ENTERTAINMENTS.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 2 June 1927, Page 2

ENTERTAINMENTS.

“VARIETY.u

A CONTINENTAL MASTERPIECE

Revealing an entirely new aspect ot cinema production, the Continental masterpiece “Variety” was keenly followed by a large audience at the Opera House last evening, when it commenced a two-night season. The basis of the plot is commonplace, dealing with the domestic triangle caused by a wife’s affection for another and more attractive man, but the story is handled in an unusual manner, and, true to title, concerns passages in the lives of variety artists. The somewhat sordid phases are quaintly mingled with the gaiety and glamour of the Hamburg and Berlin carnivals, and the famous Wintergarten of the latter capital, giving an ensemble effect such as is .seldom obtained in the popular drama. Considerable interest centres on the different styles of acting and photography followed by the German producers. The acting throughout Is of the heavy type, and the picture abounds in close-ups of the various performers, who are consequently set a much more difficult task than the average American Stars. Circus scenes play a prominent part in “Variety,” and plenty of thrills are provided by the trapeze stunts of the “Three Artiniellis,” whose performance holds the onlookers spellbound. These daring movements, combined with the bitter hatred which one of the trio bears towards another, indicate the logical revenge which the former might take with comparative safety to himself, and the manner in which Boss Huller .actually becomes avenged comes as a surprise. In the principal role Emil .Tannings gives an excellent characterisation, while as his 'faithless spouse Lya de Putti proves herself to be an actress of unique ability. “Variety” will conclude its Hawera season to-night. The box plan is open at the theatre confectionery shop.

GRANT? THEATRE TONIGHT

“STAGE MADNESS.”

. A fine human-interest- story, with suspense and thrills, as well as pathos and humour, mark Victor Schertzinger’.s most recent release, for Fox Films, “Stage Madhess,” which opened a twonight season at the Grand Theatre last night. Virginia Valli has the feminine lead. It is the life-story of a beautiful Parisian actress who comes to America seeking happiness after separating from her artist-husband. In the l strong supporting cast, Tullio Carmenati and Lou Tellegen give perfect portrayals of hero and villain, respectively, while young Richard Walling is very appealing in the part of the young lover. On the whole, this is an especially fine picture and one that held the intenest throughout. The supporting programme includes Episode 6 of the serial “Strings of Steel.”