THE PICTURE HOUSES.

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XII, Issue 244, 28 September 1922, Page 5

THE PICTURE HOUSES.

MUNICIPAL. “CARNIVAL.” That the management qf the Hastings Municipal Theatre are doing their utmost to satisfy' the needs of picture patrons, and at the same time to provide an atmosphere in keeping with the particular picture presented, was in evidence last evening, when one was forcibly struck, on entering the vestibule of the theatre, with the remarkable change effected. Hanging from the top were Venetian lanterns and streamers, and coloured electric bulbs were artistically interwoven. On the dress circle landing statuary was placed and scenes of Venice were displayed on the walls. Inside the theatre a soothing light was effected by coloured globes, the orchestral well was draped with flags and on the stage hung the Union Jack and the New Zealand ensign, all betraying that the long-looked-for British picture ‘“Carnival,” was about to be screened. So much had been heard of “Carnival” that one was almost inclined to disbelieve the statements, for more often than not one is sadly disappointed. but last night’s production more than earned the high reputation that had heralded it. For a more lavish production it is hard to conceive, or a more masterly interpretation than that given by Matheson Lang as the actor Silvio, fjlayiiij?. the leading role in “Othello.” when he is maddened by the actual suspicion c 7 his wife, has not been seen for a considerable time. Hilda Bayley, as Simonetta, Silvio’s wife, also gives a finished interpretation, and the other supporting artists, all taking important parts in the unfolding of rhe drama, are equally successful. The scenery and lighting are beyond praise and Britishers should be proud of the fact that such a picture as “Carnival” has been released from British studios. Clara Kimball Young also appears in a Spanish drama laid in old California “For the Soul of Rafael.” A gazette completes the finest programme that has been seen at the theatre. COSY DE LUXE. “Hail the Woman,” the picturisation of actual life as lived by millions, and the greatest achievement of Thomas H. Ince, pioneer motion picture producer, commened screening at the Cosy last evening. Florence Vidor takes the leading role, that of Judith Beresford. It is that of a highminded, sensitive daughter of the New England Hills, whose soul rises in revolt against man’s immemorial cruelty and injustice to woman. Playing opposite to Miss Vidor is dainty little Madge Bellamy, the newest star in the motion picture firmament. She takes the part of Nan, th© loyal, abused girl-wife. Theodore Roberts, masterful interpreter of character roles, takes the part of dour and grim Oliver Beresford, pillar of the church, and bigoted advocate of the immemorial, made-made law “Men and their sons first.” It is a picture which preserves the tender illusion of Romance in the midst of an atmosphere of stirring reality, introducing powerful situations, splendidly enacted, into the surroundings of everyday life. Iliis great play acts as a mental stimulant, reflecting an animated drama of the very heart of things and containg flashes of delicate humour deftly interjected with a masterly touch of spontaneity and understanding of human nature. A comedy, a further chapter of “Stanley in Africa” and gazettes are the supports.