REFUGEES IN AMERICA

Evening Star, Issue 23723, 2 November 1940, Page 5

REFUGEES IN AMERICA

Tensely dramatic moments and highgeared romance are the prime ingredients of ‘ Three Faces West,’ the Republic picture which is at present being released by British Empire Films throughout New Zealand. Charles Coburn plays the role of the Viennese doctor, a refugee from a (Nazi concentration camp, who with his daughter, Leni (played iby Sigrid Gurie), escapes to America and finds a new home in a poverty-stricken community in the dust bowl.

Leni wants to tun away from the desolation to which they have come, and persuades her father to come with her, when the minister of the country church makes such a touching prayer of gratitude for their help that neither has the heart to leave.

Dust storms continue to rage, and the iettlors, led by John Phillips (played by John Wayne), start a migratory trek to new land in northern Oregon. Although John and Leni are in love, she has promised to marry Eric, one of her countrymen who had helped her and her father .to escape. The manner in which her’ obligation to Eric is broken provides most interesting and gripping film fare. Outstanding performances are given by Charles Coburn as the Viennese doctor, and by Sigrid Gurie as his daughter. John Wayne, as the leader of the farmers, is aptly suited for the role of the farmer, and gives an excellent performance. The three star players are ably supported by a cast which includes Spencer Charters, Sonny Bupp, Helen MacKellar, Trevor Bardette, Wolfgang Zizler, Wade Boteler, Russell Simpson, and Charles Waldron,