REGENT

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXIII, Issue 11956, 29 May 1933, Page 2

REGENT

f SMfILIN’ THROUGH.

In spite of the inclement weather huge crowds attended the oponing of “Smilin’ Through.” Seldom has such an imposing cast been assembled in a talking play as that which interprets the pofpjnant Metro-Golct-wyn-Mayer romance, “Smilin’ Through.” It has been acclaimed unanimously by overseas critics, one of whom writes: r: ‘Smilin’ Through}’ is the best romjantic drama since 'talkies’ began. Although overpower i ugly emotional, it never insults one’s intelligence. The director, the players, and the well-known writers who adapted the story taken great care to avoid pathos, while extracting every drop of pathos from every situation. It is full of deeply appealing scenes, directed with impeccable taste, and acted with understanding. The film traces the wartime romance of Kathleen (Norma 'W.o-w) to the love tragedy, many years before, of her guardiajn, . Sir John Carteret (Leslie Howard) and her aunt, Moonvoen. Kathleen falls Li love with the man who broke up her guardian’s life, and Sir John ivies to persuade her to give him up by telling her the story of hi s own shattered romance, which is smoothly achieved in the film by clever photography. In this retrospective sequence, Norma Shearer, and Fted'Hc March.both appear as the ancestors -of the characters they play in the later part of the film, while Leslie Howard changes from an °ld man into a gay young lover. The supporting programme includes “The Flying Codonas” in a sensational trapeze act and Sir Harry Lauder singing. “She’s ma Daisy.”