ENTERTAINMENTS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIX, Issue 23, 24 December 1938, Page 3

ENTERTAINMENTS

REGENT THEATRE “THE CROWD ROARS.” “The Crowd Roars” is screening now at the Regent ‘ Theatre and will continue for an extended season of one week. As Tommy McCoy, the boy who fought his way from the slums to the heights, Robert Taylor presents the finest, most vigorous acting job he lias ever essayed in “The Crowd Roars.” Here is the answer to the plea for action in pictures, with Taylor putting ever ounce of energy and ability into his'first prize-fight role. The picture is packed with thrills, warm romance, and gripping suspense. A cast of champions supports the star: Frank Mor gan as his father, ex-vaudeville trouper; Edward Arnold as the gambler behind the scenes of the fight game; Maureen O’Sullivan as his daughter, and June Wyman as her school chum and rival for Taylor’s affections; William Gargan as the ex-light-heavyweight champion killed in the ring by Taylor, hia former pupil. Lionel Slander as the star’s trainer; Nat Pendleton as Arnold’s gambling rival; Isabel Jewell as Gargan's wife; Gene Reynolds as Tommy McCoy as a boy. Every one makes a standout of his or her characterisation. Early reservations for all holiday sessions are strongly advised. Box plans are now open at Colhiison anti Cunningham*’*, 'phono 7176 Be wise and be early!

MAYFAIR THEATRE

“BLOCKHEADS.” One of the liveliest and funniest bits of him entertainment, “Blockheads,” new Hal Roach-M.G.M. production starring the everpopular Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardv, shows to-night at the Mayfair Theatre. In this now comedy the comedians revert to their former for- • inula an abundance of new gags, familiar mannerisms, and ludicrous situations. Their side-splitting antics are not deterred by spectacular background or musical interludes. They have free scope for the kind of humour their fans expect. Stan is a front-page newspaper celebrity in “Blockheads,” not through his own initiative, but through one of the funniest introductions that the screen has reflected. Although lie tells Hardy that ho is not so dumb as he used to be, fortunately his actions belie his words. Hardy is the successful business man, taking vast pride in his swank apartment and in the house-keeping capabilities of his wife. The introduction of Stan, although he is momentarily the nation’s hero, into these surroundings precipitates a merry-go-round that spins dizzily until the final fade-out, which is a surprise finish. The supporting cast, small but of stellar calibre, plays well into the.hands of Laurel and Hardy. Patricia Ellis. exhibits an unsuspected flair for comedy. As the wife of the big-game hunter, living across the hall from the Hardy’s apartment, she flits in and out of the picture with grace and charm. Minna Gombcll, • cast as Hardy’s shrewish wife, exacts every bit of humour from the role.