ENTERTAINMENTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22344, 15 February 1936, Page 19

ENTERTAINMENTS

j PLAZA THEATRE v'. I Very enjoyable entertainment is preK tented in "D'ye Ken John Peel" and & <<Gav Love," two English films, which m commenced a season at the Plaza Mm Theatre yesterday. One of the most m romantic periods in English history IU- forms the background for Dye Ken ill V jj n Peel," a stirring tale of highway&W , en dicins and love in the year of y ; pV Waterloo. Deftly woven in with the |||i il st m oving action of the story is much jfGp delightful singing 'of famous English { Jl' tin I lads Besides the well-known song K from which tho production derives its t '"Sen l aXft: fprink to Me Only'; and "Nature'. mm T lillnbv " John/Garnck, who has apV Feared on the New Zealand stage as it Reginald Dandy, has the leading male M- role. Garrick will be remembered for m his fine performances in Lily of Ki - II i rnev" and "The Broken Melody," m and is seen as Major John reel, master of Samesbury Hal and owner of the kwt rack of hounds in England. PlayI ing opposite him is Winifred Shottcr, Sir J,mure heroine of many Aldwycli farces, 3,0 reveals an equal talent for costume melodrama.., John Stuart plays the rile of Captain Moonlight, an attracts- IL highwayman who saves the hero's i|jk ;L One of the most delightful scenes _ the picture is presented by Stanley n„llmvnv the North of England comedian, who appears as Sam Small, Major m- Peel's batman during the Waterloo cam--ian Sam is none other than the Slier made famous in Mr. Holloway's world-renowned recitation about the man who refused to "pick up his musket" and thus delayed the Battle " of Waterloo until the Duke of Wellington had himself pleaded with him. Additional attraction is given the him by «#'. many delightful scenes of rural England', excellently photographed. The astociate picture, "Gay Love, a British and Dominions film, is a gay comedy with good acting, neat dialogue and a well-handled plot. The principal player is Florence Desmond, whose impersonations of famous film stars are the best p f their kind. Mae West, Greta Garbo and Zasu Pitts are among those whom A F he imitates almost to perfection. A first-class performance is also given by gvdney Fail-brother, who plays the part of housekeeper, maid and theatrodresser. "Gav Love" is a most enjoyable film because of the sincere and hearty laughter it evokes. MAJESTIC THEATRE A novelty to 'the screen, and some-, thine novel in musical fare, is provided in "Here Comes the Band,' which opened its Auckland season at. the Majestic Theatre yesterday. The plot is one of gay romance and humour, centring around a series of popular songs, while Ted Lewis and liis hand, in making their first appearance on the screen, have brought _ a pleasing form of musical _ entertainment. The principal song is "Headin' E : Home," which is a new type _of American music, while other musical features are, "Roll Along Prairie Moon," "You're My Thrill," Ted Lewis' number with McFarland and s?v Vallet, and a musical sequence in Court. Lewis introduces and sings his own specialties, such as "Me and My <v Shadow," "Peanuts." "When My Babv Smiles," and "Wear a Hat with a Silver Lining." The "Peanuts" number, in particular, is in a spectacular setting with a fine chorus. The story itself is centred about the song "Headin' Home," and in a fictional plagiarism suit which takes place con- - . rerning it, between a young singer irho has come to New York to seek his fortune, and a wealthy publisher of songs, its authorship is proved by a demonstration in Court. The Court scene is unique. Indians, negroes, cowIbys and others sing in _ choruses, component parts of the music originating in their folk songs. In this courtroom ensemble a chorus of 40 negroes : J for spirituals, 12 Indians, and a double quartet of authentic cowboy singers provide a fine and unusual entertainment. A well-chosen cast, which is led by Ted Lewis, includes Virginia Bruce, Ted Healy, Nat Peudleton, H Harry Stockwell. The pro- ; gramme, opening with a descriptive travel picture of the Pacific, is of a high standard. Incidents in the All • Black-England test match are shown, while a hilarious ghost comedy is prot rided by the popular Charlie Chase. The supporting programme concludes *ith a colour cartoon with bright musical numbers.

