LIBERTY THEATRE TALKIES

Press, Volume LXV, Issue 19814, 30 December 1929, Page 6

LIBERTY THEATRE TALKIES

"THE MISSISSIPPI GAMBLER?' • JOSEPH SCHILDKKAUT IX ALLTALKIE. A most -interestingly Varied programme of talking pictures is to open this week's change of bill at Liberty Theatre Talkies. The feature film, "The Mississippi Gambler," with a fine case of tried talkie stars, has Joseph Sehildkraut 'in the lead, supported bv Alec. B. France. Otis Harlan, Joiu Bennett, and Carmelita Geragbty. It is a delightful romance of the south, with kindly humour, beautiful scenes, and just sufficient drama and poignancy to leaven its lighter side. The acting is consistently good. and. of course, the voices are the voices of trained artists. Among the supports are the Fox Movietone News of the World, which, this week, includes some very interesting events of recent date, a U.F.A. gem, "Lacquer and Pearls," quite up to the high standard set by these "Gems," 3n all-talking comedv, ""The Rooneys," which gives all the sta'isfaction that its title implies. "Marking Time," a humorous musical number, and "Delicatessen." another talking item, To return to "The Mississippi Gambler." it may be said that, seeing that the talkies are still comparatively new, it has not yet been considered wise to launch out on many "spectacular" productions, the men who control the industry at the present keeping well within reasonable bounds. That is why not many talkies aro made on an ambitious scale. Story, acting, speaking, and general efficiency in the directorial field are concentrated upon, and the fruits of this wise policy are seen in "The Mississippi Gambler." The charming story, that of a gambler's last game, and that game with a g-irl who is playing and fighting for everything ehe holds dear, is told with humour, pathos, and set in exotic surroundings. Schildkraut has a role eminently to his liking, and he adorns it with all his graceful mannerisms. Joan Bennett has everything that a screen actress should, and Alec. B. Erancis, with his charming English voice aiid benign appearance, is a further factor in the success of this unusual and pleasing picture. . The bos plans are at the Bristol Piano Company, and during the closed holidays will be at the theatre.