England’s Classic Contribution To the Screen

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 39, 16 February 1938, Page 11

England’s Classic Contribution To the Screen

H. RIDER HAGGARD’S “KING SOLOMON’S MINES”

(State: Screening Friday week.) During the past six months or so there has been a dearth of brilliant film adaptations of story classic. “Les Miserables,” “David Copperfield,” “Little Women” are but three productions that come to one’s mind. Strangely enough, England has contributed hut little to the really excellent classic productions to date, but now at last we have seen an English film that will rank with any previous classic brought to the screen. For sheer entertainment and unexcelled pictorial presentation of the author’s original ideas, “King Solomon’s Mines” takes first place in to-day’s film world.

H. Rider Haggard has been responsible for adventurous, imaginative tales that have thrilled readers since the ’eighties and will continue to do so for years to come. These stories have all the glamour and romance that appeals to any imagination, and “King Solomon’s Mines” is probably the best of these. It is ideal film material, and as adapted and presented by G.-8.-D. under the direction of Robert Stevenson, it is definitely Britain’s film triumph and intense, exciting entertainment.

The story of Kathy O ’Brien and her diamond-mining father who obtain a wagon life from a hunter, Allan Quartermain, and who are later joined by Commander Good and Sir Henry Curtis, explorer and adventurer, with the powerfully built Umbopa for driver and guide, makes interesting material. O ’Brien then disappears with a map he has obtained, supposedly locating the fabulously rich diamond mines—and the party, following in the wake of Kathy who has gone in search of her father, takes an interest in the proceedings. From the moment they are captured by Zulus and Umbopa reveals himself as their Tiglitful King, the story builds up to a thrilling and powerful climax that involves fierce tribal wars, gruesome mischief by witch-doctors and an enormous volcanic upheaval. These scenes have been brilliantly and realistically produced, and the tribal war and celebration scenes in which thousands 'of natives take part are both impressive and spectacular. As Umbopa, Paul Robeson has never been seen to better advantage. He sings three songs during the action of the film in glorious voice, and acts with conviction. Sharing all honours is Cedric Hardwicke as Allan Quartermain, adventurer. This convincing English star adds but one more characterisation to his successful list. Roland Young makes Commander Good an interesting, friendly little fellow with brilliance, and the romantic interest is sincerely handled by Anna Lee and John Loder. This is a picture for everybody,