Amusements

Northern Advocate, 14 January 1939, Page 5

Amusements

Thrills And Laughs At The Regent

For ,a thoroughly entertaining evening the double feature attraction that opened its season at the Regent last night is to be recommended.

With Peter Lorre as the mysterious Mr Moto, in a mystery drama that takes its title from the principal figure, the .audience was held by a plot that has international ramifications. The story opens with a sensational escape from the notorious Devil’s Island, quickly moving to London where a ring of crooks threaten the life of a Prague steel manufacturer, resident in London. How the mysterious Japanese, member of the International police, succeeds in foiling the gang and bringing about the downfall of its leader, makes a gripping story. It is thrilling without horrors and is touched with humour. Supporting artists include Mary Maguire, Henry Wilcoxon, Erik Rhodes and Harold Huber.

Peter Lorre, starred as a tramp in “I’ll Give a Million,” the second big picture of the bracket, again demonstrates rare ability. Whilst in “The Mysterious Mr Moto” he bids fair to rival the famous Charlie Chan, in understudying Warner Baxter in the second picture, he gives & delightful performance as the simple tramp, rescued by a millionaire who, exasperated by parasitic friends, says he will give a million francs to the person who shows him kindness for himself alone. How a sensational newspaper story creates a paradise for tramps—and scores of amusing situations—is part of a plot that guarantees a laugh.

Among the most popular actors in the caste is “Shorty,” a chimpanzee. After all it is he who brings the circus heroine and the millionaire together.

and without him this comedy romance would have lacked much of its fun.