FREEDOM FROM CONTRACTS

Hawera Star, Volume LIV, 22 August 1935, Page 8

FREEDOM FROM CONTRACTS

A recent law case regarding the future of Robert Donat, the young English star, which he contested successfully, has resulted in this famous actor’s complete, freedom from -contracts which, might have tended to turn him into a specialised type. He has decided to make most of- his future films in England, and at the same time to continue without interference his stage career. It is probable that he will make a maximum of one or two pictures in Hollywood as well. liis first London film will be “The Laying of the Glourie Ghost” (previously entitled “Sir Tristram Goes West”). In this film, which will be directed by Bene Clair, Robert Donat will play a /dual role. He will be seen as a young -Scottish nobleman of to-day and will also take the part of the ghost of his own ancestor. This picture should prove to be one of the most original, witty and amusing entertainments of the year. It is probable that he will be starred as Hamlet or Romeo, as screen versions of both these plays are under consideration for production. It has long been the ambition of Robert Donat to play Romeo. © Art of Costuming.

Although Travis Banton, famous Hollywood stylist, designed only the gowns worn by Carole Lombard, George Raft’s co-star in the Paramount picture, “Rumba,” which will screen at the Grand Theatre on Thursday and Friday, the balance of the cast did not want for expert aid on their costumes. Senorita Lily Del Barrio, one of Cuba’s leading artists, was engaged by Paramount to create the Cuban costumes worn by the other members of the cast. Daughter of Manuel Del Barrio, Cuban artist and attorney, the Senorita was born and reared in Havana, but learned the art of -costuming in New York, where she was educated. More than fifty original designs by Senorita Del Barrio are used to costume the players in “Rumba.” Margo, the petite Mexican dancer; Lynne Overman, Monroe Owsley and Iris Adrian head the cast of supporting players.

Nautical Atmosphere. There has been a very nautical atmosphere about the Associated Talking Pictures studios, London, where they have been filming that rollicking story by Captain Marryat, “Midshipman Easy.” Ilughie Green, the. wellknown stage, screen and wireless star, will play the part of the hero, while his great friend, “Gascoigne,” will be played by Tom Gill, the youthful actor who made such a hit as the office boy in J. B. Priestley’s play “Cornelius.” By a curious coincidence these two lads are inseparable friends in real life, so they should be able to depict well the famous friendship of the two midshipmen. Lewis Casson plays Mr Easy, and for Mesty, the huge negro, a magnificent choice has been made —W. R. Adams, the coloured actor, ideal in build, appearance and diction for this important part. In “Midshipman Easy” there will be some ■ rollicking choruses and sea shanties..