national theatre Scenes of intense excitement during; the hunt for a ghostly murderer amid the passages of a haunted house are included in "Charlie Chan's Secret,' which has been secured for screening at the National' Theatre. Warner Oland gives another delightful characterisation as the bland Chinese detective, a character which he has made a favourite with Auckland theatregoers. Armed with an endless number of quips, quaint sayings and metaphorical Eastern proverbs, Chan shows great perspicacity and thoroughness in his pursuit of the murderer. The latter's eventual discovery is a triumph of logic and perseverance. An, entertaining Shirley Temple production, "Pardon My Pups,' ,is a further attraction, and Buster Keaton, the popular comedian of the silent screen, has a prominent role in "Tars and Stripes." Excellent supporting pictures comprise the remainder of the programme. STAR CINEMA After a successful season in Queen Street, the outstanding film, " Splendour," has been transferred to the Star Cinema. Based on the modern, sophisticated drama of the same name, the film has an absorbingly interesting plot dealing with many problems of the present day. as the wife of a young member of the very idle > rich section °f the community, Miriam Hopkins gives a typically brilliant performance., "laying opposite to her is Joel Mcßea, *ho was with her in " Barbary l-oast," which' was recently shown in Auckland. A most attractive supporting programme has been arranged. EMPRESS THEATRE Delightful cdmedy is provided in "In Kentucky," which heads the programme being presented at the Empress Theatre. The late Will Rogers is jhe principal. Warner Oland is seen at his best in the part of the bland Chinese detective in "Charlie Chan in Shanghai," the second attraction. LONDON CINEMA Ralph Bellamy and Shirley Grey have jfift important roles in "The Crime of « e len Stanley." now at the London '"Sky Bride," with Jack Oakie a od Richard Arlen, completes the programme. PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE . A musical production with a cast Ramon Novarro and Jeanette ?lacDonald, "The Cat and the Fiddle." I ln g screened with "Operator 13" the Prince Edward Theatre.

ADELPHI THEATRE ((J? 116 of the finest films of all time, Ine Three Musketeers,"' heads the gramme being presented at the «delphi Theatre. "Dressed to Thrill" * IBO is being shoivn. ASTOR THEATRE . The historical film, "Give of India," maturing Ronald Colman and Loretta J> Un g, will be screened at tho Astor t°~ n '£ht. There will be a Wight supporting programme.

ST. JAMES* THEATRE How dangerous is the calling of an animal trainer is perhaps the most impressive feature of the thrilling drama "O'Shaughnessy's Boy," which opened a season at St. James' Theatre yesterday. The picture is a talo of the circus and vividly illustrates the power that man can attain over even the most ferocious animals, providing he has the nerve and perseverance. By forcing.a tiger to leap on to tho back of an elephant and then to make both go through a burning hoop, Wallace Beery performs one of tho most exciting acts. This is but one ot the episodes, however, for "O'Shaugnessy's Boy" is a picture of action, eveil although the theme is ouo of a father's Jove for his son. As Windy, the trainer. Beery is a man whose life is bound up with the circus. His wife, Cora, played by Leona Maricle, is a trapeze artist, who hates her profession, and who, urged on by her sister Martha (Sarah Haden), runs away, taking their small son "Stubby" with her. Windy is devoted to the boy and, desolated at the fact that he cannot discover his whereabouts, breaks down in health and, more important, loses his nerve. He is savagely attacked by a tiger when endeavouring to perform a particularly hazardous trick, and for a period is confined to a hospital with terrible wounds. On his discharge he begins a search for the boy which, although it lasts for years, is finally successful. Cora lias died in the meantime, however, and the boy has beoome estranged to his father, a condition that has been brought about by the vigorous tongue of Martha, who has nothiqg 'ess than hatred for Windy. How father and son are eventually united in sympathies makes a pleasant ending to the picture. Apart from Beery perhaps the best acting is provided by Jackie Cooper, as Stubby, although Martha is -excdrtlent in a difficult part. Clarence Muse, as Jeff, tho negro, always manages to see . life on tho bright side and never fails to raise a laugh. Of a remarkably fine supporting programme a newsreel depicting England's defeat of the All Blacks is the outstanding feature. Both of Princo Obolenskv's lightning tries aro shown. Another excellent item is a coloured film of Mexican rural life. CIVIC THEATRE " The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo," which commenced its Auckland season at the Civic Theatre yesterday, finds Ronald Colman in a role that is ideally suited to his talents and in'a picture which measures up to .the highest standards of screen entertainment. The immaculate figure and the whimsical personality, which have won Colman his countless admirers, will not fail to attract again, for a picture that is as humorous and romantic as "Tho Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo" gives full scope for an artistry that has become a byword among the majority of cinema patrons. It embraces the 'type of comedy in which this actor has flo peer. He is as debonair as ever and there is that polish and finish to his work which always make his performances delightful. This time he is a Russian prince, in reduced circumstances, who, having "broken the bank, 1 ' returns to Paris to divide tho profits among fellow-countrymen who had subscribed to the original stake. When Joi.n Bennett, in the role of a cabaret singer, sets out to lure him back to Monte Carlo, at the behest of the gambling syndicate, the action takes on an even more interesting aspect. Miss Bennett makes a charming decov and Colman a willing, if unsuspecting victim. Before the plot culminates the story develops into as gripping and romantic an episode as the most exacting could desire. Miss Bennett plays her part perfectly and matches Colman's suavity with dignity and poise. Tho work of these two alone is sufficient to make a film that is immensely enjoyable, but the success of the piece is due also to the efforts of a strong cast of supporting players, notably Colin. Clive, Nigel Bruce and Montagu Love. The outstanding feature of the preliminary programme is the record of the international Rugby match between the All Blacks and England. The film shows how the whole of England's thirteen points were compiled and reveals how decisive the victory gctually was. Prince Obolensky's remarkable diagonal dash for his second try stands out as one of the highlights and even the flight of the ball when Cranmer dropped a goal can be clearly followed. In addition to the newsreel items there is an interesting film of insect life and a diverting comedy "The Big Squeal" by Andy Clyde. The Civic Orchestra plays bright excerpts from "No, No, Nanette," at the interval.

