TOWN HALL TALKIES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 4418, 13 November 1934, Page 2

TOWN HALL TALKIES.

JOHN BARRYMORE FEATURE

“A perfect gem in a perfect 1 setting,” best describes the flawless “Counsellor at Law,” Universal’s gripping and at the same time humorous picturisation of the three (lav crisis in the life of the greatest criminal lawyer in New York City, starring John Barrymore. “Counsellor at Law’” is the headliner at the Town Hall to-morrow night. With Barrymore is an excellent supporting cast, including Bebe Daniels, Doris Kenyon, Onslow Stevens, Melvyn Douglas, Isabel Jewell and Mayo Methot of the screen, and ten players who originated their roles in the, sensational. Elmer Rice stage play which was presented for two years on Broadway. The story concerns a successful lawyer who came to America as an immigrant. At the height of his cai-eer, he is faced with disbarment and the loss of his selfish socialite wife, whom he loves dearly. How he manages to solve his problems must remain with the reader who undoubtedly will want to see the splendid performance. The picture has the knack of perfectly characterising each player, no matter how small the part may be, leaving the audience Avith the feeling that all is knoAvn about everyone in the cast. This is partially due to the fact that Elmer Rice wrote the screen OaV for Universal as well as the original stage production and that William Wyler, the director, understood every value. Wyler seems to have the ability Avhich will send hihi to the foremost directorial ranks Barrvmore is at his best.