TALKING FILM

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 29, 29 October 1928, Page 11

TALKING FILM

VARIED RECEPTION IN LONDON

LESS IMPRESSIVE THAN EXPECTED

(United Press Association.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (Australian Press Association.) (Rec. October 28, 5.5 p.m.) London, October 27. London’s first talking film met with a varied reception. It was “The Terror,” by Edgar Wallace. The general verdict appears to be that “talkies” do not displace the silent film, not even in quality. It is a strain on tlie attention and the semi-somnolent music of the ordinary kinema is absent. The films are less impressive than expected. Footsteps are barely heard, and the highpitched voices are unpleasant, while the American accent is harsh. Mr. John Drinkwater, the dramatist, says the “talkie” is a thing of great potential value and means the distribution of fine work. It is highly important and should be employed by people of artistic sensibility. Mr. Miles Mander, the film director, says nobody could convince him that the English will tolerate the “talkie,” which tends to eliminate the artistic silent film.

Miss Daisy Kennedy says the instrumental reproduction is the best heard, while the vocal is not so good, but is impressive. London is likely to be divided into two schools in opinion, but it will certainly be years before there is any effect on the silent film.