STRAND THEATRE The continued popularity with Auckland audiences of Shirley Temple has made possible a third week s screening in the city of her latest production, "The Littlest Rebel." Heading a fine programme at the Strand lheatre, "The Littlest Rebel," a dramatic tale set during the Civil War in America, has been widely acclaimed as the most satisfying of all Shirley Temple productions. Karen Morley appears es the child's mother and her beautiful period gowns should be of interest, while Jack Holt and John Boles also have important parts. Bill Robinson, the negro tap dancer, appears in dancing scenes with Shirley Temple. STATE THEATRE Two players with an undoubted flair for light sophisticated roles, Clark Gable and Constance Bennett, are given full scope for their talents in After Office Hours," at tho State lheatre. "The Gay Divorcee," in which Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire appear, completes an outstanding programme. MAYFAIR THEATRE One of the most popular comedians on the modern screen, Eddie Cantor, is seen at his best in "Kid Millions, which heads the programme being screened at the May fair lhoatie. lbore is' a particularly fine supporting programme, including a Walt Disney cartoon. There will be a special children s matinee to-clay. RIALTO THEATRE Grade Fields is seen in a characteristic role in "Look Up and Laugh the first of the two full-length films being presented at tho Rialto .Theatre. One of Zane Grey's exciting novels West of tho Pecos" has been well adapted to the screen and is the second attraction. BRITANNIA THEATRE Ginger Rogers and Frances Lederer have the leading roles in "Romance in Manhattan," the new attraction at the Britannia Theatre. The second picture on the programme is "Tho Healer, with Ralph Bellamy and Karen Morley.

STATE THEATRE, ONEHUNGA Joe E. Brown appears in "Alibi Ike," tho first film being presented at the State Theatre, Onehunga. "The Last Days of Pompeii," one of the finest films for many years, also is being shown. TUDOR CINEMA "One New York Night," a. gay American comedy in which that delightful actress Una Merkel makes a, further screen appearance, is the current attraction at the Tudor Cinema. Franchot Tone also is in the cast.

