REGENT THEATRE

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 226, 20 June 1936, Page 13

REGENT THEATRE

“Anything Goes”

Though billed as a musical show, “Anything Goes,” Paramount’s new release at the Regent Theatre, owes the greater part of its success to its comedy comedy that keeps the audience simmering with laughter which every now and then breaks out into loud guffaws, quickly to be silenced while one listens for the next funny line and “wisecrack. “Anything Goes” is the film version of Cole Porter’s very successful stage production, the composer’s music being among its chief attractions. Such popular numbers as “Anything Goes, You re the Top,” and “I Get;a Kick Out of You,’* are prime favourites, in addition to several other numbers written for the screen show by other composers. lh plot is a merry mix-up with its action on board an ocean liner numbered among the passengers of which are two crooks, one of them masquerading as a clergyman, an English heiress and a love-sick young American. Their adventures form the story. Bing Crosby heads .the cast and has ample opportunity to display his prowess not only as a vocalist—ne has some very catchy numbers to sing but also as a good comedian. Ethel Merman has the role in which she appeared in the Broadway show, and Ida Luptno, a London lass, looks very dainty as sue supplies the romance for the picture. And last, but by no means least—for fie is the hit of the show—is Charlie Ruggles, who, as Public Enemy No. 1, finds jhat he has to travel in the garb of a clergyman. His humour is infectious, and the many embarrassing situations in which he and his companions find themselves give him plenty of opportunity to send the audience into loud laughter. There is a spectacular dance scene in the film, which is wonderfully mounted. Anything Goes" certainly should go—and for an extended season, too. In addition there is a good supporting bill.