Ami Harding Seen in Talkie “The Fountain”

Manawatu Times, Volume 60, Issue 31, 6 February 1935, Page 5

Ami Harding Seen in Talkie “The Fountain”

A DOUBLE FEATURE BILL THAT WILL SURELY APPEAL

(State: Serening To-day.)

“The Fountain,” by Charles Morgan, probably the most highlypraised novel of 1932, is one of the most powerful love stories ever written, and one in which the eternal triangle is treated in a big and noble way. An engrossing story, distinguished writing, big emotional scenes, all unforgettably sympathetic, made this novel a hit, and necessitated the printing ot more than 200,000 copies before the publication of the reprint editions was begun.

The verdict of the literary world can be summarised in. the words of Harry Hansen, book critic of the N.Y. World Telegram: “A fine story, lived by two persons who are both highly intuitive and deeply intelligent, who can pause and analyse their own inner compulsions even while they taste the ecstasy of earthly love.” “The Fountain,” as a story, comes to the screen with an unusual prestige impelling it to triumph. A dramatic cross-section of life, as represented by the inmates of an internment castle in neutral Holland during the World War, where the reflections of the great conflict highlight their affairs, is seen in this BKO-Badio current production, starring Ann Harding.

An endeavour is made to illustrate that the greatest thing in life is the attainment of spiritual nobility. In the progress of a suspenseful triangular love complication, each of the principals vies to accomplish a sacrifice. After the woman scorns to have won with the greatest sacrifice, her husband’s death relinquishes her to her despairing lover. Playing opposite Miss Harding is Brian Aherno, English screen star, as the aviator, and Paul Lukas as the husband whose philosophy endears him to the hearts of the two people who might have robbed him of love. Direction of “The Fountain” is accredited to John Cromwell, director of such recent hits as “Of Human Bondage” and “Double Harness.” The supporting cast includes Jean Hersholt, Violet Kemblc-Cooper, Kalph Forbes, Sarah Haden, and many others.

Advice comes from British and Dominion Films that Mr George Bernard Shaw has just completed a film “treatment” of his famous play, “Saint Joan,” in which Elizabeth Bergner will play the leading role. Interviewed recently regarding this announcement, Miss Bergner was as excited as a schoolgirl. Sho indicated, however, that the film will not be made for a few months.