ENTERTAINMENTS

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 October 1939, Page 12

ENTERTAINMENTS

OPERA HOUSE — Not* Showing's “BOYS’ TOWN.”

Spencer 'Tracy and Mickey Rooney, re-united for the first time since their memorable performances in Captains Courageous,” which won Tracy the Academy Award, are starred in the great heart drama, “Boys’ Town.” to be screened at the Opera House tonight, to-morrow and Monday. For the first time in his career. Tracy portrays a living man on the screen. Father Edward J. Flannigan, one of the greatest humanitarians of this day, who served as technical adviser on the production. True-life story of bather Flannigan, the film reveals his dramatic 21-year struggle to found a home for neglected and abandoned boys. More than a year ago the studio became interested in “Boys’ Town,” the only incorporated village of its kind in the world. This city of little men, governed and operated by youngsters, who range in age from G to IS, has a population of 275, of which 200 are boys, and is situated on the main highway west of Omaha Nebraska. It was from Father Flannigan’s files, the records left by his boys, that the rich material for “Boys’ Town” was found. In gripping terms of human drama, it tells the battle waged by Father Flannigan to save boys from lives of crime, and’ his problem with one boy who thought he was too tough for Boys’ Town. To assure fidelity in the spirit and background, a motion picture company of 135 spent three weeks at Father Flannigan’s home, filming authentic scenes for the picture. Tracy’s portrayal of Father Tim in “San Francisco” made him the perfect choice to play the role of Father Flannigan. Father Flannigan thought so, too, and it was Tracy’s selection for the part that influenced him (Father Flannigan) to approve the filming. Mickey Rooney was picked to play opposite Tracy as a bad boy, after his outstanding work in “Love Finds Andy Hardy," and “The Boy From Barnardos.” Featured in the supporting cost are Henry Hull, Leslie Fenton, Gene Reynolds and Bobs Watson.

REGENT—FinaI Screening of “FRA B1AV0L0” and “SILVER ON THE SAGE.”. Commencing Saturday: “TAIL SPIN” and “INSIDE STORY.” “Tail Spin,” told for the first time, is the exciting story of women of the sky, their split-second escapes and the heart-throbs behind their spectacular lives. Rarely has the screen dealt with a more compelling theme than this, and rarely has it succeeded in maintaining such breathless suspense from beginning to end. Instead of attempting to cover the entire history of aviation, the directors strive to show what induces these women to fly and, in singling out Trixie, Gerry and Lois for subjects, have succeeded in making the finest picture of its kind ever presented 1 . With Alice Faye, Constance Bennett and NancyKelly in the starring roles and each contributing splendid performances “Tail Spin” is as notable for its acting as it is for its theme. The versatile Alice Faye tops any performance she has given in her lustrous career while the fast-rising young Nancy Kelly again displays the unusua 1 talent that made her a star overnight. Constance Bennett in a role totally different from anything she has ever played, gives a sincere and convincing portrayal of the girl who had too much money for her own good. A fine supporting cast headed by Joan Davis, Charles Farrell, Jane Wyman, Kane Richmond, Wally Vernon, Joan Valerie and Edward Norris, handles its roles skilfully. THE ASSOCIATE FEATURE. With Michael Whalen and Chick Chandler in the roles of two reporters who get up to their typewriters in mystery, and Jean Rogers as the cause of all the excitement, “Inside Story” gets off to a fast start and maintains a terrific pace from beginning to end. There’s an abundance of action, comedy and romance in this new hit. In addition to Michael Whalen, Jean Rogers and Chick Chandler, a fine cast features Douglas Fowley, John King and Jane Darwell. Patrons are advised to make early reservations for these excellent race night attractions. ’Phone 601.

POPEYE CLUB. Every boy and girl attending the matinee on Saturday will receive a free gift from “The Lone Ranger.” LABOUR DAY BALL. A record attendance at Schaef’s Hall on Monday night is an absolute certainty, when the annual Labour Night ball -will be the star social attraction for race week-end. Three capable Masters of Ceremony will control the floor, the full Marina Orchestra will supply the music, all announcements and music will be amplified to all parts of the large hall, and a splendid supper will be provided by an enthusiastic committee.