From the Hub

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 171, 22 July 1939, Page 13

From the Hub

DEAR COGS, I have some important news from “Film Land” to convey to you to-day, concerning the screening in our city of “Hei Tiki” which is a picture every New Zealander should see because it was filmed at Taupo, enacted entirely by Maoris, and is a monument to the glory of our Native race. Perhaps you would like to know something about it. ‘ ‘ Hei Tiki ’ ’ according to Maori legend, is a jade or bone ornament symbolic of earthly romance and the legend is a simple story which re-enacts native belief that the God of War will appear to a tribe and demand a bride. The legend has it that the daughter of a Chieftain must be given as a bride for the War God, who appears in a cloud of smoke. The maiden love 3 a warrior of a rival tribe and so her lover impersonates the god and carries her off amid the acclamation of her tribe. But joy changes t>D anger when they discover they have been tricked. There is terrible conflict between the two tribes but finally the old chief realises he is beaten and agrees to a truce. The acting is natural, the settings have their natural charm and the presentation of the legend in such a manner—that a happy reconciliation of the two tribes is effected —is little short of remarkable. You will And a scene reproduced from the film on the Page and as the season opens to-day many of you will have tne opportunity of seeing New Zealand s own picture. We have to welcome a number of new Cogs again this week. How this family is growing! All my love,

Your friend, THE HUB,