REGENT THEATRE FILM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23071, 23 June 1938, Page 18

REGENT THEATRE FILM

CLEVER MODERN COMEDY. Few films contain such an abundance of humour as the briLliant production "Bluebeard's Eighth .Wife," which will commence a season at the Regent Theatre to-morrow. Although the play of the same name won wide popularity about 12 years ago, tho present version, under tho directorship of Ernst Lubitsch, has-been considerably changed to suit tho needs of the screen. This production provides an excellent vehicle for tho talents of the leading players, Gary Cooper and Claudette Colbert. Cooper has a role rather similar to that which he played in the successful film "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town," and once again his versa-, ■tility in portraying widely varying characters is clearly shown. In this picture ho appears as a much-marricd American millionaire who f-ieeks to make a charming- French girl, portrayed by Miss Colbert, his eighth 'wife. Unfortunately his latest choice doe& not wish to be merely an addition to his matrimonial adventures and sets out, to prove tbat she does not intend to be divorced at his slightest whim. The modern "Bluebeard" becomes so dejected that he has to retire to a sanatorium, but his troubles are not over, as Miss Colbert purchases the health institution. It is essentially a smart comedy, with witty dialogue and many hilarious situations. Ed ward Everett Horton is responsible for a fine performance as the impecunious | and impudent father of the eighth wife, while David Niven gives one of his best portrayals as Cooper's rival for Miss Colbert's affections.