REGENT THEATRE I An outstanding production, "The Last Outpost," opened what should be a very successful season at the Regent Theatre yesterday. Skilful production by Lloyd Sheldon is apparent from the openiug scene, where Gary Grant, com' mander of a British armoured car base in Northern India, is taken captive to a native outpost, to the final scene, where a military burial amid the desert sands of the Soudan ends the career of a brave and resourceful man. In many-ways the film is reminiscent of "The Lives of a Bengal Lancer." Many scenes arc set amid the mountainous country on the Indian frontier, where the herculean task of shepherding a native tribe with its goods and cattle over a formidable mountain range is accomplished by two British officers (Grant and Claude Rains). The storming of a fort by the hillsmen and their reprisal by machine-gun fire makes another stirring episode, while the negotiation of a llood-swollen river by the natives on their rafts made from inflated pig bkins is shown. The story switches then to Cairo, where Grant recovers from a leg injury to find himself deeply attached to one of the hospital nurses. Ho learns of her marriage to a man, now missing, in the first few days of the war. He is relieved to learn of his transfer on active service to the Soudan and there hand-to-hand conflict with the enemy forces keeps him occupied. It is when Grant finds himself in diro peril in an outlying fort that the missing husband appears in the person of Grant's companion in his Indian exploits. What promises to be a bitter personal conflict here is turned aside by a native attack. The defending forces, after fierce skirmishes with the enemy, steai out from the fort during tho night and tho story fittingly closes with their rescue b3 r a relieving force. Tho actual story depends for its success largely on the performances of Carv Grant, Claudo Rains and Gertrude Michael. Grant, as the representative British officer, is fully the equal of Cooper in "Bengal Lancer" and his lighter, less serious nature, with an eyo to tho humour in every situation, is thrown up the more vividly by contrast with tho sober portrayal oi' Rains. Tho latter, as the secret service intelligence officer to whose resource and courage there is no limit, gives a high-class performance. Gertrude Michael provides the romantic element. The skilful tactics of both sides and the brilliance of Prince Obolensky iu the football match between the All Blacks and are shown in one of the excellent supporting pictures. A selection of English melodies, including "Land of Hope and Glory," is presented by the Regent Orchestra.

ROXY AND TIVOLI THEATRES An entertaining double-feature programme continues to attract large audiences to the Roxy and Tivoli Theatres. Jt is headed by a thrilling action film, "Police Car, Number 17," and _ a tense drama, "Whispering Smith Speaks." The former film, which is having its first Dominion screening, deals largely with modern developments in the United States police system. The film obviously has unlimited opportunities for the skilful producer and it lias long been realised that the conflict between the brains of the law and the criminals makes a very definite appeal to the filmgoer of to-day. There are many spectacular scenes of thrilling battles with gangsters and the picture provides splendid entertainment for people of all ages. Cast as tho heroic police official, Tim McCoy gives a splendid performance than should enhance his already enviable reputation. Formerly appearing only in "wild West" films, McCoy has beeu seen recently in a number of ordinary dramas and has displayed outstanding ability. George O'Brien, always an immensely popular performer, has the main role in "Whispering Smith Speaks," the second picture. Unusual in plot and treatment, the film is one of the best of its type to have been shown locally.

CRYSTAL PALACE THEATRE Two of tho outstanding players on the screen, Robert Montgomery and Joan Crawford, are the principals of "No More Ladies," which heads the well-varied programme being presented at the Crystal Palace Theatre. The theme is a powerful one and there is a large supporting cast. There is an excellent associate programme, including a Charlie Chase comedy and a Pete Smith oddity. "Whirlwind" will _be screened at a special children's matinee to-day.

SUNDAY PICTURES A tense and gripping spy drama, "The W Plan " heads the programme to be presented at the Strand Theatre to-morrow night. Prior to the picture programme, ilr. A. L. M. Hall will give a lecture entitled " Among the Mongol Nomads." . " Radio Pirates," a musical film or a novel type, will be the principal attraction on the Sunday night programme at the Rialto Theatre. During the film, many popular numbers arf rendered by Roy Fox and his famous band, and there are a number of the ever-popular " hill-billy " tunes. REGAL THEATRE "Thanks a Million" (Dick Powell and Ann Dvorak) is the first film being shown at the Regal Theatre. "Marry the Girl" is the second attraction. PRINCESS THEATRE The late Will Rogers gives a sparkling portrayal in the leading role of "In Old Kentucky," which heads the programme being presented at the Princess Theatre. "Storm Over the Andes" also is being shown. CAPITOL THEATRE One of the finest of all Dickens' works, "David Copperfield" has been faithfullv adapted to the screen and heads the current programme at the Capitol Theatre. The film has a distinguished cast, including Lionel Barrymore, Madge Evans and Maureen O'Sullivan. STRAND THEATRE. ONEHUNGA "The Glass Key," a thrilling mystery drama, will be shown to-night at the Strand Theatre, Oiiehunga. The second picture is "A Night at the Ritz," with William Gargan. VICTORIA THEATRE Fred Perry's wife, Helen Vinson, makes a further screen appearance in "Ago of Indiscretion," an appealing modern film that will be shown to-day at the Victoria Theatre.