RHYTHM AND ROMANCE

Evening Star, Issue 21081, 19 April 1932, Page 5

RHYTHM AND ROMANCE

BRITISH MUSICAL FILM FOR EMPIRE Bewitching Vienna, with its fascinating charm, sparkling music belonging to the ages; the tinkle of glasses and revelry in the night air that breathes romance and the wild abandon of youth. Such is how Vienna is exemplified in the British Dominions’ film, ‘ The Beggar Student,’ which commences a season at the Empire Theatre on Friday. You are converted by the unnatural realism of the production from a sober motion picture audience to gay harlequins who live for rhythm and romance. The emotional effect this picture has on one is hard to describe, but it is sufficient to say that you are transplanted bodily to the very heights of screen entertainment.

Lance Fairfax (yes, the same brilliant artist who appeared as the “ Red Shadow ” in the celebrated musicale, ‘The Desert Song,’ which had a triumphant season in Australia and New Zealand a short time ago) occupies the stellar role as the “ beggar student ” who is forced to make love to the beautiful Countess Tania at the instigation of a jealous colonel who is desirous of being wedded to Tania. Shirley Dale, noted English operatic star, is one of the most beautiful specimens of English young womanhood to be seen on _ the talking picture screen for some time. .Possessing not only a beautiful voice, but bewitching looks and a personality that forces you to take her to your hearts immediately you hear the first golden note issue from her throat. Mark Daly, who also made the acquaintance of Dunedin audiences over the footlights some < years ago, looks after the lighter vein in a most capable manner ns the sergeant who was particularly partial to a pretty girhs smile. An all-star cast supports the principals, and having been especially selected on their personal and individual talents the host performance possible is rendered by every member; the film was directed by that greatest authority of motion picture direction Jpfea Haxvsi*