MYSTERY FOR MAJESTIC.

Evening Post, Volume CXXVII, Issue 74, 29 March 1939, Page 6

MYSTERY FOR MAJESTIC.

"Dead Men Tell No Tales."

"Dead Men Tell No Tales," which' comes to the Majestic Theatre on Friday next, is considered by most London and New York critics to be the most powerful murder mystery film ever conceived. It is particularly aiteresting for several reasons—nrst. ]t is the adaptation ot Francis Beeding's world famous novel "The Norwich Victims"; secondly, because it introduces the young actor-author genius of the London stage, Emlyn Williams. He it was who created the role of Danny, the uncanny murderer of "Night Must Fall" in the stage version. He not only created this role —he was the author of the story. It will be remembered that Robert Montgomery on a holiday visit to London was so impressed with Emlyn Williams's characterisation of "Danny" that he saw it eleven times and raved about the whole production so much that he did not rest until Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer' bought the screen rights and allowed him to play Emlyn Williams's part on the screen. London critics considered Emlyn Williams's acting in "Night Must Fall" to be absolutely flawless. He is still under 30 and amazingly versatile. "Dead Men Tell No Tales" is said to be even more eerie and pathological than "Night Must Fall." It is a crime play that more than lives up to its ominous title—it is a study with terrific punch and tension. Emlyn Williams plays the key role, and his portrait of sly, diabolical villainy bears marks of genius. It is "Grande Guignol" stuff with a vengeance, and, as one London Pressman puts it, "Night Must Fall" is a bedtime story in comparison. Ihe high mortality rate (there are three murders and a full expiation of crime) is not, however, responsible for lack of logic in story design. In the expert hands of Emlyn Williams the melodrama carries complete conviction, and grips with a cold hand. It is a really blood-curdling thriller in a class of its own. YOUNG AUSTRALIANS. The Young Australians' revue and stage band was again accorded a hearty reception at the Opera House, Wellington, last night, and many of the audience ranked it as the finest revue seen for many years. Quite naturally, many had doubts before the show began that a troupe of boys in their teens could present a rapid-fire programme in polished professional style. However, all doubts had gone when they had seen the boys present their comedy, tapdancing, impersonations, and stageband work, with all the ease and aplomb of stage veterans. Not only do these boys handle everything in pro- | fessional style, but also .do they bring into their work a freshness that is captivating. Their comedy sketches are mirth-provoking, the stage settings are attractive and novel, and a complete 'orchestra accompanies every act.'After seeing this show, people will, realise why this Young Australian party has created record seasons in many parts of the-'world. There will be a matinee, on Saturday.