"LES MISERABLES"

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22231, 4 October 1935, Page 15

"LES MISERABLES"

EPIC STORY SCREENED An almost incredible triumph for the art of the cinema has been achieved with tho new 20th Century Pictures production of the immortal story "Les Miscrables," which will commence a season at the Regent _ next Friday. A private screening of this film in Auckland. yesterday was the most forceful evidence obtainable that, as a medium, the talking picture can even , add something to the qualities of the j world's greatest literature. The producers of* "Les Miserables" have not only achieved a distinction for themselves, but have rendered a service to the world of art as a whole. Of the author of the great classic, Victor Hugo, and of the story of "Les Miserables," its stark drama of brutalised galley slaves, its conflict of passions baso and noble, the triumph of a soul tested in tho fires of adversity, and its lesson of an abiding lovo—the world has long ago voiced its praise; and nothing thafc can be said now can add to that praise. Tho poet Swinburne called the story "the greatest epic and dramatic work of fiction ever created or conceived." It has, however, been loft to the present day to witness the talking picture interpretation of this wonderful story expressed through the superb art of Charles Laughton and Fredric March, Sir Cedric Hardwieke and Rochelle Hudson. That such a distinguished company of artists should be assembled for the picture is some indication of what it demands from its players, and also of its scope as a dramatic work. in such a satisfying example of artistic team work as "Les Miserables," it would bo out of harmony, even if it wero possible, to apportion praise. As Joan Valjean, the convict who became Mayor, and whom the law pursued relentlessly, March shows himself not only an actor of deep dramatic power, but a master of make-up. Ho has that quality of restraint which brings his characterisations vividly to life, and that rare ability to wrench the emotions by actions rather than by words. Of a "similar quality, though perhaps even inore subtle, is tho genius of Charles Laughton. It is a remarkable portrayal that he gives of Inspector Javert, the representative of the _ law who ruthlessly follows his principles even when they bring wreckage to blameless lives. "It is tho law which demands it," he says, and ho asks no other guide Ho is described best by his creator, Victor Hugo. "Javort," says the author, "is a worthy man, who honours by his rigorous and strict probity inferior but important functions." To sec Laughton doing this is worth goinc a long way. Sir Cedric Hardwieke, in the rolo of Bishop Bienvonu, plays an important part with a deeply sympathetic understanding of its requirements, while the' lovo interest is in the capable hands of Rochelle Hudson and John Beal. There is a lengthy supporting cast.