ENTERTAINMENTS

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 23 February 1925, Page 4

ENTERTAINMENTS

GR AND THE ATRE—TO-NIGHT “BABY PEGGY.” “Captain January” ie one of those films which tell a simple story clearly and beautifully ( and awaken gentle emotions and kindly feelings. There is plenty of “hum|»n interest” in this tale of a waif of the sea and her gruff old guardian, the keeper of the little lighthouse on the Maine coast. Her story is one of the oldest stories in the world and one of the best. Even the happy ending seems inevitable. The thousands of Captain January’s admirers, who know her in the pages of Laura E. Richards’ book, will be augmented by the millions who will see “Captain January” on the screen. “Captain January” ie a delightful screen story for young folks and old. It will be seen at the Grand Theatre to-night, supported by a Mack Sennett comedy entitled “Flip Flops.” OPERA HOUSE. “THE THIEF OF BAGDAD.” Douglas Fairbanks has never appeared to better advantage than in his latest film, “The Thief of Bagdad.” planned and composed by himself, which will be shown at the Opera House to-night. The actor-author has evolved a story which holds together. It has a beginning, a middle and an end. Though a modern concoction, it follows the approved pattern of classical Eastern legends, and is based on a moral precept “Happiness must be earned.” Subservient to this, a second abstract motive reveals itself, as the story unfolds—regeneration through love. “The Thief of Bagdad” consists of two distinct parts. In the first is shown a fairy Bagdad, an interesting demonstration of what the screen can yield when an artist’s imagination is allowed free scope. The atmosphere of the East is remarkably well preserved. The vivid panorama of the picturesque streets, the imposing and quaint architectural conceits, the riot of sumptuous costumes, all help to create and prolong the illusion, especially as the photography is masterly. In the second part it carries the spectators far into the realms of fantasy, and the story proper is completely overshadowed by the marvellous. One' marvel follows another in breathless succession. Finally the climax is reached. The thief of Bagdad, regenerated and reinstated in his own esteem, carries off the prize he has literally gone through fire and water to obtain. Miss Julianne Johnston, as' the Princess, is picturesque and beautiful, especially in the very pretty scene where she is lulled to sleep by her three charming attendants. The rest of the numerous cast all contribute to make “The Thief of Bagdad” a thoroughlv enjoyable entertainment. The curtain will rise each evening at 7.45 on the prologue. The box plan is open; no bookirfg fee.