'SUSAN LENOX-HER RISE AND FALL'

Evening Star, Issue 21093, 4 May 1932, Page 11

'SUSAN LENOX-HER RISE AND FALL'

GRETA GARBO EXCELS Greta Garbo achieved the finest performance of her career as the heroine of ‘ Susan Lennox—Her Rise and Fall,’ a Metro-Gold wyn-Mayer, which commences at the St. James Theatre on Friday. Some critics have expressed the opinion that Garbo’s appearance in talkies has been marked by cumbersome vehicles with a tendency toward stilted action. Certainly no such complaint can be made of the picturisation of the David Graham Phillips novel modernised and directed by Robert Z. Leonard with skilful treatment and artistic presentation. The new Garbo picture, which further introduces the striking Clark Gable as a romantic hero, packs more action and visual entertainment than any other talking picture screened in Dunedin for many months. It moves at a swift pace, sweeps towards a rapid tempo with fast-changing transitions that keep the interest ever kindled with expectations. The novel was adapted for the screen by Wanda Tuchock, with dialogue by Zelda Sears and Edith Fitzgerald. Leonard has turned in a fine piece of work with his smooth direction, splendid camera employment, and able judgment in handling the many difficult situations in the dramatic plot. The story is one of regeneration from an entirely different angle. In it Garbo plays the part of a , Swedish farmgirl, hounded by cruel circumstances into the world where she fights her battle with life in her own primitive way. The supporting cast is particularly fine, including such players as Jean Hersholt, John Miljan, Alan Hale, Hale Hamilton, Hilda Vaughn, Russell Simpson, Cecil Cunningham, and fan Keith. Whatever you do, do not miss this grand- show. Box plans now open at The Bristol.