, a doctor who had been convicted of murder, can stay among the living only by replenishing his blood supply, a supply, incidentally depending upon the most rare of the four blood types—type one. Humphrey Bogart, with a streak of silver in his hair and a face of marble pallor, is the sinister stalker of his victims. Altogether '"The Return of Dr. X" claims the close attention of the audience, as there are many exciting and tense moments.

On the same programme appears a picture of outstanding merit. This is "The "Forgotten Woman," a Universal production. in which Sigrid Gurie stands out vividly as the principal figure, and is seen for the first time as a modern woman. Sombre in tone, with but little alleviating humour, the pipture arouses honest sympathy for a persecuted woman. Sent to prison by circumstantial evidence, Anne Kennedy, played by Sigrid Gurie. is forced to spend three years behind high walls and bear a child there when evidence establishing her innocence is hidden, On her release she becomes an unwanted woman unable to obtain work, and she surrenders the child to adoption, meanwhile vowing vengeance upon the man who helped to condemn her. While the theme of a persecuted, sacrificing woman has often been a film subject, the manner in which it is presented in Forgotten Woman" gives it fresh appeal, and the way Miss Gurie carries the role give* the plot, a more intimate touch. Patrons will find the production unusuallv mterestinz. and any adult audience will understand just how the things that happen in this film might happen to anyone